Design and Analysis of Solar Car Chassis for WSC 2023

Abstract

The World Solar Challenger is a biennial global competition that plays a crucial role in testing and advancing the technological limits of solar-powered vehicles, particularly in the context of diverse travel conditions. The competition features three categories: Challenger Class, Cruiser Class, and Adventure Class. In 2023, Siam Technology University participated with the STC-4 model in the Cruiser Class. This research contributed to the vehicle's design, structural integrity, safety, and performance evaluation, essential for passing the scrutineering tests. Researchers were involved in shaping the vehicle's aerodynamics, analyzing structural aspects, and designing safety features compliant with World Solar Challenge 2023 requirements. The goal was to ensure the vehicle's safe participation and successful operation under varied conditions. The designed solar-powered vehicle, STC-4, aimed to address shortcomings from previous competitions. The structural framework, utilizing AISI 4130 steel, met safety standards, with a final weight of 258 kg. Structural testing ensured that the displacement did not exceed 25 mm. Finite Element Analysis confirmed the structural integrity, aligning with the team's objectives. In conclusion, this research significantly contributed to the design and safety aspects of solar-powered vehicles, as demonstrated by the successful participation of STC-4 in the World Solar Challenge 2023 Cruiser Class. The findings highlight advancements in structural design, safety measures, and performance capabilities, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation in solar vehicle technology.