Introducing: The Chassis Team
Who are you and what is your job in the team?
I’m Santeri Rahkola and this season I’m responsible of designing the chassis and the brakes. In practice I take care of that our car has four spinning wheels.
What are you studying in TAMK?
I study vehicle engineering for the third year and I specialize in automobile and industrial vehicle engineering
How did you end up in the Formula Student team?
I applied to Tampere University of Applied Sciences because of the the Formula Student -project. I joined the team right after my studies began.
What are the main responsibilities in the frame department?
Our main tasks are developing the the suspension and steering geometry. We also design and produce the suspension, steering and brakes by ourselves.
How would you describe the season from your point of view?
The season starts with designing the chassis. New ideas develop into better ones during the autumn. At Christmas time we’re usually able to produce and order the first components of the chassis. In order to be ready for roll out, the first months of the new year we are extremely busy with producing the required components. In spring and in the beginning of summer we aim test the car as much as possible so that we are sure the geometry of the chassis is working properly.
What benefits you have experienced during this project?
Most of what I’ve learned in school I’ve learned through this project. It’s so much easier to process the things teachers teach us not only by sitting in the theory lessons, but also by doing it with our own hands. The project has given the opportunity to work with students from different areas of study. In addition, we have made many new friends!
Why to choose the frame department?
For the vehicle handling chassis and brakes are the most important parts. If you understand how the chassis and the tires work, you know what is needed for a fast car.
