This project covered the chassis optimization of a Formula Student vehicle to be lighter than the previous year while conforming the location of the components and resisting the stress due to the cornering, fatigue and heat of the elements. The chassis must provide high performance in terms of acceleration, braking and handling attributes. The project must prove sustainability awareness both for gaining points for the competition and for reducing the negative impact on the environment. To meet these aims, the design process followed Stuart Pugh’s methodologies. In accordance to this, the product was developed using the Total Design methodology and the different options were evaluated through Decision-matrix method. The design process started then determining the Product Design Specification, derived from the Formula Student 2015 Rules and the chassis aims. According to the PDS a large variety of chassis designs were created and appraised until the Concept Design was reached. This was visualized using Computer Aided Design techniques and building it in plastic. It was compared with the previous year model and re-designed until the Detailed Design was achieved. The final design was analysed by a Finite Element Analysis programme. The desired outcomes of the analysis were proving that the Product Design Specification was met and providing useful conclusions and further information for future designs.
