Document Type

Undergraduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2024

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Committee Chair

Dr. John Choi

Second Committee Member

Charles Pringle, PE

Third Committee Member

Mr. Chris Berkshire

Abstract

The engineers in the CWU Mechanical Engineering Technology program were asked to design and manufacture a remote-controlled Baja car to compete in several different events. The car was required to compete in a drag race, slalom event, and Baja event against other cars created by engineering students. To compete at the highest level, the cars needed to finely balance ruggedness, weight, torque, and top speed.

This report is dedicated to the designing, manufacturing, and testing of the drivetrain and chassis that supported the RC car as it competed in the school-sanctioned competition; a partner was responsible for the steering and suspension portion of the project. After creating a list of project requirements during the Fall quarter, the engineers applied a multitude of engineering principles in their analyses to ensure that the car would meet all design criteria and project requirements. The team designed the entire car during the Fall quarter, manufactured it during the Winter quarter, and conducted the testing and racing during the Spring quarter.

Upon the project's completion, the team was able to qualitatively determine the success of the drivetrain and chassis prototypes through extensive testing during the spring quarter. With a top speed of 24 MPH, an acceleration from zero to 20 MPH in under 5 seconds, and a chassis deflection of less than 0.2” when subjected to a 25-pound load at the center, this project was considered a success.

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