Research project “AHR”: new degree and interesting developments

The main objective of this research project is the development of an architecture of a sport convertible car concept, characterized by innovative technological solutions of part movements. The aim is to create, over and above the virtual model of the car By student Andrea Petruccioli,

a real 1:5 scale prototype by the Modelleria Modenese, with the supervision of the TUTOR, Prof. Fabrizio Ferrari.
Starting by the predefined layout and platform of the Ferrari 458 Spider, a fully automatic retractable hardtop system (AHR) has been considered to supply many advantages in comparison to the normal solutions. Moreover, innovations and devices are inserted to modify configurations of the car, thus improving aerodynamics, engine ventilation and its accessibility, as well as the car design. Safety and ergonomical regulations will be also respected. The project focuses on system’s size reduction, simplification and integration of functions; this allows elimination of common criticalities and limitations of traditional solutions, and creates a different impact on the car volumes, resulting in more freedom for designer’s creativity. In fact, these choices might have benefit of increasing beauty and attractiveness of this type of cars, in which the stylistic factor is one of the most important for the product success.