A Multibody model of a Formula Student Car. On-track Validation and Set-up Optimization

In the present paper a multibody model of the Formula SAE car developed at the University of Pisa (Italy) is presented. The model was made up of rigid bodies and concentrated stiffness and damping properties relating to suspensions and roll bars; the tire properties were supplied by the Formula SAE Tire Test Consortium; an analytical law was defined in order to reproduce the differential behaviour. A look ahead path follower was used to define a steering rate controller, while a speed follower was used to define a wheels torque controller (i.e. traction or braking). The validation was based on the comparison between simulated and on-board acquired signals; the controllers appeared to be capable of accurately reproducing the real car behaviour. Once the consistency of the model was proved, an optimization study of front and rear anti-roll bars setting was performed with reference to the skid pad test.