Designing a Safe and Ergonomic Go-Kart: An Engineering Approach Utilizing CAD and ANSYS Analysis

Abstract

Designing a go-kart is a complex and multidisciplinary task that involves various aspects, such as safety, functionality, performance, and manoeuvrability. To achieve these objectives, a thorough understanding of the design process, technical specifications, competition rules, and environmental factors is required. This project aims to design a go-kart that is safe, functional, and optimized for performance and manoeuvrability while adhering to competition rules, environmental considerations, and cost constraints. The design group is responsible for creating an aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic layout for the vehicle. The frame must be rigid and torsion-free, and the powertrain well-mounted for optimal performance. The braking group is responsible for designing a reliable and efficient braking system that ensures maximum safety, while the steering group is responsible for designing a responsive and accurate steering system that enables the driver to navigate the track with ease. The engine and transmission groups must carefully select and optimize the powertrain to minimize emissions and noise while maintaining peak performance. In the design process, computer-aided design (CAD) software and finite element analysis (FEA) are used to simulate the vehicle's performance, optimize the design, and identify potential areas of improvement. Prototype testing is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the design and identify any shortcomings. To ensure that the final design meets the requirements and objectives of the project, the group continuously tests and evaluates each subsystem. This involves conducting simulations, analyzing data, and adjusting the design as needed. The group also receives feedback from experts and industry professionals to ensure that the final design is of high quality and meets industry standards.