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Testing is an important process in engineering as it inspects the capabilities, functionality, and quality of the product. Therefore; testing the RC Baja will evaluate whether the car meets the requirements and perform as expected at the RC Baja event. The car will go a series of challenges such as the drag, slalom, and obstacle course challenges.
One issue that reflected on the results is the stability of the vehicle. This resulted in speed lower than the predicted speed. Many things were done to minimize the swerve; therefore, helped improve the speed of the vehicle.
Chassis Deflection Test
The RC Baja is flipped upside-down resting on two aluminum blocks at both ends of the car and 40 lbs. weight was applied on the center of the chassis. The deflection test determines whether the base plate needs bracings as support.
Figure-1: Deflection Test
After the forces are being applied, a straightedge is used to check whether there is deflection on the chassis plate by looking in between the chassis plate and the straightedge, then measured by a caliper.
Figure-2: Deflection
Maximum Speed Test
Two pieces of tape that were 8 feet apart were placed on the ground. The vehicle drove at max speed covering the distance, while a stop watch measured the time from start to finish.
Figure-3: Maximum Speed Test Setup
Figure-4: Maximum Speed Test
Slope Test
A blanket wrapped around a ramp is angled in 10 degrees increment for the slope test. This determines the max angle of the ramp where the vehicle can drive. The blanket was used for its high coefficient of friction.
Figure-5: Slope Test Setup
The slope of the ramp started from 30 degrees to 70 degrees using a protractor. The test was determined a success when the car drives on the ramp without slipping.
Figure-6: Slope Test Ramp Angle
Figure-7: Fun Drop Test
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