Modeling Vehicle Dynamics

Model your vehicle dynamics for lap-time simulation, prediction of energy consumption, or to tune your suspension system. Christoph Hahn, Sebastian Castro, and Swarooph Seshadri, of MathWorks, introduce you to the benefits of physical modeling and give an update on online training for Formula Student teams that will be available soon.

Using a physical simulation of an entire Formula Student vehicle, Swarooph introduces you to the basics of Simscape™. Focusing on the possibilities for Formula Student teams, he describes the structure of the model and how you can adapt it to your needs. You can build a robust and simple model in a short period of time with built-in blocks like the Generic Engine, while add-ons allow you to generate detailed models of physical systems such as batteries or gear boxes.

Swarooph then introduces you to a 3D multibody simulation of a suspension assembly with SimMechanics™. Model and results of the simulation can be displayed in a 3D animation without further efforts, thus changes to the geometry and their effect on the system can be investigated quickly.

In the second part of the demonstration, Sebastian gives an insight into the basics of physical modeling by comparing it to the usual block diagram. Both approaches can be used in one Simulink model, whereby the advantages are combined. 

Finally, Christoph announces a complementary online training for all Formula Student teams, covering physical modeling with Simscape.