The aim of the module is to assess aspects of vehicle chassis design with particular emphasis on body structure design, giving consideration to external styling, packaging, vehicle interior design and vehicle safety.
It will provide the student with a basic understanding of the dynamics of vehicle systems affecting vehicle handling, leading to the development and application of analytical models and commercial software tools, and to the design of vehicle systems
SYLLABUS
Chassis design and packaging:
Vehicle body styling and aerodynamics
Packaging trends – common platform for different body styles
Power unit configurations
Ergonomics, seating and Instrument panels
Vehicle safety systems – safety under impact,occupant protection/restraint, legislation etc.
Body trim and fittings, electrical & electronic controls
Packaging for weight distribution and dynamic stability
Analysis of vehicle handling:
Vehicle handling models
Steady state response
Transient response to steering inputs
Vehicle stability and design considerations
Application of commercial tools: MATLAB, SIMULINK, CARSIM etc.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of the overall procedure for designing, manufacturing and testing of vehicles.
Demonstrate a wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of the human element involved in vehicle design including anthropometric data and vehicle safety standards.
Demonstrate a wide knowledge of and critically evaluate current chassis designs, suspension systems and wheels/tyres and how they affect vehicle performance and handling.
Demonstrate a wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of powertrain requirements including current and future trends in vehicle design.
Demonstrate knowledge of and critically evaluate current and future requirements for automation of vehicle systems.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of validation and verification procedures for development of vehicles.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the use of computer software in the vehicle design process.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how the various aspects of car design relate to each other. i.e. human, powertrain, chassis, testing program.
Assessment
33362-01 : Module Mark : Mixed (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
100% continuous assessment, comprising of a group project (20%) presentation, (80%) report
Reassessment:
Module needs to be repeated in full in the next available session.
