Final Assessment – Portfolio 100%

Assignment to show understanding of longitudinal and lateral weight transfer and the ability to utilise appropriate software and interpret the data. Word count 4500 plus mathematical calculations. Learning outcomes 1-4.

This module teaches the fundamentals of longitudinal and lateral vehicle dynamics, suspension systems, tyre modelling and race car set-up enabling you to determine vehicle interaction with circuit and driver. You will be taught industry standard data logging techniques and software as utilised by race engineers allowing you to directly correlate vehicle physics with measured vehicle handling behaviour

1.Vehicle Dynamics
This section considers the application and uses of vehicle dynamics within the Automotive industry. You will study analysis of vehicle dynamics, steering, roll and roll movement distribution and there is an introduction to suspension design. This will include major suspension functions, design concepts and key design metrics in addition to major influences of suspension design on ride and handling. The module will review the relative merits of simple and complex modelling strategies in vehicle dynamics and the links between them, tyre modeling including Pacejka model and linear tyre models and sensitivity analysis of both mathematical models.

2. Data Acquisition
You will explore how to acquire data from different sources including Driver's feedback, car and engine data logged information, time keepers (and sector times) and engineers reports.
Also weights, fuel, fuel consumption, tyres, tyre pressures, tyre temperature, track temperature and set-up changes.

Evaluation of performance:
You will use the analysis of data collected to determine recommended actions to improve performance. Performance reporting includes the presentation and explanation of decisions made due to review of data. You will study the use of Motec, Pi Systems and Aim data software and set up of workbooks, data engineers’ techniques and analysis of data to identify vehicle performance. You will also determine vehicle geometry changes from analysed data.

Delivery is by distance learning with a comprehensive resource handbook on the VLE and available to download containing topic information, example questions and email and telephone support being available through our online VLE known as the Virtual Learning Studio (VLS), individual tutorials and student forum. Specialist knowledge will be delivered by staff through video input. Study is by independent learning with tutor support of approximately 6 hours per module but students may access tutors whenever they choose within the working week 9-5 BST.

Computer with fast broadband connection
Range of resources located on the VLS
Library Services through Sconul access or e books

*Blundell, M. and Harty, D., (2014) Multibody Systems Approach to Vehicle Dynamics. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.
Evans, M.S., (2002) Tyre Compounding for Improved Performance. Shrewsbury: iSmithers Rapra Publishing.
Happian-Smith, J. (2001) An Introduction to Modern Vehicle Design. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.
Harrison, M., (2004) Vehicle Refinement: Controlling Noise and Vibration in Road Vehicles. Oxford: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann.
*McBeath, S. (2008) Competition Car Data Logging: A Practical Handbook; 2nd Ed. Sparkford: Haynes Publishing.
*Pacejka, H.B., (2012) Tire and Vehicle Dynamics. Oxford: Elsevier : Butterworth-Heinemann.
*Core texts, select at least one

1) Show a systematic understanding of vehicle dynamic isolation and control techniques and the ability to examine vehicle dynamic systems. (Reflection, Analysis).
2) Employ accurately established techniques applicable to vehicle dynamic studies. (Enquiry, Communication).
3) Identify and evaluate the differences between alternative data streams collected from a vehicle.(Knowledge and Understanding).
4) Evaluate data and make decisions on vehicle handling, communicating corrective information effectively. (Analysis, Communication).