Formula SAE is an international collegiate competition that challenges students to design, develop and competitively race a Formula-style race car. All participating university clubs are provided with real-world automotive engineering experience all the way from design and development to financing, manufacturing and marketing.
Recognizes Formula SAE as an opportunity
The University of Connecticut’s School of Engineering has had a Formula SAE team since 2009. They recognize the event as an opportunity for its members to learn and improve through hands-on experience.
What are their challenge and how 3D Systems helps them?
Challenge:
From the trial and error of previous competition years, the UConn team realized they could use a 3D CAD model of their engine as a stepping stone to a better, more efficient design. All they needed was the 3D data, but it simply wasn’t available.
Solution:
After researching 3D scanning specialists in their area, the team reached out to Bolton Works for help reverse engineering an accurate engine model. Using 3D Systems’ Geomagic Wrap®software, Bolton Works imported 3D scans of individual engine components before using Geomagic Design™ X to create feature-based solid CAD parts that were then transferred automatically into SOLIDWORKS MCAD software. Once the final 3D CAD assembly was complete, the team was able to tailor their design like never before.
Results:
- Able to create a much more intricate intake mount that interfaced with the engine.
- Able to design a racecar frame around the engine for the first time