Jeep Transmission Temperature Control Unit
This personal project developed from the need for effective transmission cooling after experiencing overheating issues in my 1997 Jeep Cherokee Sport. This project included an Arduino-based computing unit, various thermometers, and direct driver feedback and control through an onboard LCD screen and switches. The system measured temperatures at various parts of the transmission and cooling system. These temperatures are relayed to the LCD screen. The system also controls the transmission cooler fan and activates the fan when certain cooling parameters are reached.
Circuitry Conception
First, I needed to work on the logistics and circuitry diagram. This involved a deep dive and self-education of electrical engineering. The system uses Arduino pins as input and outputs, buck adapters for power, and solenoids for high-voltage control.
Heat Transfer
Before coding the device, cooling parameters needed to be established. These were determined from transmission specifications and heat transfer equations. Using an radiator style transmission cooler meant using forced convection heat transfer equations to model cooling rate.
Coding
After controls and parameters were designed, I began coding the Arduino controller. This required knowledge of C++ and control system logistics. Multiple iterations of the code were created and tested until a working script was generated.
Fabrication
Creating deadlines for final design, part ordering, and fabrication milestones. This kept the project on schedule, ensuring the vehicle would be ready for race weekend.
Fabrication
Building this system proved more complicated than expected. I ran into issues with electrical components, such as low voltage relays, buck adapters, and power units. After more research and redesign, a functioning prototype was created.
Finalization
Ensuring this system would work correctly and effectively, it needed thorough testing. This testing lead to important improvements. Additionally, the system needed to be waterproofed and vibration-resistant. This was done through gaskets, 3D-printed cases, and rubber insulation.
Final Product
The final product was incredibly successful. It allowed me to drive my Jeep without any concern of transmission overheating. The system effectively activated cooling, relayed cooling information, and allowed for driver control. This system is still functioning properly after 9 months and thousands of road miles.
Fabrication
Creating deadlines for final design, part ordering, and fabrication milestones. This kept the project on schedule, ensuring the vehicle would be ready for race weekend.
Skills Learned
This project taught me lessons in real world design and production of a functional, long term project. It gave me knowledge in electrical engineering, computer coding, and heat transfer. It also helped me to understand the conditions a real world project needs to survive--waterproofing, shock resistance, vibration damping, and reliability. I was also able to further develop my skills in soldering, wiring, 3D modeling and printing, and metalworking. Seeing how the issues of this project manifested allowed me to come up with unique solutions, and begin to see issues before they arise. This taught me preventative engineering, avoiding problems in the initial design to make the production and testing processes easier.