DESIGN · CAD · SURFACING

SURFACING DESIGN

Conceptual aerodynamic development using CATIA 3DExperience, generative shape design and parametric modelling.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Conceptual Aero Development

Throughout this project, I developed my understanding of surface modelling and parametric CAD using CATIA 3DExperience.

The work focused on creating adaptable geometry using wireframes, guides, points and surfaces, allowing components to be modified efficiently while maintaining robust design intent.

01

AERODYNAMIC SURFACING

T-Wing Development

The T-Wing was developed using a parametric wireframe structure constructed from points, guides and aerofoil geometry.

  • Created wireframes and guides using points to allow rapid geometric modification.
  • Adjusted angle of attack and camber by controlling leading- and trailing-edge geometry.
  • Used multi-section surfaces, mirroring and joins to create the final closed surface.
  • Used legality volumes and Porcupine Curvature Analysis to validate geometry and surface quality.
CATIA T-Wing design
T-Wing wireframe
PARAMETRIC WIREFRAME
T-Wing legality check
LEGALITY CHECK
T-Wing curvature analysis
CURVATURE ANALYSIS

02

BODYWORK

Engine Cover, Airbox & Blister

The bodywork exercise focused on creating adaptable surface geometry capable of supporting different aerodynamic concepts.

  • Created parametric wireframes and guide curves.
  • Adjusted sidepod geometry to explore inwash and downwash configurations.
  • Trimmed the final bodywork from the sidepod, airbox intake and blister surfaces.
  • Incorporated additional components including shark fins and louvres.
CATIA Formula car bodywork
T-Wing wireframe
PARAMETRIC WIREFRAME
T-Wing legality check
FINAL TRIM AND SEW OF SURFACES
T-Wing curvature analysis
COOLING LOUVRE

03

AEROFOIL DEVELOPMENT

Rear Wing

Aerofoil geometry was created from leading-edge, trailing-edge, chord and camber-line definitions, enabling the geometry to be modified parametrically.

  • Generated adjustable aerofoil profiles from points and lines.
  • Used multi-section and tangency surfaces to connect sections.
  • Completed slot-gap and radius legality checks.
  • Used symmetry and join operations to complete the full wing.
Rear wing CAD surface Rear wing aerofoil geometry
T-Wing wireframe
PARAMETRIC WIREFRAME
T-Wing legality check
FINAL TRIM, SEW AND MIRROR OF SURFACES
T-Wing curvature analysis
SLOT GAP LEGALITY CHECK

PARAMETRIC DESIGN

Building geometry that can change without rebuilding the model.

04

SURFACE DEVELOPMENT

Front Nose Cone

The nose cone was designed around an existing front-wing architecture while taking inspiration from historic Formula 1 designs.

  • Established the primary shape using structured geometry.
  • Controlled height through parametric points in the model tree.
  • Developed the nose tip using fill and multi-section surfaces.
  • Used a wireframe structure to control the final surface.
  • Used multiple construction surfaces, to ensure tangency across the surface.
Rear wing CAD surface Rear wing aerofoil geometry
T-Wing wireframe
PARAMETRIC WIREFRAME
T-Wing legality check
FINAL TRIM AND SEW OF SURFACES
T-Wing curvature analysis
FRONT WING ATTACHMENT TO NOSEBOX

ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Component Design

Further exercises developed my understanding of parametric, modular and manufacturing-aware CAD.

CATIA transition duct
01

Transition Duct

Rectangular-to-circular transition using wireframes, tangency surfaces and multi-section geometry.

Interchangeable sidepod infill
02

Interchangeable Infill

Modular sidepod component designed using split surfaces, tolerances and manufacturing features.

Suspension rocker
03

Suspension Rocker

Fully constrained parametric component developed with a simplified model tree for efficient modification.

V6 engine exhaust
04

V6 Exhaust

Complex exhaust geometry developed using splines, points, planes and Generative Shape Design.

PROJECT REFLECTION

Developing a more efficient approach to CAD.

Through these exercises, I developed a stronger understanding of how model structure affects the efficiency of the design process.

Parametric design became a key focus, allowing geometry to be modified quickly while reducing the risk of downstream model failures.