Smart Kart SteeringProject Proposal

EE 494 - 01 Senior DesignTson Chan, Andrew Hull, Brad Izbell,

Jordan Osier, Jacob Wegrzyn

September 13, 2013

Proposal Overview

Team introductions

Background Information

Design Problem

Objectives

Strategies

Plan of Action

Question & Answer Session

Meet the Team

Background

Background

Electric powered go kart.

Components wirelessly connect with each other.

Demonstrates electrical, computer, and mechanical engineering.

Background

The steering system is unreliable

The current steering mount was poorly attached to the frame

The Client expects the kart to have a reliable steering system while keeping the components of the system communicating wirelessly.

Design Problem

Improper use of motor

Incorrect feedback installation

Steering column design flaw

Objectives

Ensure a safe and operable steering system.

Reconstruct the steering column

Embrace the Synapse Wireless communication system.

Specifications

A rebuilt and adjustable steering column.

Steering wheel return to center.

Accurate steering

Wireless communication using Synapse Network Application Protocol.

Custom Python scripts used to command SNAP modules.

Single servomotor actuates the steering system.

Constraints

Budget

Safety

Power

Hardware/Software

Strategy I: Redesign the Steering System

Signal Converter and

Feedback Module

ServoMotor

Feedback

Strategy II: Reconstruct the Steering Mount

The previous steering mount can be salvaged

Add strength

Strategy II: Reconstruct the Steering Mount

New design also adds the ability to adjust the steering wheel.

Rests between rails, moving only forward and backwards.

Only two pins needed to adjust the steering column.

Strategy III: Incorporating SNAP technology

Replace Arduino boards with SNAP wireless modules.

Make connections to input/output of modules.

Write custom Python scripts

Task ListReinstall and strengthen the mechanical structure of the steering wheel mount.

Replace the DC motor with a servo motor.

Modify the steering design for precision control

Optimize software design for increased performance

Replace current electronic sensors to improve the steering wheel input and steering motor feedback control systems.

Design and implement a “return to center” for steering wheel.

Make control signals from steering system available to the mesh network.

Deliverables

Project Schedule

Work Breakdown Structure

Budget

Results

WEEKLY REPORTS

DOCUMENTATION

DELIVERABLES

TESTING AND DEMONSTRATION

Questions