Major Systems and Components of an Automobile

Introduction

• The unit discusses the major systems and components of an automobile.
• Automobile industry growth has led to a rise in the auto component industry.
• India is a global hub for auto components due to low-cost labor, established manufacturing, and quality production.
• Components industry divided into five segments:
  • Engine parts
  • Drive transmission and steering parts
  • Suspension and brake parts
  • Electrical parts
  • Body and chassis

Session 1: Chassis and Auto Body

Chassis

• Main structure of the vehicle, also known as the carrying unit.
• Includes: Steel frame, engine, transmission system, front/rear axle, steering, suspension, wheels, tires, and brakes.
• Functions: Carry vehicle weight, withstand torque and stress, support motion.

Automobile Body

• Integral or frameless construction.
• Made of metal or fiberglass.
• Needs to be lightweight, have long fatigue life, and provide passenger space.

Session 2: Engine and Its Components

Engine Overview

• Converts chemical energy to mechanical energy.
• Types: Internal Combustion (IC) and External Combustion (EC).
• Spark Ignition (Petrol) and Compression Ignition (Diesel) engines.

Components

• Cylinder: Main body of the engine with cylinder liners.
• Cylinder Head: Houses combustion chamber and valves.
• Piston and Piston Rings: Assists in power transmission.
• Crankshaft: Converts reciprocating motion to rotary motion.
• Camshaft, Inlet/Exhaust Valves: Control air and fuel intake/output.
• Fuel Injection System: Injects fuel into engines.

Session 3: Lubrication System

Importance

• Reduces friction and wear.
• Provides cooling, cushioning, and sealing effects.

Objectives

• Minimize power loss and wear of moving parts.
• Secondary purposes include cooling effect and cleaning action.

Session 4: Cooling System

Functions

• Remove excess heat from the engine.
• Maintain constant engine temperature.
• Use liquid cooling with water circulation.

Session 5: Fuel Supply System

Overview

• Delivers the air-fuel mixture to the engine.
• Petrol engines use carburetors, diesel engines use injection systems.

Components

• Fuel Tank and Lines
• Fuel Pump and Filter
• Air Cleaner
• Fuel Injector

Session 6: Transmission System

Overview

• Supplies engine output to drive wheels.
• Consists of clutch, gearbox, and propeller shaft.

Functions

• Vary torque ratio between engine and wheels.
• Provide neutral position and reverse gear.

Session 7: Front and Rear Axle

Propeller Shaft

• Transmits power from engine to wheels.
• Includes universal and slip joints.

Front/Rear Axle

• Supports vehicle weight.
• Transmits driving and braking torque.

Session 8: Steering and Suspension System

Steering

• Controls vehicle direction.
• Includes steering wheel, gear, and linkages.
• Requirements: Accurate, easy to handle, minimal effort.

Suspension

• Connects vehicle to wheels with springs, shock absorbers.
• Functions: Provide comfort, handle road irregularities.

Session 9: Wheel, Tyre, and Brake

Wheel

• Supports vehicle weight, absorbs shocks.
• Includes rim and tire.

Tyre

• Provides cushioning effect.
• Types: Solid, tube, tubeless.

Brake

• Stops vehicle using friction.
• Types: Foot, hand, drum, disc, power brakes.

Session 10: Electrical/Electronic and Air Conditioning Systems

Electrical/Electronic

• Starting, ignition, generating, lighting systems.

Air Conditioning

• Provides temperature control in vehicles.
• Components: Compressor, condenser, evaporator.

Session 11: Active and Passive Safety

Safety Devices

• Safety glass, seat belts, airbags.
• Energy absorbers for impact.

Security Devices

• Alarm systems, electronic immobilizers, tracking systems.

Conclusion

• Understanding these systems and components is crucial for the maintenance and operation of automobiles.