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RC Baja Drivetrain and Steering

Introduction

The R/C Baja Racecar can be used for both contest and recreation. The main competition that is being considered is the ASME Baja competition, which is hosted by Central Washington University. This competition will necessitate abilities such as navigating obstacle courses and driving effectively while off road. 

The half of the project described here consists of the design and construction of the drivetrain and steering systems. The primary function of the drivetrain will be to move the wheels at sufficient speeds, while the steering will control the car's movement and allow sharp turning.

Engineering Report
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Fig. 1: Steering System sketch

Fig. 2: Drivetrain System sketch

Intro Presentation - Fall
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Presentation - Winter
Final Presentation - Spring

Test Results

Overall, this project did not measure up to most of the requirements set in the fall. However, the project goal was primarily to compete in the competition, not win, so the project could be considered a success overall due to it driving consistently and being able to be a competitor in the races. These results were accurate but not very precise due to a lack of precise equipment. Most measurements have uncertainties of +/-1 unit, such as mph or degrees due to use of simple tools like rulers and protractors. Thankfully, the extra precision was never necessary to make a conclusive judgement on the vehicle performance. 

The device failed the steering angle/time test. This is due to an error in geometry with the device that restricts the range of motion for the tie rods. The results of this test can be seen in Figure 3 below. 

The device passed the inertia/torque test. The results can be seen in figure 4. It passed due to extensive calculation and research done, which ensured a balance between gear survivability and inertia. 

The device failed the top speed test, as can be seen below in figure 5. The vehicle ideal speed was the speed without any friction present. Also, during the design process purchasing larger wheels than originally planned was required, which would have further reduced the top speed. 

As mentioned previously, though two of three major tests failed, the major underlying personal goal for this project was simply to make a device that could drive and turn smoothly. According to the tests set for it one could deem this project a failure, but a massive amount was learned about gearing and the transmission of power as well as the assembly being functional

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Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

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