Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics
The Brief
"Explore whether an aluminium bicycle seat post can be competitive in a market becoming dominated by lightweight carbon fibre models."
FEA
Using surfacing techniques on Solidworks, the seat post was modelled to an unrefined specification.
The Solidworks FEA plug-in was then used for refinement to leave an optimal strength to weight ratio.
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Validation of the software was achieved using hand calculations and comparing the results to a computational analysis on a simple bar.
CFD
The Solidworks flow plug-in was then used to test the aerodynamic performance of the aerofoil shape designed.
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This was compared to an existing seat post with a round cross section with analysis showing a smaller region of low pressure, thus reducing the pressure drag.
Skills Used and Gained
Solidworks - Surface modelling, FEA plug-in, CFD plug-in;
Analysis of results and feedback;
Report writing.