As the Design Engineer for our team, Soham Upadhye has the crucial role of bringing together creativity, precision, and analytical skills to create a cutting-edge F1 car model. The process of designing an innovative F1 in Schools car is a thrilling journey that blends the art of engineering with the science of performance optimization.
The main challenge lies in balancing multiple factors—speed, efficiency, and stability—while adhering to the strict regulations of the competition. Every element of the car, from the body shape to the placement of the wheels, must be thoughtfully engineered to minimize air resistance and maximize speed. Aerodynamics, which directly impacts how the car interacts with air flow during the race, is one of the most critical aspects that Soham and the team focus on. The design must be efficient, reducing drag to increase acceleration, while also maintaining the car's stability to ensure a smooth and controlled race.
One of the most exciting aspects of Soham's role is testing new design concepts. In a highly competitive environment like F1 in Schools, it’s important to stay ahead of the curve. With every new idea comes the possibility of a breakthrough or a refined design that could provide a competitive edge. The team uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to visualize airflow patterns around the car, helping identify areas where drag can be reduced and downforce can be increased. These simulations allow for rapid testing of design changes without the need for physical prototypes, making it possible to iterate and optimize the car at a faster pace.
The true thrill of the job is in the iterative process—refining and improving the car based on data gathered from simulations and track tests. Each refinement brings incremental improvements in the car’s performance, and every gain, no matter how small, is a step closer to achieving the perfect design.
The journey is a mix of technical problem-solving and creative thinking. It’s not just about making the car go fast but also ensuring that it adheres to the F1 in Schools regulations while looking sleek and visually appealing. There’s also the added challenge of teamwork and collaboration. As the Design Engineer, Soham works closely with other members of the team, including the Manufacturing, Marketing, and Team Management departments, to ensure that the final product not only performs well on the track but also reflects the team’s vision and goals.
In the end, the process of pushing the boundaries of engineering is what makes it all so rewarding. Taking a concept, refining it through simulations and testing, and finally seeing it come to life as a high-performance car ready for competition is a moment of immense satisfaction. For Soham and the Lightning Demons team, it's not just about the car itself; it's about pushing their limits, learning new techniques, and making every race an opportunity to showcase their innovative approach to F1 engineering.
