{"id":274159,"date":"2026-08-31T13:12:46","date_gmt":"2026-08-31T17:12:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/solidxperts.com\/?post_type=techtips&p=274159"},"modified":"2026-08-31T13:20:51","modified_gmt":"2026-08-31T17:20:51","slug":"simulation-optimized-3d-printed-race-car-part","status":"publish","type":"techtips","link":"https:\/\/solidxperts.com\/en\/blog\/simulation-optimized-3d-printed-race-car-part\/","title":{"rendered":"How SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation and Markforged Simulation Helped Optimize a Race Car Part"},"content":{"rendered":"

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How SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation and Markforged Simulation Helped Optimize a Race Car Part<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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In this project, SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation and Markforged Simulation were used to optimize a reinforcement bracket for a race car before it was manufactured. Aerodynamic simulation helped determine the loads acting on the part, while Eiger was used to optimize its print orientation, infill, and continuous carbon fiber reinforcement. The final 3D-printed part achieved a worst case safety factor of 2.18 while keeping material usage and manufacturing costs under control.<\/p>\n

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From the Racetrack to Additive Manufacturing<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

A difference in handling between the left and right sides of a race car may seem minor. At high speeds, however, it can reveal an important mechanical or aerodynamic issue.<\/p>\n

That is exactly what happened with one of the vehicles sponsored by Solidxperts. The driver noticed a difference in how the car behaved from one side to the other. After several inspections, the team discovered that the splitter, the component located at the front and underneath the vehicle, had partially detached on one side.<\/p>\n

\"Racetrack<\/a><\/p>\n

A reinforcement bracket was needed to securely hold the splitter in place without negatively affecting the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Since only a small number of vehicles required the part, additive manufacturing offered a fast and cost-effective solution.<\/p>\n

The project followed three main steps:<\/p>\n

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  1. \n

    Optimize the bracket geometry using SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  2. \n

    Determine the loads that the part would need to withstand.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  3. \n

    Optimize its print orientation and manufacturing parameters using Markforged Simulation in Eiger.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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    Why Simulate a Part Before 3D Printing It?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

    Simulation makes it possible to evaluate multiple concepts virtually before spending time and material on physical prototypes. It can help answer practical questions such as:<\/p>\n