Meeting the challenge
Article Abstract:
It is hoped that the UK's ThrustSSC supersonic land speed record car will be able to achieve speeds of more than 800mph. The car, powered by two Rolls-Royce Spey engines producing 45,000 lbs of combined thrust, will be able to cover a mile in just under five seconds. The project, which has involved five government bodies and five universities, has required 100,000 man hours of build time. It has been possible to overcome some significant engineering challenges, sometimes through adopting very innovative approaches.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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Putting it together
Article Abstract:
It was vital that the chassis of the ThrustSSC supersonic car offered the highest possible strength to performance ratio. It was decided at an early stage to use a tubular spaceframe within the body shape, thus ensuring easier attachment of mechanical components. The rear wheels are located within the rear body structure, while two transverse beams are used to mount the front wheels. The body panels are attached to the spaceframe through an understructure.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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Breakthrough design
Article Abstract:
It was clear from the very beginning that it would be very difficult to get the front wheels to steer the TrustSSC supersonic car, according to chief mechanical engineering Glynne Bowsher. He decided that it may be feasible to fix the front wheels and steer by the offset rear wheels instead. Following testing, his idea gained approval. In the long term, the rear wheel steer approach has produced very significant benefits for the overall design.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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