Final Assessment – Portfolio 100%

One project based case study to cover all learning outcomes
Design and development of an Aerodynamics Package
Evidence may include written reports, video and audio evidence and software data files equivalent to 5000 words. Learning outcomes 1-4.

A race vehicle’s handling and stability can be greatly improved by the addition of Aerodynamic devices. This module develops your mathematical and analytical skills to enable you to design and develop aero packages for specific race vehicles. You will have the opportunity to design, test and analyse through computational fluid dynamics appropriate devices ensuring you can solve complex industry problems.

You will study principles and formulae, frontal and plan view bodywork area, track influences on frontal area and geometric shapes and their influence on air stream, laminar flows and turbulence.
One key area of study is down-force and drag and you will cover drag and required engine power, down-force versus ride height, drag versus ride height, aerodynamic efficiency and car balance.
You will consider the range of aero device and packages including splitters, diffusers, wings, end plates, dive planes and ground effect influenced by floor design.
Finally you will study the design of a full race-car body and aerodynamic package using mathematical formulae and CAD modelling, developed to a specific set of race rules and regulations. This will involve testing and interpreting CFD and Wind tunnel results and the development of original concepts and analysis of improvements.

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

*Anderson, J.D. (2010) Fundamentals of Aerodynamics. 5th ed. Maidenhead: McGraw Hill Higher Education.
Barnard, R. H. (2010) Road Vehicle Aerodynamic Design: An Introduction. 3rd ed. St. Albans: MechAero Publishing.
*Bertin, J.J., Cummings, R.M. and Venkata Reddy, P., (2014) Aerodynamics for engineers. Harlow: Pearson.
Katz, J. (2006) Race Car Aerodynamics: Designing for Speed. Cambridge: Robert Bentley Publishing.
*McBeath, S. (2011) Competition Car Downforce: A Practical Handbook. 2nd ed. Yeovil: Haynes Publishing Ltd.
*Core texts, select at least one

1) Determine and apply fluid flow theory. (Application, Knowledge and Understanding).
2) Apply lift, drag and down force definitions and calculations. (Application, Knowledge and Understanding).
3) Research and apply aerodynamic applications. (Application, Enquiry).
4) Carry out an aerodynamic design case study interpreting aerodynamic cfd results and report findings. (Application, Enquiry, Knowledge and Understanding, Communication).