Document Type

Undergraduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

Summer 2022

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Committee Chair

Charles Pringle

Second Committee Member

John Choi

Abstract

Students designed and manufactured an RC Baja truck to compete as a team in the annual ASME RC Baja Competition in various events and obstacles. A chassis and suspension system were required to house and secure each of the RC components to successfully compete and function as intended. The team designed a 1/10th scale model RC truck through various analysis calculations and model mockup drawings to optimally perform and compete in a competition amongst other teams of designers. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) competition will include the straight-line dash, slalom, and Baja course time trial. This project will dive into the specifics of the design process that went into the Chassis and Suspension portion of the overall manufacturing of the RC Baja truck. The design that was used is a unique half-plate design that incorporates long travel rear trailing arms that allow for a large range of motion to optimize traction at the driving wheels over rough terrain and jumps. 3D printing was used to create the trailing arms, front bumper, and front suspension components whereas the chassis plate, shock towers, and control arms were waterjet cut from aluminum. Tests included a drop test that produced displacement in the shocks 0.25 inches greater than previously predicted, an impact test ranging between 5, 10, and 15mph intervals, and finally a chassis deflection test that applied force to the suspended chassis to test the deflection experienced in the center of the baseplate.

Comments

2022 SOURCE presentation: https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/source/2022/CEPS/22/

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