Vehicles
Design Philosophy | Concept | Light Weight | Merchantability
Light Weight
As for the lightweight solution, we have conducted FEM Analysis and checked the reliability of the car by conducting test drives, to aim for a lighter car. This year, we have managed to reduce 11% of the weight from last year. These are the main parts that we have lightened:
Frame
The frame we ued last year had too much ridigity. This year, we used FEM analysis and selected the members of framework that we need, and optimized it to a framelayout that has high ridigity. By doing these things, we were able to lighten the frame.
Unspring weight
We changed the width of the tire from 7 inch to 6 inch. Along with that change, we changed the width of the wheel from 7inch to 5.5 inch. We also needed to change and lighten the upright, hub, and brake rotor to adapt to thoese changes, and as aresult, we have managed to lighten the car by a large amount.
Steering System
By making the steering gear box by ourselves, we have managed to lighten its weight by 55% from last year (from 1580g to 710g).
Power-train
By using FEM analysis to change the differential gear box, and by optimizing the amount of def oil, we were able to lighten the weight by 10%. Also by revising the design of the power system and re-calculating the appropriate drive power, we were able to change the diameter of the drive shaft.
Cowl
By using epoxide resin, the specific strength enhanced, and so it was possible to make a cowl woth same weight but with more strength. Moreover, as for the front cowl, we accomplished reduction of 1kg by optimizing the members that we use.
Vehicles
Design Philosophy | Concept | Light Weight | Merchantability
