Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand the historical development and evolution of automotive engineering.
- Explain the principles and operation of internal combustion engines and alternative powertrains.
- Analyze vehicle dynamics and the impact of materials and manufacturing processes on vehicle performance.
- Describe automotive electronics, control systems, and emerging autonomous vehicle technologies.
- Evaluate vehicle safety features, crashworthiness, and environmental sustainability in automotive design.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 2126: Fundamentals of Automotive Engineering
1. History of Automotive Engineering
- Early inventions and milestones
- Evolution of automotive technology through the 20th century
- Key innovators and manufacturers
- Impact of historical developments on modern vehicles
2. Internal Combustion Engines (ICE)
- Basic principles of operation
- Types of internal combustion engines (e.g., gasoline, diesel)
- Engine components and their functions
- Thermodynamics and combustion processes
- Engine performance parameters and efficiency
- Emissions and regulatory considerations
3. Vehicle Dynamics
- Fundamentals of vehicle motion (acceleration, braking, cornering)
- Suspension systems and their role
- Tire dynamics and grip
- Steering mechanisms
- Stability and control systems
4. Automotive Materials and Manufacturing
- Common materials used in vehicle construction (steel, aluminum, composites)
- Material properties relevant to automotive design
- Manufacturing processes (casting, forging, stamping, welding)
- Advances in lightweight materials and their benefits
5. Automotive Electronics and Control Systems
- Overview of electronic control units (ECUs)
- Sensors and actuators in vehicles
- Engine management systems
- Anti-lock braking systems (ABS), traction control, and stability control
- Infotainment and connectivity technologies
6. Alternative Powertrains
- Electric vehicles (EVs): architecture and operation
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs)
- Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs)
- Advantages and challenges of alternative powertrains
7. Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness
- Vehicle safety design principles
- Passive safety systems (seat belts, airbags, crumple zones)
- Active safety systems
- Crash testing methods and standards
- Regulatory requirements for safety
8. Autonomous Vehicles
- Levels of vehicle autonomy
- Key technologies (sensors, LiDAR, radar, cameras)
- Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication
- Challenges in autonomous vehicle development
- Ethical and legal considerations
9. Environmental Impact and Sustainability in Automotive Engineering
- Environmental challenges related to vehicles
- Emission control technologies
- Life cycle assessment of vehicles
- Sustainable manufacturing practices
- Future trends toward green mobility
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