Instead of creating an automotive
component based on the previous
version of a similar one, engineers
tell the generative design tool how
strong the part should be, how much it
should weigh, how much force it must
withstand, and what material it should
consist of. Generative design uses AI
to rapidly create numerous variants,
‘learning’ from each iteration.
The potential for these
technologies in automotive
manufacturing is already being
tested, which can act as a major
learning curve for motorsport
manufacturers. General Motors (GM)
is using generative design to promote
lightweighting and simplify supply
chains to reduce the cost of making
electric and autonomous vehicles. In
a recent collaboration with Autodesk,
GM engineers designed a new,
functionally optimised seat bracket.
This standard auto part, which
secures seat-belt fasteners to seats
and seats to floors, typically features
a boxy design made up of eight
separate pieces. Using generative
design software, GM came up with
more than 150 alternatives. The one
the team chose is made from a single
piece of stainless steel and is 40%
lighter and 20% stronger than its
predecessor. Applying this concept
to the motorsport industry across
hundreds or thousands of parts
can go a long way toward making
vehicles less expensive, lighter and
more fuel-efficient.
While 3D printed F1 cars
may sound farfetched, emerging
technologies and environmental
requirements may make them a
reality. Depending on the vehicle,
3D printing can be used to produce
lightweight components, personalised
components for mass customisation
and on-demand prototypes for
generatively designed parts.
Another consideration for
investing in new tech is the
environmental impact of the sport.
Vehicle lightweighting, which
can be achieved using additive
manufacturing techniques, gives
vehicle manufacturers a proven
way to improve fuel economy by
replacing components with a variety
of lightweight materials, including
aluminium, magnesium, highstrength
steel, plastics, and carbon
fibre. Reducing the weight of a vehicle
even by 10% typically delivers a 6 to
7% increase in overall fuel economy.
Advanced manufacturing and
the adoption of new technologies
including AI, ML, generative design
and 3D printing within motorsport
does not have one set path.
Implementations will vary between
sports, whether that’s F1 or MotoGP,
as each organisation chooses
investments that will provide the
greatest competitive advantage to
them. What is clear, however, is that
the sport is changing, and it’s time
to take these technologies for a test
drive. !
E Series FRL
Filter Regulator Lubricator
Easy assembly, durable design, high flow
FEATURES
Modular, robust design
Manual/semi/automatic drain
Port size options 1/8” – 1”
Reliable and energy saving
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The E Series FRL design is a reliable,
robust, modular construction which is
easy to assemble. Advancements to the
construction of the regulator mechanism
has given extra sensitivity on the control.
This helps to ensure the system is working
to the optimum pressure. It can be supplied
as units fully assembled, or we offer users
the ability to assemble their own bespoke
modular units with the use of connectors
and wall mounting kits. All units 100%
pressure tested and inspected. For more
information contact Tom Parker Ltd.
BENEFITS
Higher flow rates
Simple assembly &
maintenance
Reduced downtime
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visit us
STAND
H142
PPMA SHOW
1-3 OCT 2019
NEC BIRMINGHAM
Sales: 01772 255109
Online: tom-parker.co.uk
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