Reverse Engineering: Racing Pedals

Spring 2021 [Solidworks]

For the final project of this CAD class, we were asked to accurately create a model of an object in our lives using Solidworks. As a car enthusiast, I own a racing simulator which includes this pedal setup. The modeling included a complete teardown and analysis of the components of this assembly. Over the course of the semester, I used skills learned in this class to recreate the overall assembly to the best of my ability.

Part Analysis

In order to accurately recreate these components in CAD, I first had to understand how the motion of the parts affected the design choices. In this sense, I was challenged to balance the measurements I took with the functionality of the model. I had limited tools (calipers and a ruler) to measure he parts so I ran into several instances where I had to remeasure the actual part after finding an error in the CAD.

Engineering Drawings

Included in the submission for the end result were several engineering drawings. Above is the most difficult drawing, and because the part was originally fabricated using injection molding I had to include the drafts and unique geometries in the drawing. This part would typically not be created based on a drawing as the fabrication process is mostly automated.

Assembly Modeling

A large component of this project was ensuring that the individual parts modeled fit together and interact correctly. This meant using the same measured values for the parts which have to interact together. I also utilized global variables and in context modeling to model the springs in the top level assembly so they will update with the motion of the pedals.

Shortcomings

Included in some of the differences between this model and the actual parts are the gear teeth on the pedal and potentiometers. In order to ensure that my model would be functional, I had to prioritize creating properly meshing the teeth over the small measurements which I couldn't accurately collect with the given tools.

Dynamic Presentation

Rendered video showcasing the range of motion of the pedals in order to demonstrate the states of use of the model.