Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2020

Department

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Committee Chair

Dr. Craig Johnson

Second Committee Member

Dr. John Choi

Third Committee Member

Professor Charles Pringle

Abstract

The Electrathon Vehicle project is an ongoing project that dates back to 2012. The Electrathon Vehicle began as a frame and three wheels when given to the EV club. In past projects the vehicle has had frame and suspension work. The current design is only partially assembled and does not allow for any steering in the vehicle. A steering system needed to be developed in order for the vehicle to be controlled while a person is sitting in the seat. A steering system was designed that could withstand the force of maneuvering the vehicle in excess of 30 mph. This was done using cantilever beam analysis (a beam sticking out of a wall with a weight on it), shear and moment diagrams (shows where the maximum stress is in the beam in a graph type format), torque analysis (a shaft being twisted with a certain amount of force on one end and the other end fixed in place), and shear bolt analysis (required force to break a bolt). The analysis on the steering system concluded that the parts would be able to withstand the projected forces being put on them. The steering system needed to be able to turn within a 50 foot radius with a person in it. The calculated results were confirmed to be able to withstand the forces. The Electrathon Vehicle was able to turn within a 50 foot radius.

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