Frame Design Considerations
Purpose
The frame supports the driver, engine, and all other components.
CAD drawing of a steel tube frame
Primary Considerations
- Safety - The rules, and common sense, dictate that the frame should provide impact and rollover protection for the driver.
- Strength - The frame forms a truss or a monocoque beam supported by the front and rear axles. In addition to bearing the static load of the driver's and engine's weight, it must also be stiff to avoid interferring with the suspension and steering.
- Weight - Should be kept to a minimum. Some cars save weight by using aluminum or composite materials instead of steel, and some make use of a load-bearing monocoque shell instead of tubing.
- Geometry - There must be space for the driver, engine, and all components. Attachment points must be specified for everything. The rules also define minimum dimensions
- Balance - A well-thought out design is balanced both from side-to-side and front-to-back. This prevents cornering bias and maximizes the handling.