Feature: Sensors
After collecting data, the team used
Mantracourt’s T24 integrated logging and viewing software to check the car’s centre of gravity, which determined whether the weight of the car was distributed properly on each wheel. With wireless technology, the racing
team converted voltage readings from sensors to engineering values – i.e., high-precision readings that allowed them to make fine adjustments to the angle and weight distribution of the vehicle for optimal performance. The racing team can now test track performance and make small adjustments based on the car’s feedback.
Measuring torque Accurate measurement of torque in a rotating system such as a racing car can be challenging. However, Mantracourt used the T24 to monitor torque for the University of Quebec’s Ecole de Technologie Superieure (ÉTS) Formula SAE race team entering the international engineering student competition. The race team had designed a new
differential assembly for their prototype car and, whilst theoretical calculations had predicted positive results, further development required data acquisition and validation. Furthermore, the system behaviour needed to be monitored, because several discrepancies emerged during the driving tests. Typical strain gauge installation to the
driveshaft to measure torque was not an option because of the rotating shaft. The shape and size of the car’s rear was also a problem, making it difficult to install a standard monitoring system. Since the team was on a tight budget and deadline, this excluded a bespoke solution. So, strain gauges were installed on each driveshaft, connected to the T24. To improve signal integrity, a T24- AO1 wireless receiver was added, and connected to the car’s data acquisition system. Calibration was conducted with a known load when static, using Mantracourt configuration software. The ÉTS team achieved considerable success in several international
Centre of Gravity LOG100
importance for the safety of the driver, as the cockpit of a race car is known to be one of the noisiest environments around, due to wind noise and a deafening (140dB) engine. Measurement of the door seal gap area
Mantracourt T24 wireless module
was previously performed with time- consuming tools and special methods. The automotive OEM wanted a faster measurement system that was capable of measuring the gaps between two adjoining panels, with instant visual display of the data, which could then be stored digitally for further analysis and improvements. The OEM used the WISEgap system,
Mantracourt T24 wireless module in situ
competitions, securing first and third place against fierce competition.
Preventing water leakage and wind noise For a different automotive racing team, wireless technology was used to improve the accuracy of the door seal gap measurement to prevent water leakage and wind noise in the vehicle. Limiting wind noise is of utmost
incorporated with T24 wireless telemetry technology. This is a sensor- controlled wireless gap measurement system, allowing multiple modes of measurement: static, real-time dynamic and high-speed dynamic. The flexible nature of the WISEgap system with T24 meant the OEM could work with all the different models and closures for the calibration. Using this system improved accuracy and saved time for setup and measurement. What once took two hours per door now takes five minutes. By wirelessly measuring door seal
gaps, the motor team was able to prevent water leakage and wind noise issues in all stages of production, as well as conduct previously challenging analysis and testing on the car.
www.electronicsworld.co.uk February 2023 33
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