Unit 3642: Automotive Engineering Technology

1. Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology

• Overview of the field
• Historical development and milestones
• Importance within the automotive industry
• Applications and career opportunities

2. Engine Design and Performance

• Fundamentals of internal combustion engines (ICEs)
  • Types of ICE: gasoline, diesel
• Key engine components and their functions
• Engine design principles
• Factors affecting engine performance
  • Compression ratio
  • Fuel type and combustion process
  • Engine tuning and efficiency

3. Vehicle Dynamics and Handling

• Principles of vehicle dynamics
• Suspension systems
  • Types: independent, dependent, active suspension
  • Role in ride comfort and handling
• Steering mechanisms
  • Types: rack and pinion, recirculating ball
• Factors influencing vehicle handling and stability
  • Weight distribution
  • Center of gravity
  • Tire characteristics

4. Automotive Electronics and Control Systems

• Role of electronics in modern vehicles
• Engine Control Units (ECUs)
• Key sensors and actuators
  • Oxygen sensors, throttle position sensors, etc.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems
• Diagnostic and communication protocols (e.g., OBD-II)

5. Alternative Powertrains and Sustainable Technologies

• Electric Vehicles (EVs)
  • Battery types and management systems
• Hybrid Vehicles
  • Parallel and series hybrid configurations
• Fuel Cells and Hydrogen technologies
• Sustainable practices in automotive engineering
  • Emission reductions
  • Lightweight materials

6. Materials and Manufacturing Processes in Automotive Engineering

• Common automotive materials
  • Metals, composites, plastics
• Material properties affecting vehicle performance
• Manufacturing processes
  • Casting, forging, stamping, additive manufacturing
• Impact on safety, efficiency, and cost

7. Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness

• Principles of vehicle safety design
• Crashworthiness and energy absorption
• Occupant protection systems
  • Airbags, seatbelt systems, crumple zones
• Regulations and safety standards
  • NCAP, FMVSS, Euro NCAP

8. Automotive Testing and Validation

• Importance of testing in automotive engineering
• Types of testing
  • Performance testing
  • Durability and reliability testing
  • Emissions testing
• Compliance with regulatory standards

9. Automotive Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Basic maintenance procedures
  • Oil change, brake inspection, fluid levels
• Diagnostic techniques
  • Use of diagnostic tools and software
• Troubleshooting common automotive issues
  • Engine misfire, electrical faults, suspension noise

10. Emerging Trends in Automotive Engineering

• Connected vehicle technologies
• Autonomous driving systems
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications
• Future implications for the automotive industry