Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc

Cranfield University

As an introductory non-assessed module it sets the scene for both the Advanced Motorsport Engineering and Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc courses, providing the context for motorsport engineering and mechatronics in relation to the sport and the industry behind it.

Provides an understanding of the electronic and data acquisition systems that are integral to the modern motorsport vehicle. Appreciation of principles of data acquisition to “get good data” on track or in test environments. Provides methodologies for the analysis and interpretation of the data acquired, and how this underpins all performance optimisation.

To provide you with fundamental information on vehicle dynamics focussing on limit behaviour with explanations and derivations from first principles, using simplified physical models. To provide experience of a computer based dynamics simulation package of industrial standard, and to provide experimental exercises to illustrate major physical concepts.

To provide you with a series of learning activities during which you will acquire an understanding of the engineering principles on which engine design and development depend. Some activities will be classroom based, some reliant on group work and some requiring active learning by the student. The course aims to encourage you to acquire skills in information gathering, the processing of information, analysis and communication and these skills will be tested by written assignments.

To provide you with a series of learning activities during which they will acquire an understanding of how to apply management techniques to the context of motorsport and thus building an awareness of the specific management challenges faced in this sector. The course aims to encourage you to acquire skills in information gathering, the processing of information, analysis and communication and these skills will be evaluated and assessed by group presentation and by written group assignment.

To provide a fundamental understanding of physical modelling applied to vehicles mechatronic systems, To introduce you to modelling techniques, from basic methodology to graphical modelling and practical viewpoints, To illustrate the role of first principle and data-driven modelling.

To provide knowledge of advanced control engineering theory and techniques and their application to automotive control, To introduce you to the tools and methodology associated with multivariable control design techniques, To provide you with practical experience in designing and simulating advanced modern controllers within the context of multi-domain automotive systems.

Within the context of modern automotive control system, the aim of this module is for you to critically evaluate the different technologies and methods required for the efficient vehicle implementation, validation and verification of the automotive mechatronic system.

The aim of this module is to cover a range of applications of Control Theory and Artificial Intelligence techniques in different components of a modern vehicle including engines, electric motors, energy storage, steering, chassis, suspensions, advanced driver-assistance systems, etc.