Define the Problem
In this project, I will be working with Autodesk Inventor to create a model Formula 1 car. First, I will follow instructions to build the car body and assemble the car, then I will make modifications in order to make the car more aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing. The car itself must be more than 170 mm in length but cannot exceed 210 mm. The goals of this project include re-familiarizing myself with the Inventor program, learning more about how to create different aerodynamic features and why they work, and having fun.
Generate Concepts
Brainstorming list: ramped front, sporty wing, lightening bolts, "barge boards", tesla/electric car themed, ravens themed, ferrari themed, beach themed: front and sides shaped like waves, add a driver or seat, mirrors, exhaust pipes, music themed
Decision Matrix - I decided to make a decision matrix in order to select a theme; I knew that I would include all of the best aerodynamic features for any build that I decided on, so the major change for each would be the theme
Develop the Solution
Final Design
Dimensions
Degrees of Freedom
Construct and Test the Prototype
Present the Solution
Conclusion: I enjoyed this project, and I didn't feel like I forgot much about Inventor, except for creating the drawing files for some reason. It was a little upsetting at first when my original file corrupted after I had spent probably 4 hours of time on it (which I know was more than I should have), but these things happen and there is nothing else to do but start working again. Of course, the edits I made with the Freeform would never be the same but I had gained a lot of experience working with the Freeform tool, so I was able to create an even cooler design. I spent a lot of time looking at pictures of F1 cars online and I watched a video about aerodynamics and downforce. I then used these observations to guide me in my design of the car body and the wings. The Freeform tool was really fun to work with; while it was strange at first, I got the hang of it and got to the point where I could avoid the program giving errors. I wish that we had known about this tool back when we did projects like the Yard-Art or Good Car projects, because it would have been really useful in making organic shapes. I was also able to mess around with adding decals, which ended up being harder than I thought it would, and I was only able to put a lightning bolt on one side of the car. I added small Tesla logo on the front by extruding a sketch that I made on an angled plane, which actually turned out pretty nice, even though it could have been bigger. I think that overall my car turned out pretty nice, even though it did take a lot of time to modify.