Students help to build supersonic car
Engineering students from the University of Bath have been working on a project to build a supersonic car.
They joined forces with the Western Vocational Lifelong Learning Network and the BLOODHOUND Project to support the progression of apprentices and vocational learners into higher level learning.
It’s part of the University’s Lifelong Learning Network, a national initiative to broaden access to vocational higher education for all ages.
The BLOODHOUND Project complements perfectly these aims in using the challenge of designing, building and running a supersonic car to inspire the next generation of engineers.
Eighteen talented engineering students were given the challenge to use the latest technology to design, build and test a part for the BLOODHOUND SuperSonic Car (SSC).
They were able to find out about progress to reach 1000mph and break the current land-speed record of 763mph.
After three years of preparation, work has now begun on assembling the jet and rocket-powered vehicle at the BLOODHOUND Technical Centre in Bristol Docklands next to the SS Great Britain.
Students were given the opportunity to explore and analyse how this complex feat in engineering is to be achieved, and gain an insight into impressive, state of the art technologies using some of the latest computer aided design and manufacturing techniques.
Then three-day challenge culminated in an exhibition of designs and an awards ceremony where students were presented with certificates and awards.
Faith Butt, Director of the Division for Lifelong Learning and Chair of the Lifelong Learning Network said: “The University wants to raise aspirations and encourage vocational learners to consider developing higher level skills through Higher Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.
“Vocational learners not only have qualifications but work related experience and bring a wealth of skills both to employers and universities. With more young people and adults choosing an apprenticeship or vocational route we think it is essential we ensure they are given the opportunity to fulfil their career aspirations and can gain access to higher education courses.”
The event was hosted by S&B Automotive Academy which is a specialist training provider for the automotive, logistics and transport sectors.
Another local company Bits from Bytes have also been contributing to the success of the course by lending the latest 3D printers for the students to use, meaning they will gain first-hand experience in this cutting edge technology.
The event is also supported by long-term contributors Intel and Promethean.
Provided by University of Bath