Document Type

Undergraduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2021

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Committee Chair

Charles Pringle

Second Committee Member

John Choi

Abstract

The purpose of the RC Baja Car is to compete in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) competition, a series of events to prove the functionality of the vehicle. This series of events includes the Slalom, Drag, and Baja race. The Slalom is a test in the steering capability of the car. The Drag is a test in the acceleration of the car in a straight line. Lastly, the Baja puts all factors together in a race to test every component of the car. This project is about building an RC car that can function under these conditions and hit maximum performance capabilities. This report describes the analysis, design, construction, and testing evaluation of the drivetrain and steering systems of the car. Chesna Kern was responsible for the chassis and suspension portion; together, this makes a complete system. The drivetrain was built with two different gear ratio systems for the idea of being able to get high speed and get high torque. The steering was constructed with a high ratio servo and Lego pieces for easy change and adjustability. Using lightweight material was one of the most critical aspects of building, so most car parts used ABS and acrylic plastic to keep the weight low. The resulting car reached speeds of 25 mph, an acceleration of 10 ft/s2, a turning radius of 35 degrees, and all weight under 5 pounds. These were the critical factors that the car needed so that the event runs could be successful.

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