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Formula SAE EV Powertrain

Sophia Hekman

Project Timeline

Sep 2023 - Current

OVERVIEW

Senior technical lead responsible for the design, analysis, and complete integration of the electric vehicle's powertrain subsystem. This involved taking the system from initial concept and requirement definition through detailed design, advanced structural analysis, fabrication, assembly, and final validation for technical inspection and competition. Focused on optimizing component reliability and manufacturability for peak on-track performance.

HighlightS

Led the optimization of the subsystem design utilizing SolidWorks FEA, successfully cutting 30% of the machined component weight and reducing machining time by 25% while ensuring all parts remained well within established factors of safety under full dynamic load.
Directed a sub-team of four peers through the fabrication, precise assembly, and integration of the entire powertrain system onto the chassis.
Achieved successful compliance and passed technical mechanical inspection on the second attempt at competition, validating the system's reliability and adherence to demanding standards.
Quickly mastered relevant complex software and engineering concepts to effectively lead a major subsystem design from my sophomore year.

SKILLS

Design for Manufacturability (DFM)Finite Element Analysis (FEA)SolidWorks (CAD)Structural OptimizationEngineering DocumentationPrototyping & FabricationComplex AssemblyTechnical Project LeadershipCross-functional Team Management