Formula SAE
4 months
Objective
As a member of a newly formed Formula Student team, my initial objective was to support the core group in overcoming the first major hurdle: passing the highly competitive technical qualification quizzes required for participation in European events like Formula Student Germany (FSG).
My Contribution
Integrating into the team during my first semester, I applied my previous SAE competition experience to accelerate the team's technical preparation. Systematically analyzing the extensive Formula Student rulebook and breaking down complex technical regulations into understandable segments for the team. Collaborating with subsystem leads to develop targeted study materials and conduct mock quiz sessions focusing on vehicle dynamics, powertrain, and electrical systems.
Outcome
This concentrated effort was instrumental in the team's successful qualification for Formula Student Spain. While we missed the cut-off for FSG, securing a spot in the Spanish competition was a significant achievement that validated the team's core engineering knowledge.
Kaiserslautern Racing Team(KaRaT)
BAJA SAE
1 year
Team Mudbrothers Racing
Chief Engineer: Steering System for the All-Terrain Vehicle
For the SAE Baja 2020 competition, I took on the lead role for one of the vehicle's most critical systems: the steering. My mission was to deliver a robust, reliable, and responsive system that could withstand the punishment of off-road racing.
Design & Simulation
The foundation of the project was a custom rack-and-pinion assembly. Using vehicle dynamics software, I performed a detailed kinematic analysis to optimize the steering geometry for maximum maneuverability and minimal bump steer. The goal was to give our driver precise control, no matter how rough the track got.
Virtual Testing & Validation
To guarantee the design was tough enough for competition, I conducted extensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in ANSYS. By simulating real-world race conditions, I could validate the structural integrity of every component, from the tie-rods to the steering column, ensuring the system was safe and built to last.
From CAD to Competition
With a proven design, I led the manufacturing phase. Applying Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles, we used a mix of CNC machining for our core components and 3D printing for complex parts like the ergonomic steering wheel grips. This hands-on approach ensured every piece fit perfectly and performed flawlessly.
The result?
A steering system that held up beautifully under pressure, helping Team Mudbrothers Racing secure an outstanding 7th place finish in the national endurance race.
SAE India Collegiate Club
One of my most fulfilling achievements during my time as Vice President was creating and leading a two-day, hands-on workshop focused on engine assembly for 60 students.
The Challenge
Engineering theory is essential, but practical application is what truly inspires. My goal was to demystify the internal combustion engine and provide students with a memorable, hands-on learning experience.
The Preparation
The initiative was a solo endeavour from the start. I sourced a 3-cylinder Maruti 800cc engine and personally undertook the process of cleaning, disassembling, and preparing it for the workshop. To ensure a fluid and informative presentation, I practiced the full reassembly twice, perfecting a two-hour demonstration that combined mechanical work with a detailed technical explanation.
The Outcome
The two-day event was a huge success. I guided the students through the entire build process, explaining the function of every subcomponent live as it was being installed. This interactive format bridged the gap between diagrams on a page and the reality of a working machine, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment for everyone involved.
1 year
