The problem
One of the most critical stages in the development of a racing car is passing the FIA homologation tests for the carbon fiber monocoque. Failure to meet the homologation requirements means the vehicle structure must be redesigned, otherwise the car cannot compete. This results in project delays and significantly higher costs due to the need to manufacture and certify a new prototype.
The challenge
The objective of the project is to improve the mechanical performance of the monocoque by increasing stiffness and reducing weight, while simultaneously meeting passive safety requirements such as crashworthiness and intrusion resistance. This is achieved by virtually reproducing the FIA homologation tests through a Virtual Testing approach.
Using advanced finite element modeling, implicit structural solvers for stiffness analysis, and explicit solvers for intrusion, crash, and progressive damage simulation of composite laminates, it is possible to accurately replicate the same loading conditions that the monocoque will experience during the official FIA homologation tests.
Our contribution
SmartCAE has contributed to the development of numerous racing vehicles by virtually simulating composite monocoque homologation tests across a wide range of motorsport categories, including Formula 1, Formula 3, Formula 4, and GT Le Mans.
In these projects, we work in close collaboration with both the vehicle design team and the composite manufacturing suppliers. This close integration is essential to develop laminate configurations that not only satisfy homologation requirements but can also be reliably manufactured using the customer’s production processes.
Our activities also include coordinating the experimental testing program, from material coupon testing to determine the mechanical properties of composite laminates, through to full-scale intrusion and crash tests of the monocoque at certified homologation facilities.
Benefits for the client
SmartCAE’s more than twenty years of experience in the design and simulation of composite structures, combined with an in-depth understanding of carbon fiber monocoque manufacturing, enables us to provide our customers with a single, highly qualified engineering partner capable of supporting them throughout the homologation process.
This integrated approach allows our customers to significantly shorten development times and reduce costs by dramatically minimizing the number of physical prototypes and tests required to achieve FIA homologation.
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