Design Article
AutoDesk, IndyCar team on CAD software use
By Cabe Atwell
12/17/2012 7:04 PM EST
IndyCar has used Autodesk’s AutoCAD software to design garage layouts for strategic unloading and loading at different venues around the world. But IndyCar’s engineers have never used AutoCAD near its full potential. From a closer look, these two companies may actually make a fine duo. IndyCar plans to use AutoCAD for its versatility and huge array of tools in order to allow IndyCar teams to create faster, safer, and more innovative cars.
(Source: Autodesk)
AutoCAD is already used by the racing organization to plan and draw layouts for sled crash tests used to make IndyCar open-wheel racing safer. The Autodesk Product Design Suite will be perfect for prototyping and simulating different chassis designs. It will also allow them to experiment with different layouts for the racecar’s systems in order to improve aerodynamics. The software comes with tools designed to work with different materials like sheet metal and plastics. Welds, structural framework and harnesses, and cables are easily incorporated into designs, as well. IndyCar says it plans to implement any innovation created from the software into all cars, as standards, to produce faster but fair and safe racing.

