Implications

• GT power modeling

GT Power was originally going to be used to derive important geometrical parameters such as plenum and runner complete shape and size, and verify which geometry would have performed better in terms of peak power, and peak and average torque. This information would have been critical for the design and modeling phase of our project were different iterations of the CAD models were created. However, due to technical problems related to server that had the software, this resource was not completely available to our team.

-- Future FSAE teams, specially Panther Motorsports will have access to this data and design and can use it for the competitions to come and if needed they can use this design as a start point and improve from it. For example, the GT power model could be useful for the exhaust team.

• Flow bench testing for further validations

Performing a flow bench test would have been considered ideal to test the various intakes, and validate the results shown by Ansys Fluent for the mass flow rate and the velocity. Unfortunately, due to time constraints and limitations of the resources available to us, our was not able to perform this type of testing.

Since this testing method is really important when it comes to testing the flow capabilities of various engine components with air flowing in it, and it is a necessary process to perform if having a high performance engine is the main goal. So to further improve and validate our intake manifold design a flow bench experimentation can be performed.

• Based on the data we obtained, future FSAE members can modified the intake manifold based on performance desired for the specific competition dynamics events.

Current FSAE team has an optimal design to take to competition. In addition, we designed a modular intake ecosystem that can be adapted based on the characteristics and objectives for the performance desired. From our understanding and validation testing, we can analyze what specific engine attributes are ideal based on the physical characteristics that need to be changed:

- Runner lengths --> showed a correlation between rpm of torque and power

- Plenum volume --> showed a correlation between throttle response and transient airflow

Further specific areas in the power band can be maximized based on Helmholtz Resonance Theory with runner lengths and runner cross-sectional areas.

• Manufacturing improvements - 3D Printing

All of our prints were done in Fused Deposition Modeling which caused an extra step in manufacturing of having to seal every intake, with our understanding of 3D printing. A better option would of been to go with SLS Printing.

SLS builds with a CO₂ laser that melts cross-sections of a CAD design in powdered material. Which in return creates an air tight design, replacing the manufacturing step of having to epoxy resin the intake design.