Chassis Torsional Testing for UK Based Teams

[Dunc]

If any FS / SAE teams are looking to test the torsional properties of their chassis then we could be of help to YOU !! We (Cardiff Uni) have built a test rig for analysis of the torsional properties of a chassis and measurement of chassis stiffness. The rig attaches to the chassis through the wheel hubs (standard ford 4-bolt) and applies the torsional load along the centre line of the vehicle using a hydraulic jack with a load cell. The rig adjustability will allow it to accommodate any car within the following dimensions: Wheel base 1400 – 2100mm, Track width 1000 - 1600mm. Deflection measurements can be taken using dial gauges or motion capture techniques from which overall stiffness and chassis-only stiffness values can be calculated.

If anyone is interested or would like more information then please e-mail me at Duncan@dmanning.co.uk (please be sure to make it very clear in the subject bar that it is to do with Formula Student).

[Dunc]

If any FS / SAE teams are looking to test the torsional properties of their chassis then we could be of help to YOU !! We (Cardiff Uni) have built a test rig for analysis of the torsional properties of a chassis and measurement of chassis stiffness. The rig attaches to the chassis through the wheel hubs (standard ford 4-bolt) and applies the torsional load along the centre line of the vehicle using a hydraulic jack with a load cell. The rig adjustability will allow it to accommodate any car within the following dimensions: Wheel base 1400 – 2100mm, Track width 1000 - 1600mm. Deflection measurements can be taken using dial gauges or motion capture techniques from which overall stiffness and chassis-only stiffness values can be calculated.

If anyone is interested or would like more information then please e-mail me at Duncan@dmanning.co.uk (please be sure to make it very clear in the subject bar that it is to do with Formula Student).

[JonBoy]

yah, we made up one of those.. (pretty rough, but it works)...its pretty trippy just how much you can bend these babies till something breaks http://fsae.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif if any teams are floating around brisvegas we can gladly test there car for 'em

when you say chassis only stiffness, are you only measuring vertical pickup point displacement, as compaired to overall rotation?

cheers

[Dunc]

That depends really on the measurement method used (motion analysis or dial gauges).

In general though, if the overall rotation is measured and the rotation at both the front and rear suspension pick up points is also measured then the twist accountable for by the suspension can be subtracted from the overall twist to find the 'Chassis only' stiffness.