DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A RUNNING CHASSIS FOR A SIMPLE VEHICLE (BRAKE, SUSPENSION, STEERING SYSTEM)

As the name implies, a simple vehicle can be describe as vehicle which only has a
few parts, doesn't have a complicated design, doesn't involve complex machinery,
and easy to operate. Although simple, each and every component must be properly
built to achieve certain purposes of the vehicle, including the running chassis. It
comprises of braking system, suspension system, and steering system. A poorly
designed running chassis would cause an uncomfortable ride of the vehicle,
instability especially during comer, and eventually low fuel efficiency. The objective
of this project was to produce braking system that can give adequate braking, rigid
suspension system that can bear the whole weight of the vehicle and give stability to
the vehicle and its cargo, and also a rigid and light steering system. They were
achieved by conducting research and calculations, experimenting on different setups
(trial and error) method and also research about local market availability of the
required products. The vehicle's brake was tested both under static and dynamic
brake test. Due to all calculations and modifications done to the vehicle, it could be
stopped at a 30° inclined slope both using the front brakes and rear brakes
individually. Under dynamic test, the vehicle can be stopped in Jess than 5m when
the vehicle was driven at a speed of 25 km!h. The brake was also easier and less
tiring to operate than the previous configuration thanks to foot operated brakes.
Better parts tolerance was achieved due to better design and fabrication process. It
reduced the clattering and eases the general operations, especially after proper usage
of grease. A newly ergonomic and space efficient driving position was also achieved
by simulating it digitally until a satisfying design was achieved. Lastly, the current
vehicle can be controlled easily by having a steering ratio of 0.815:1, or also called
fast ratio, which is desired for simple vehicle with limited cockpit space.