TECHNICAL PAPERS

This section has technical papers, conference presentations, and Power Point presentations that have been prepared for various venues.  Please read the description or abstract for each of the papers, then download those of interest to you.  

Because the file sizes of many Word documents are very large, we provide these papers in  Adobe format which will minimize download time.  However, image quality suffers somewhat because of the compression algorithms utilized.  If you would like to receive the original documents, or high-resolution pictures of some of the projects, please contact Spectrum5 Racing, and we'll be happy to provide you with the information you need. 

Links are provided at the bottom of each abstract.  Clicking on these links will download and pull up an Adobe .pdf file.  Your browser should support this and open the document within your browser.  If not, go to www.adobe.com and download the Adobe Acrobat reader which is free.

Technical Paper:

Precision Computer Aided Design of Headers

Abstract

Header design and fabrication have traditionally been performed by master craftsmen with years of experience.  This is because there is no closed-form solution (straightforward mathematical formula) that will solve this kind of problem.  Although design approaches vary, the solutions are generally satisfactory, but given the constraints of space it is often extremely difficult to achieve exact equal-length, equal-flow or other desired characteristics in practice.   

However, powerful computer algorithms exist that may be applied to this type of problem.  We present a design methodology and supporting software tools that allow the design and construction of headers where any or all of the desired properties regarding size, position, equal-length, equal-flow, and avoidance (clearance) between tubes and chassis members can be met exactly.  This is achieved using a unique design strategy and powerful design and optimization software.

In practice, we believe these methods will find substantial use in applications demanding the highest levels of performance in many racing applications.  In addition, the mathematical solutions and design software may also find use in other applications such as intake manifold design, general piping applications, etc.

Keywords:  Racing, exhaust header, design, fabrication, 3d transforms, optimization methods, constrained optimization, equal-flow, equal-length, centerline radius.

 

        s5headerRevA.pdf  (3.5 megabytes!), but still smaller than the 140meg Word File!

 

Conference Presentation:

Precision Computer Aided Header Design

Presented at the Advanced Engine Technology Conference 

AETC-2000, Colorado Springs, Colorado, October 15th, 2000

Abstract

A review of Formula 1 header design for the Toyota V-10 F1 engine.  Reviews the design methodologies, digitization of chassis and engines, and also shows the design of the twin-turbo headers for Spectrum5 Racing's Ultima GTR.

        AETC2000.pdf  (1.3 megabytes!)