Braking system

The construction of the solar car’s braking system began with thoroughly studying what happens in the case of braking. The regulation of the competition requires the car to be able to brake within a certain distance in order to ensure the safety of all vehicles on public roads.

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The prototype is built with 3D-printed parts

Safety first

Based on a given braking distance the required delay can be calculated. The braking effect of each of the wheels depends on the car’s weight distribution as well as the components of the braking system. It needs to be considered that while braking a large part of the car’s weight is placed on the front axle.

The prototype finished product is built by milling aluminum

Regulations for driving on public roads

Based on the defined delay for the car to come to a stop the braking momentum for the wheels can be calculated. This then leads to the choice of braking discs, braking blocks and main cylinders of the braking system. Stated more simply, this way one can calculate the force that needs to be applied to the braking pedal in order to come to a stop within the defined distance.When the axial force to be applied on the main cylinders is known the braking pedal’s lever can be adjusted for the driver to be able to push down the pedal.

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The brake system consist of a independent system with three cylinders. Two for the front wheel and one for the back

The solar car’s breaking system is similar to what can be found in a commercial car, although specific components are chosen. For example the braking blocks used in bicycles are used for the back wheels while gokart braking blocks are used for the front wheels.