Tradeoff Analysis · Prototyping · Design Decisions
Modular RC Car Platform
A ground-up mechanical platform developed through drivetrain tradeoffs, tolerance decisions, fabrication, and iterative physical testing.
The challenge
Build a vehicle students could continuously improve.
Many student RC projects begin with pre-built kits or emphasize software. I wanted a mechanical platform that exposed the engineering decisions behind chassis layout, drivetrain configuration, steering geometry, component interfaces, and assembly.
- My role
- Lead mechanical designer and club president
- Methods
- Autodesk Inventor, tolerance analysis, 3D printing, physical testing
- Output
- Parametric chassis + 10 custom components
Engineering decisions
Modular by design, not as an afterthought.
I developed a parametric chassis, custom wheel and mounting interfaces, servo steering, and a configurable drivetrain. I evaluated gear ratios against torque, acceleration, and drivability, then refined component fit and clearances through tolerance analysis, fabrication, assembly, and testing.
Modular interfaces allowed individual subsystems to be redesigned without rebuilding the entire vehicle. The result became a hands-on platform used in biweekly club meetings, where members could test changes to wheels, steering, sensors, and drivetrain components while preserving the core chassis.