Our Mission
2022 marks the first year that TCNJ is going to Baja SAE competition with a 4WD vehicle. Our goals for each subsystem are to be met within SAE standards and to be the most competitive vehicle there is.
Other goals/challenges for the overall car include:
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Follow SAE Guidelines
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Integration of Subsystems
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Lightweight Design
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Aesthetically Pleasing
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Fully Functional for Competition
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Build Off of 2020 - 2021’s Mini Baja Mule
Frame
The primary goal for the 2021-2022 frame is to design a tubular frame that not only conforms to the rules set forth by SAE but also effectively and efficiently holds all subsystems. In order to achieve this goal, a constant line of communication will be established between all team members to make sure that there are no issues with regard to integration. This will also be the first complete frame to accommodate four-wheel drive, extra care will be taken to reduce any unnecessary enlargements to the frame. Continually, all drivers must be able to comfortably fit within the frame therefore much collaboration will occur with the student responsible for the ergonomics. Another goal of the frame is to be as lightweight as possible while also being able to withstand front, rear, and side impacts without injuring the driver.
This year's vehicle is going to have a part-time 4WD system that allows the rear to be locked and the front wheels to be locked part-time. Using the engine required by SAE (Briggs & Stratton 10 HP engine) a CVT is implemented to allow for the needed low-gear torque for the hill-climb and the needed top speed of the endurance race. The proposed top speed is 38 mph to ensure a competitive vehicle. This year, the engine will be seated lower in the vehicle bringing the center of mass closer to the ground to prevent roll over on the hill-climb competition.
Powertrain
Front Suspension
The goal is to research, design, and manufacture a front suspension for a single passenger off-road vehicle. The front suspension, including the steering system, must be able to withstand the rigors of the competition set forwarded by SAE to put the TCNJ Motorsports in the best position to win. As team manager, the goal is to make sure that the team meets the deadlines set forward by the Team, Senior Project 1 & 2, and SAE.
The primary task for the rear suspension of the 2022 SAE Baja competition vehicle is to design and manufacture a fully operational and safe suspension system that can perform the specified needs of the upcoming competition. This will be done by researching various shocks, suspension geometry, and the previous team’s performance data. After preliminary research and analysis another objective is to improve suspension travel through proper material selection and the lengthening of critical components. There will be a redesign of the wheel carrier, mounting locations, and the three-link system to decrease the stress on the vehicle while reducing the overall weight of the system.
Rear Suspension
Ergonomics/Pedals/Brakes
The goal for the ergonomics and braking section is to fit all team members comfortably and safely into the vehicle without adding unnecessary weight. This entails making sure the integration of all the subsystems is within comfortable limits for the driver. The goal of the braking system is to successfully bring the vehicle to a complete stop within a certain range of distance without harming the driver. Research on the human body/anthropometrics, the force produced by the human body, and the effects of master cylinders is to be completed. With an emphasis on working closely with the other team members, a complete design plan shall be created to ensure an ergonomically sound end product regardless of driver size.