Testing Summary
This section focuses on the mechanical engineering of the RC Baja car, specifically highlighting the testing procedures. Assess the durability through drop height tests, evaluating the resilience of the suspension. Examine the steering capabilities, revealing the precision engineered for practical performance. This segment succinctly outlines the reliability and functionality of the RC Baja car under rigorous testing conditions.
Steering Angle Test
The steering angle test was a crucial test to determine the average steering angle for the left and right direction. To set this test up the required tools required a protractor, a straightedge, a piece to elevate the car, and the RC Car with its remote. Conducting the test was straightforward, the middle of the left tire was lined up with the bottom of the protractor along with the 90-degree marker. Once everything was aligned, the wheel was turned to the left and the straightedge helped align the middle of the tire with the degree the tire turned. This test was replicated 5 times for the left tire and an average value was calculated. The same process was used for the right tire with the wheel turning to the right. Lastly, it was very crucial to look directly over the car to ensure that the angle was measured correctly for the left and right tire. After all the testing was complete it was determined that the steering angle for the left and right was 34 degrees.
Push Rod Bolt Test
The push rod bolt test was an essential test to test the main bolt on the suspension system. The bolt that was tested experienced many forces, and it was important to ensure that the part would not fail during regular driving conditions. The test included determining the maximum force that the bolt could withstand. The required amount of force that the bolt needed to maintain was at least 20 pounds. However, it was calculated through thorough analysis that the bolt would be able to withstand 180 pounds. After conducting the test, it was shown that the maximum force that the bolt could withstand would be about 280 pounds. However, there were complications in performing the test correctly. The apparatus that was available for the testing did not have proper hole locations to fasten the supports that were holding up each end of the bolt. Complications arose because there was a concern of the test failing due to the supports moving. The best way to mitigate the issue was by keeping a careful eye on the system while the load was applied and stop the testing if there was any movement with the supports. Luckily, the test was an overall success. The test results exceeded expectations and proved that the bolt would be able to maintain all force that would go through the push rod system for the suspension.
Turning Diameter Test
The turning radius test was conducted to see if the car would be able to turn within its designed parameters. The parameters were based on calculations using the length and width of the RC car. The calculation then provided the required steering angle to ensure that the car can turn a diameter of 3 feet. The test, which can be seen on the right, involved finding the turning diameter to see if it compared with the calculations. When conducting the test, the car's rear tires would start against a flat and straight wall. Secondly, the tires would be entirely turned to the right or left, depending on the test trial that was conducted. Lastly, the car would turn a full semi-circle until the front tires were flush against the same wall it started against. The diameter was then measured from the inside tire of the finished point to the inside tire of the starting part. The measurement that was taken would be considered as the turning diameter. Unfortunately, this test was a failure as the diameter did not reach the parameter of 3 feet. Instead, the shortest possible turn diameter was 4.5 feet when turning to the right and 6 feet when turning to the left.