Hardware-Software Co-Design of Integrative Telemetry System for Off-Road Racing Vehicle

Abstract

The University of Arizona Baja Wildcat Racing Team’s integrative off-road telemetry system merged modular firmware, custom digitization circuits, and a Python-based GUI with GPU acceleration. The system leveraged I2C, SPI, and UART wired protocols for efficient communications, while also incorporating LoRa for seamless wireless transmission. The system's sensor suite included IMUs, GPS, Hall-Effect sensors, and pressure transducers. It collected comprehensive operational data such as RPMs, positional data, and brake actuation performance. The system improved situational awareness through an alert system designed to notify the driver of potential car tip-over scenarios. This integration of hardware upgrades and software advancements demonstrated advancements in telemetry technology, drove strategic decision-making, and elevated the team’s competitive off-road racing dynamics.