DESIGN OF TUBULAR SPACE FRAME FOR FORMULA STUDENT RACE CAR

Objective of this research was to design tubular space frame which satisfies rules defined by Formula student competition. Features of designed frame were clearly specified. Low weight and high amount of torsional stiffness were basic monitored parameters. Usage of CAD software with interconnection of FEM methods leads to design of unique tubular space frame. CAD software was used for design of basic shapes of the frame and FEM method software was used for calculation of torsional stiffness. Each step in frame design was tested by this way. Also package of reinforcements was developed. Their locations were found through FEM analysis of torsional stiffness. In comparison with frame which was used in Dragon 1 race car new evolution of frame had higher amount of total and sub-region torsional stiffness. Another part of whole research was tubular space frame production. Specific methods were used, for example laser cutting of pipes endings. This technological process brings higher manufacturer precision. Also TIG method for lowering of heat-affected zone was used. Finally designed and manufactured tubular space frame was used in Dragon 2 race car.