During this smaller project my main task is to design a lightweight steering wheel for the prototype vehicle. During the project FDM manufacturing is being widely used to produce parts and tools for production of composite materials.

The project might seem simple, but the design must be failproof. As a safety requirement for Shell Eco-marathon vehicles, the system must have a deadman switch as a safety feature. Reliability is a key feature since it can invalidate measured sessions if malfunctioned. Since our pilot may vary in ergonomic percentiles, the basic design must allow quick and easy changes in sizes. These types of changes can be achived with 3D printing and parametric handle geometry.

During the manufaturing process of the composite plate a 3d printed negative tool will be used during process. Due to the nature of material properties of PLA and manufacturing process the tool's surface will be treated  with PE putty for better surface finish and sealing.