Document Type

Undergraduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2024

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Engineering Technology

Committee Chair

Charles Pringle, PE or Dr. John Choi

Second Committee Member

Charles Pringle, PE, or Dr. John Choi

Third Committee Member

Mr. Chris Berkshire

Abstract

Engineers enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program at Central Washington University were tasked with developing a vehicle to compete in the ASME Baja competition. The engineers were in teams of two, one focused on suspension and steering and the other focused on drive train and chassis.

To begin the design of the vehicle, engineering analyses were completed on each of the components to comply with the requirements set by the team. After completion of multiple analyses for the components of the vehicle, the dimensions were validated and have been created in a CAD program to allow for virtual assembly of the vehicle before manufacturing takes place. Finally, once these steps were completed, the vehicle entered the manufacturing phase. Multiple methods of manufacturing were used for this project but it was primarily 3D printing to compensate for the complex geometry of the parts without difficulty of manufacturing.

After the manufacturing stage, the vehicle must be tested under multiple tests. The vehicle endured a drop test, a turning test, and a weighted speed test. During the drop test, the vehicle did not experience deformation from the 1 foot drop. During the deflection test, the upper control arm did not deflect more than 0.05” under a 57lb load. Lastly, during the turning test, the minimum turn angle recorded was 4° which was substantially lower than the required 19° turning angle to meet the requirement.

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