Unit 3578: Automotive Engineering Technology

1. Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology

• Definition and scope of automotive engineering technology
• Historical development and milestones in automotive engineering
• Current advancements and trends
• Roles and responsibilities of automotive engineers in industry

2. Engine Performance and Analysis

• Fundamentals of internal combustion engines
  • Engine types and configurations
  • Thermodynamics of engine cycles
• Performance parameters: power, torque, efficiency
• Diagnostic tools and techniques
  • Dynamometers
  • Engine control unit (ECU) data analysis
• Optimization strategies for engine efficiency and power output

3. Vehicle Dynamics and Handling

• Overview of vehicle dynamics
• Suspension systems
  • Types of suspensions
  • Suspension geometry
• Steering mechanisms
  • Types of steering systems
  • Steering dynamics
• Tire technology
  • Tire construction
  • Impact of tire characteristics on handling
• Factors influencing vehicle stability and control

4. Automotive Electrical Systems

• Fundamentals of automotive electrical circuits
• Wiring diagrams and interpretation
• Batteries and charging systems
  • Types of batteries
  • Alternators and regulators
• Electronic Control Units (ECUs)
  • Functions and integration
  • Sensors and actuators

5. Fuel Systems and Emissions Control

• Fuel delivery system designs
  • Carburetors vs. fuel injection
  • Fuel pumps and filters
• Emission control devices
  • Catalytic converters
  • Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
  • On-board diagnostics (OBD)
• Regulatory environment and impact on automotive design

6. Automotive Materials and Manufacturing

• Materials used in automotive construction
  • Metals (steel, aluminum)
  • Polymers and composites
• Manufacturing processes
  • Casting, forging, stamping
  • Assembly line principles
• Quality control and testing
• Innovations in materials science for automotive applications

7. Vehicle Diagnostics and Maintenance

• Common vehicle issues and troubleshooting approaches
• Routine maintenance tasks
  • Oil changes, brake inspections, tire maintenance
• Diagnostic tools
  • OBD-II scanners
  • Multimeters
• Preventative maintenance strategies

8. Automotive Safety and Crash Testing

• Principles of automotive safety design
• Crash testing procedures and standards
• Safety features
  • Airbags
  • Seat belts
  • Electronic stability control
• Impact of safety design on occupant protection

9. Emerging Technologies in Automotive Engineering

• Electric vehicles (EVs)
  • Battery technologies
  • Charging infrastructure
• Autonomous driving systems
  • Sensors and AI integration
• Connected vehicles and telematics
• Future trends and industry implications