Week 8

This week I worked on the second presentation and on reworking calculations for the redesign of the braking system. Originally we planned on moving the disc brake along with the disc caliper and finding a way to fit it within our system, but we are now looking at integrating a band brake for the main brake system. The reason we chose to look at the band brake is mostly due to being compact and simple system of brakes. I am currently looking in making sure the correct size of the brakes will function for our bogie and will quickly sketch the CAD models for the assembly.

@. (2014). Band Brakes. Retrieved October 25, 2016, from https://pigeonsblue.com/2014/04/25/band-brakes/

Week 7

This week I was tasked to look into fitting in the brakes in to the current bogie design. It's quite difficult to figure out how to add on the disc brakes we previously decided upon. Craig and I are continually reworking designs from what we initially created due to limitations in power, and space provided for the bogie. The space within the bogie is very limited from within as the steering and propulsion will take up most of the space.

We are considering placing the brakes on the shaft driving the chain. Spacing limits to how it is placed and will be further discussed once the design for propulsion can be decided and worked into the CAD models.

An idea I plan on bringing up to the team is implementing wheels with a drum brake attached. I'm approaching this design angle in order to see how much space that design could take up into the bogie system, and if it will be plausible option in case the disc brake design is proven to be too difficult. A big problem I see within the drum brake design is in cost. I will discuss with the team this upcoming week and get feedback on this option of design for the brakes. Our gantt chart will be updated accordingly tomorrow.

Additionally, this week I am beginning to organize our research, design ideas, and calculations in order for our second presentation upcoming on October 26th.

Week 6

Week 5 I spent most of my time working on the presentation and also talking among the half scale bogie team regarding integration of systems and what goals we must meet as a group.

For this week (week 6), I worked on calculations for the brake force needed for each of the bogie. Using parameters such as braking from 20 MPH to 0 MPH at a braking distance of 50 ft, along with using 17 degree incline. Using momentum equation and Newtown's 2nd law. Some of the calculations are seen in the image provided. The parameters might change depending on materials used (e.g. friction for wheel, weight adjustment, etc.). I will have to double check with my partner and the other sub-teams to make sure the parameters are set similar across the team.

Furthermore, the team will continue to discuss with Wayside and solar as to the power requirements needed to supply our propulsion and braking system.