3D Engine Designer

Overview

The 3D Engine Designer is a program for my A-Level Computer Science NEA. It is designed for engineers who need an easy to use engine simulator to test engines before they are built for real so that they can estimate power, torque, price, weight and efficiency. It uses React for the front end and Tauri for the back end.

Key Features

• Engine Simulation: Simulate different engine configurations by adjusting variables such as piston size, turbocharger size, and fuel quality.
• 3D Visualization: Interact with a fully 3D environment to view your engine from any angle, with dimensions provided on the X, Y, and Z axes for accurate measurement.
• Real-Time Statistics: Monitor key engine statistics such as horsepower, torque, efficiency, and cost in real-time as you modify the engine.
• Comprehensive Material Database: Select from a variety of materials for engine blocks and pistons, each with unique properties such as weight, cost, and maximum power/torque capabilities.
• Customizable Graphs: Generate and customize power and torque graphs to visualize engine performance across different RPM ranges.
• Problem Detection: Automatically detects issues with the current engine configuration, such as material strength limitations, and provides actionable feedback.
• Cross-Platform Support: Available as downloadable executables for Windows and macOS built using React, TypeScript, and Tauri.

Getting Started

Prerequisites

Ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• Windows: Windows 7 or higher
• macOS: macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or higher

Installation

1. Download the Installer:

   • Visit the GitHub Releases page and download the appropriate installer for your operating system:
     • .exe for Windows
     • .dmg for macOS

2. Run the Installer:

   • Windows:
     • Double-click the downloaded .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • macOS:
     • Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the 3D Engine Designer app into your Applications folder.

3. Launch the Application:

   • After installation, launch the 3D Engine Designer from your applications menu or desktop shortcut.

Usage

1. Create a New Engine Design:

   • Click on "New Project" to start designing a new engine.
   • Choose from various engine layouts and configurations.

2. Customize Engine Components:

   • Use the Properties Panel to adjust specifications such as:
     • Bottom End: Engine block type, bore, stroke, and material selection.
     • Top End: Head type, valve configuration, timing settings, and materials.
     • Aspiration: Turbocharger or supercharger options, including size and boost pressure.
     • Fuel & Timing: Select fuel type, quality, and ignition timing.
     • Appearance: Customize visual aspects of the engine for presentation purposes.

3. Visualize in 3D:

   • Navigate the 3D Viewport to inspect your engine design from all angles.
   • Utilize zoom, pan, and rotate controls for detailed inspection.

4. Analyze Performance:

   • Access real-time Performance Graphs displaying power and torque across various RPM ranges.
   • Review Efficiency Metrics and Material Stress Analyses to ensure design feasibility.

5. Detect and Resolve Issues:

   • The Problem Detection System will alert you to potential issues such as:
     • Material strength limitations.
     • Incompatible component configurations.
     • Inefficient performance metrics.
   • Follow suggested solutions to optimize your engine design.

6. Save and Export:

   • Save your project locally or export configurations and reports for sharing and further analysis.
   • Export 3D models and performance data for use in other engineering software.