Cientificando | UMA Racing Team

Summary

The Uma Racing Team, formed in 2008 at the University of Málaga, engages students in motorcycle design and competition, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills. The team focuses on two main research areas: vehicle dynamics and railway systems, collaborating with local metro services. Projects include optimizing energy consumption in electric vehicles and improving motorcycle tire safety. With a history of competition success, the team seeks to develop superior prototypes each year, encouraging student participation and industry sponsorship. Members gain valuable experience, enhancing employability while promoting innovation in engineering through various outreach initiatives, including social media and events.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The Uma Racing Team was established in 2008 and consists of students from the University of Málaga participating in motorcycle competitions.
• 🔧 The team engages in various engineering projects, focusing on both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles, including research in dynamics and suspension systems.
• 🚆 Collaborations with Málaga Metro aim to optimize the catenary systems for trains, enhancing their efficiency and reliability.
• ⚡ The team is developing a fully electric vehicle designed to optimize energy consumption for different types of driving trajectories.
• 🏍️ Research is being conducted on motorcycle tires to improve safety during acceleration and braking.
• 💡 The Uma Racing Team operates with a diverse group of about 50 members, offering opportunities for students across various engineering disciplines.
• 🏆 The team achieved significant success in 2018, winning both the dynamic and overall competitions in Moto Student Electric.
• 📅 The competition cycle lasts two years, during which the team works on funding, design, and manufacturing of a new motorcycle prototype.
• 🤝 The team actively seeks sponsorships and collaborations with companies, like Technobus, to support their projects and provide real-world experience for students.
• 👩‍🎓 The project enhances students' employability and provides valuable hands-on experience that complements their academic learning.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Uma Racing Team?

The Uma Racing Team, formed in 2008, participates in motorcycle competitions among universities, promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills among students.

What research areas does the team focus on?

The team focuses on two main research lines: vehicle dynamics for two- and four-wheeled vehicles and railway systems, including collaboration with the Metro of Málaga.

How does the team contribute to railway technology?

The team collaborates with the Metro of Málaga to monitor the state of catenary systems, developing devices to optimize energy consumption and minimize wear.

What is the significance of the electric vehicle project?

The electric vehicle project aims to design a fully electric motorcycle that optimizes energy consumption across various trajectories, contributing to advancements in electric vehicle technology.

How does the team ensure safety in motorcycle design?

The team conducts research on motorcycle tires to model their behavior and enhance safety during braking and acceleration.

What role do students play in the Uma Racing Team?

Students are actively involved in various aspects of motorcycle design, manufacturing, and project management, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

What are the team's achievements in competitions?

The team won the overall championship in 2018 and excelled in dynamic tests in 2021, consistently striving to improve each year's prototype.

How does the team approach project development every two years?

Every two years, the team starts from scratch, focusing on fundraising, project sustainability, and ensuring the continuity of the racing initiative.

What outreach activities does the team participate in?

The team organizes open house events, participates in university open days, and conducts talks at schools to raise awareness and attract new members.

How does collaboration with companies benefit the team?

Collaboration with companies provides financial support and practical insights into industry innovations, enhancing students' learning experiences and employability.