Dragster Project: emphasis on control

Control
• The dragster project focuses on control
• Controlling electric motors is the basis
for many applications in industry
Examples of applications include:
standard power tools and machines –
(most electric drills will reverse direction)
automated machines, CNC machines,
and robotic machines
• Control of motors is primary – desired
motion is secondary
What is a dragster?
Shirley Muldowney NY won the Top Fuel Championship in 1977,
1980, and 1982 – ranked 5th in all time speed driver list.
Muldowney is Irish American – Don’t forget Tracey!
 Dragster Theme

Expandable design - Body based on inter fitting aluminium

channels. Two simple gearboxes and motors are used to drive large rear
wheels. Each wheel may be controlled separately.

Prototype vehicle:
Dragster Theme
 Dragster Theme

Simple design - one piece frame or body to support additional components

-
Castor
Castor in a car steering
 Dragster Project
Integration of Topics:

Project Allocation of resources, Time, Materials, Equipment,

Costs, etc
Management

Body/Frame design: Sketching of idea’s, dimensioning, selection of suitable materials,

exercises in SolidWorks

Assembly Screwing and Tapping, and Soldering, and

consideration of other methods
Techniques

Gear boxes ,Both bought and constructed, Bevel gears,

Drive Systems Worm Gears, Pulley Systems, Belt & Chain Drives, Drive
reversal, etc.

Electronics: Components, Circuit design, Board layout, Timing circuits,

Electronic theory.

Finishes: Polishing, Painting, Vacuum forming of body shell.

 Dragster project

Summary
Some or all of the following areas may be integrated and incorporated
into the final project:

1. Design theory and practice

2. Appropriate material selection
3. Marking out and fitting skills
4. Assembly and joining processes
5. Electronic circuit design theory and practice
6. Mould making theory and practice
7. Finishes, surface and other
8. Project Management
9. Safety considerations, general and project specific.