California State University, Fullerton’s Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) chapter chose Q-PLUS Labs to aid them with the challenge to compete in the Formula SAE, a competition which encompasses designing, building, and competing a mini-formula style race car that will be evaluated for its potential as a production item.
Introduction
Fullerton’s SAE uses a Yamaha R6 Motorcycle engine, a large displacement choice for the 610cc class. The car’s design utilizes the R6 engine as a stressed member to connect the drivetrain to the cockpit. This type of engine design requires the chassis to work with the engine as an active structural element of the chassis to transmit forces and torques, rather than using standard anti-vibration mounts to passively contain it. The R6 engine was chosen based off its high power output and ability to be used as a stressed member. In conjunction with suspension design and tire selection, the engine weight works well to keel the tires while heated under the track’s conditions.
Our Process
Because the race car’s design is based on the integrity and precision accuracy of the engine’s measurements, Fullerton’s SAE sought the expertise of Q-PLUS Labs’ dimensional inspection engineers. Using a Faro Arm CMM, Q-PLUS Labs provided a dimensional analysis of each mounting point for the engine. These points are integral not only to the race car’s design but also to the safety of the driver.
Given the engine’s exact 3D measurements, Fullerton’s SAE could confidently proceed with their design. They were able to retrofit and reverse engineer the chassis to properly fit onto the race car’s engine. Currently in the manufacturing stage process, in a few months they will produce the assembled chassis to compete in the Formula SAE® Lincoln this June.
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