PROJECT: FIREWALL CLOSEOUT ATTACHMENT
OVERVIEW:
Designed and modeled a custom closeout attachment in SOLIDWORKS to provide a secure and manufacturable mounting solution for a mechanical assembly. The design incorporated button head screws and PEM nuts for reliable fastening, improved serviceability, and efficient integration within the system while applying CAD modeling and design-for-manufacturing principles.
SKILLS:
CAD, Manufacturing, SolidWorks
DESIGN AND FUNCTIONALITY
Designed and modeled a custom closeout attachment for the University of Waterloo Formula Electric race car to provide a secure and durable mounting solution within the vehicle assembly while maintaining a compact and manufacturable geometry. The attachment was developed in SOLIDWORKS with careful consideration of alignment, fastening accessibility, and structural integration with surrounding components. Emphasis was placed on creating a clean mechanical interface capable of withstanding repeated assembly and disassembly cycles in a high-performance engineering environment.
MECHANICAL INTEGRATION
The closeout attachment was engineered for reliable fastening and ease of installation using button head screws and PEM nuts to secure the assembly. PEM nuts were incorporated to provide strong reusable threads in sheet metal components while minimizing additional hardware and simplifying maintenance during vehicle servicing. The use of low-profile button head screws improved accessibility while maintaining a streamlined and professional integration within the final Formula Electric assembly.
ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING
Applied CAD modeling, mechanical design, and design-for-manufacturing principles throughout the development process to ensure accurate fitment and efficient fabrication for the University of Waterloo Formula Electric vehicle platform. Tolerances and mounting features were optimized to support manufacturability, structural rigidity, and assembly repeatability under demanding design constraints. This project strengthened experience in mechanical integration, fastening system selection, and collaborative engineering design within a competitive motorsport environment.
