COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF ACKERMAN-DRIVEN STEERING TRAPEZOID IN FSAE RACING

Abstract

The steering system is a pivotal component of Formula SAE (FSAE) racing cars, directly influencing their maneuverability and stability during dynamic competitions. This study focuses on enhancing the performance of FSAE steering systems, particularly emphasizing the crucial role of the steering trapezoid design. The steering trapezoid is responsible for maintaining and altering the car's direction, ensuring coordinated steering wheel movements during turns, and meeting the demanding requirements of FSAE events, such as the 8-word loop, high-speed obstacle avoidance, and endurance races. Scholars both nationally and internationally have extensively examined and researched various aspects of the FSAE racing car's structural design, with particular attention to the steering trapezoid. Prior work includes Song Xueqian et al., who developed a mathematical model for the frontdisconnected steering trapezoidal structure, utilizing angular displacement sensors to correct steering angles [3]. ShaoFei et al. achieved a design based on parallel Ackerman geometry for the steering trapezoid [4], while ZhangKai et al. introduced an optimization method for steering trapezoidal joints, improving speed and corner stability [5]. While these studies offer valuable insights into steering trapezoid design, they primarily focus on front-layout configurations, making their findings less applicable to the rear-disconnected steering trapezoid layout explored in this research. This paper delves deeper into the design and optimization of the rear-disconnected steering trapezoid, featuring the placement of the steering gear behind the front axle. Our investigation aims to address the unique challenges and advantages associated with this layout scheme, ultimately contributing to the advancement of FSAE racing car performance. By considering the specific requirements of FSAE competitions and the innovative rear-disconnected steering trapezoid configuration, we provide a comprehensive analysis and optimization approach that promises to enhance both the steering capabilities and overall performance of these high-performance racing cars