Free to attend Dynamic Performance workshop presented by Lotus Engineering

Optimized vehicle dynamic performance cannot be achieved with development tuning alone. Decisions made in the early stages of vehicle concept definition and throughout the design process can significantly affect the final result. Aspects of the vehicle far removed from the suspension systems may be crucial for optimized vehicle performance, as will the selection of the correct suspension system concept for the platform.

Lotus Engineering is world renowned as a leader in driving dynamics. This workshop will lead participants through the company’s structured approach to vehicle concept design, with emphasis on the vehicle dynamics implications of engineering decisions.

Overview and introduction
Vehicle dynamics through a top-down approach of integrated vehicle design.

Defining the vehicle attributes – developing the product profile
Use of benchmarking, voice of the customer and Lotus’ knowledge base to determine vehicle level attributes that match the vehicle’s brand values.

Target cascade – developing the vehicle technical specification
Use of concept CAE tools such as Lotus’ Raven full-vehicle dynamics analysis to develop system-level targets from full-vehicle attributes.

Vehicle layout and system concept selection
Use of Lotus’ knowledge base, benchmarking and processes such as Quality Functional Deployment (QFD) to determine the viability of various concepts to meet the overall requirements.

System development
Design and CAE tools and approaches to system development for chassis and vehicle systems, including use of Lotus vehicle dynamics simulation software.

Confirming the vehicle concept achieves the vehicle attributes
Closing the loop on the engineering process, addressing conflicts and revisiting system-level requirements at an early stage in the program.

The workshop will take place on Wednesday 7 May 2008 at Vehicle Dynamics Expo at 10.00 - 12.30.