Ackermann Steering

For my second engineering design class, my team was tasked with designing and building a functional prototype lunar rover. With a strong interest in motorsport and vehicle dynamics, I chose to lead the development of the rover’s steering system. After researching different steering geometries, I selected a pro-Ackermann configuration for its turning performance and mechanical simplicity.

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I designed the steering mechanism in SolidWorks using a servo-powered rack-and-pinion system connected to custom steering knuckles. The design combined stock components with additive manufacturing to reduce cost and speed up prototyping. I also created engineering drawings for the custom parts.

Before purchasing components, I used FEA and motion analysis to check the design, clearances, and steering geometry. I also developed a MATLAB torque model to estimate the torque needed to turn the wheels and used the results to select a suitable servo motor.

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One of the main challenges was systems integration. The steering system had to fit within the chassis while working alongside the drivetrain, electronics, and other rover components. This required clear and consistent communication across the team throughout the CAD, assembly, and testing process.

The final rover met its original performance goals while staying within budget. The project gave me hands-on experience with mechanical design, CAD, FEA, MATLAB, prototyping, additive manufacturing, mechatronics, testing, and systems integration.