Formula SAE
Formula SAE
As Driver Interface and Brakes Lead for the Virginia Motorsports FSAE EV team, I am responsible for leading the design, validation, and integration of braking systems and driver controls with a focus on performance, safety, ergonomics, and FSAE compliance. I manage and coordinate a subteam of 20+ members while working closely with chassis, vehicle dynamics, and electrical subteams to ensure seamless system integration. I am also passionate about translating driver feedback into measurable design improvements through CAD, analysis, and on-track testing.
Developed an upper steering system to transition from a bevel box to a double U-joint setup to improve packaging efficiency and reduce backlash. Analyzed human dynamometer data, seating positions, and angular misalignment to inform design decisions. Iteratively refined joint placement, bearing selection, and shaft geometry to maintain constant velocity steering.
Designed an electronic brake biasing system for the VM26E car, enabling dynamic adjustment of front-to-rear braking distribution. Integrated sensors, servo motor, and control logic to optimize braking performance during regenerative braking activation.
Designed and fabricated an ergonomics jig to optimize driver cockpit layout, enabling precise adjustment of controls and seating positions according to multiple anthropometric models. Utilized CAD, prototyping, and iterative testing to ensure the design supported driver comfort, accessibility, and FSAE rules requirements.
Constructed the driver dash layout and housing, sourcing and specifying all necessary electronic hardware. Focused on ergonomic placement and intuitive functionality of controls to enhance driver performance and comfort. The dash design is validated and planned for implementation on next year’s VM26E FSAE EV, ensuring continuity and improvement in vehicle systems and driver interface.
Designed Virginia Motorsports’ first carbon fiber steering wheel featuring integrated control buttons. Combined ergonomic shaping, lightweight carbon fiber construction, and driver-focused functionality to improve cockpit control and performance, representing a new interface approach for the team’s vehicles.