Project Summary

Because regenerative braking is utilized in FSAE endurance racing, brake bias must be changed when regenerative braking is activated. Traditionally, this requires the driver to repeatedly twist an adjustment knob while driving, which is both distracting and inefficient. To combat this, assisted brake biasing systems utilize a motor to move the bias bar, allowing the driver to adjust it simply by pushing a button. 

This biasing system involved defining an appropriate bias adjustment range, selecting and packaging actuation hardware, and integrating the system within the existing hydraulic braking architecture in compliance with FSAE safety regulations. In addition to system-level design, I was responsible for CAD integration, mounting design, and interface definition with driver controls and vehicle electronics. This design establishes a tunable braking platform intended for continued refinement and validation in future vehicle iterations.

Design Requirements

• Load Capacity: Must withstand compliance from the bias bar under maximum braking load

• Reliability: Must not compromise performance in the case of electronic failure

• Rules Compliance: Must be implemented into existing rules-compliant hydraulic brake circuits.

• Servicability: Allow for easy disassembly, maintenance, and part replacement

Project Details

• Year: 2025/2026

• Role: Driver Interface & Brakes Member/Lead

• Duration: 2 months

• Software: Fusion 360, Aruino IDE

• Materials: Various

Validation and Future Work

• Potential time savings in a competition endurance event

• The servo motor is tested and confirmed to be able to turn the bias bar reliably

• A stronger FDM mount will be printed using CF filament

• The full assembly will be manufactured, tested, and implemented for use on the VM26E EV