Diseño e implementación del circuito eléctrico para un prototipo de bajo consumo energético que participará en la competencia estudiantil Shell Eco-Marathon

Abstract

The sizing of the electrical wiring is a crucial aspect in the construction of a racing prototype, as it ensures a reliable and safe power supply to all vehicle components. When sizing the wiring, several factors must be taken into account, such as the current that will flow through the cables, the distance they must travel and the type of cable to be used. First, the maximum current that will flow through the cables must be determined. This can be calculated by adding up the currents of all the electrical devices in the vehicle. It is important to add a safety margin to this calculation to ensure that the system can withstand high current peaks, e.g. due to component failure. Once the maximum current has been calculated, the appropriate wire diameter must be selected. Smaller diameter cables can heat up and cause a voltage drop, which can damage vehicle components or cause a failure. Therefore, a cable with a suitable diameter must be selected to handle the expected current and to avoid voltage drop and heating. In addition, the distance the cables must travel is also an important factor when sizing them. Long cables have higher electrical resistance, which can lead to a voltage drop or a decrease in current. To minimize this effect, thicker cables can be used or amplifiers can be installed to increase the power of the electrical signal. Finally, it is necessary to choose the right type of cable for the vehicle. Copper wires are a common choice for high-current applications because of their low electrical resistance, while aluminum wires are lighter and cheaper, but have higher electrical resistance. There are also braided cables, which have greater flexibility and are suitable for applications that require frequent movements.