Short Biography:

Conall Dodd graduated from the department of Mechanical Engineering in University College Dublin with a B.E. (Hons) in June 2004. After working with UCD Racing at an undergraduate level Conall decided to continue on at postgraduate level within the team. Dr. Will Smith supervises his M.Eng.Sc. research, a continuation and development of his undergraduate work.

Current Research:

Building on previous work carried out concerning the optimisation of airflows within the formula student engine, this study focuses on the generation of a stand-alone unsteady CFD model. The salient effects of the gas dynamic behaviour within an engine strongly influence engine performance, and through the obligatory installation of a flow restriction into the intake system [1], the gas dynamics and consequently engine performance are adversely altered. It is important therefore to design an intake system geometry that will reduce the impact of this flow restriction.

Utilising several key software packages including I-DEAS SDRC and FLUENT a comprehensive CFD model will incorporate a deformable volume mesh to simulate the effects of moving boundaries such as valves and piston. The velocity of mesh motion can be defined and consequently replicate engine conditions at any predetermined RPM. The impact of varying turbulence-modelling schemes will be analysed and their suitability for this specific situation assessed.

The ultimate goal of this research is to provide an accurate computer simulation, which has been compared against previous 1D analysis and validated against the results of physical engine testing. This model can then be used as a test bed for the design of new intake and exhaust systems and to analyse the effects of respective geometry changes to the flow fields within the engine, and the associated performance characteristics.

[1] In order to limit the power capability from an engine a single circular restrictor (diameter 20mm) must be placed in the intake system between the throttle and engine.

Research Brief [.pdf format]

Research Interests:

Research interest focuses primarily on multi-dimensional modelling of engine reacting flows.

Additional information:

UCD Racing Webmaster

Name: Conall Dodd

Tel: +353 (0) 1 716 1834

Fax: +353 (0) 1 283 0534

Email: conall.dodd@ucd.ie

Some CFD output from Conall's files

A plot velocity contours taken along a mid-plane of the UCD R3 intake manifold (plenum and runners)	Velocity contour plots within the R3 plenum

A cutaway shot illustrating the hybrid mesh surrounding the valves	Mach Flow through the Restrictor at 9000 RPM (Engine: Honda CBR 600)

CFD image illustrating the onset of tumble flow within the engine cylinder (Engine: Yamaha WR450)	CFD image illustrating the development of tumble flow within the engine cylinder (Engine: Yamaha WR450)

CFD image: Double counter rotational vortex flow within the WR450 engine cylinder

UCD Racing Team Forum

A new forum has been established for UCD Racing team members and followers. It's still in its infancy so be patient. It should offer us the opportunity to communicate with members easier over the Summer period, and hopefully to get back in touch with previous team members and Alumni.