Racing

Advanced Pattern Works manufactures tooling for plugs, patterns and molds for race cars.   In early 2004, Advanced Pattern Works was given the opportunity to participate in the University of Michigan 2005 Momentum Solar Car Project. As part of our support for this valuable program, APW fabricated 8 individual tooling mold plugs made from 20 lb tooling foam to donate to the Solar Car Team. These plugs were then used to create the fiberglass body of the Momentum Solar Car, which was publicly unveiled in January 2005.

This project was especially challenging because of the large size of the pieces needed. It was essential to the design of the solar car that the top and bottom skins are made of one full piece. APW was able to accomplish this task using our large part CNC machine, which has a cutting envelop of 8' x 16' x 4'.

For more information on the U of M Solar Car Team and the 2005 World Solar Car Race, please visit the U of M website at www.engin.umich.edu/solarcar/.