MIE.34 – A Detail Study of Different Drive Train Options

• Julian Diaz
• Bijo John
• Nick Lamerdin
• Mahamad Adnan Vahora

A drivetrain system collaborates with the various components present in a car, which helps in the motion of the vehicle. Depending on the purpose, and terrain the drive system can be different to bring out its maximum performance. Since the component’s functions vary depending on the type of drivetrain, it is necessary to analyze the goal and design the system accordingly. The SAE team from UIC takes part in the BAJA race which challenges engineering students to build vehicles to withstand the rough terrain and mud. Previously, the UIC SAE team performed the race with a Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) system which did not perform well in the race since the wheels did not have enough power to overcome the mud pit. So, our team proposed to have an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that powers both axles and provides enough torque at all wheels to keep the system running throughout the competition without failure. For the drive system, the team analyzed the chain, belt, and shaft drive system. Creating a Quality Function Diagram (QFD) and Decision matrix, the team decided on the belt drive system due to its better performance than other systems. An additional Decision matrix was created to weigh different belt drive systems. Acknowledging the Codes and Standards, the team used the values to perform calculations to figure out the size of the parts such as gearbox, and pulleys created using SolidWorks. The Ansys simulation was also performed to validate the created designs, and necessary changes were made to improve the design by conducting Design FMEA for the design system. The final design achieved a torque value of 380 ft*lbs. at the minimum CVT gear ratio setting (3.0:1) which is significantly higher than the previous RWD design, contrary to it a top speed of almost 40 mph is also achieved when the CVT shifts to maximum gear ratio setting (0.43:1). The torque and RPM values satisfy the UIC SAE BAJA requirements of the vehicle output which further validates the design in the output aspect.