MATERIALS, DATA-AQ PACKAGES AMONG DESIGN CHOICES TOUTED IN COLLEGIATE CUP CONTEST

Central Michigan's Baja team, which did some impressive materials analyses, takes home the SAE Mid-Michigan Section's trophy as part of that professional group's Engineers Week activities.

The SAE International Mid-Michigan Section held its Engineers Week Banquet on Feb. 19, hosting eight local SAE Collegiate Design Series teams. Students from Central Michigan University, Kettering University, Saginaw Valley State University, and the University of Michigan- Flint presented the highlights of their 2014 seasons and plans for the upcoming year.

The SVSU Formula team's first decision for this year was whether to carry over last year's successful frame design or completely redesign the vehicle. Cardinal Formula Racing decided on a combination of 2014 carryover and new elements for the 2015 car, with major changes happening in the suspension. One big change that should pay off immediately is a three-bolt pattern for the lug nuts instead of one central lug. Alex Fullerton said that the three-bolt approach already has helped with serviceability issues. Another change to combat 2014 issues is a modular approach to the electrical system. Lock nuts are used on every electrical connection to create more robust attachments and make the electrical system less sensitive to vibration.