High-Level Architecture
How the system is structured
The electrical system uses a 12 V battery as the main source for all low-voltage loads. From this source, power is routed through a master kill switch and fusing before feeding branch circuits for engine control, the Raspberry Pi controller, lighting, and any auxiliary hardware. Each branch is sized and protected according to its expected current draw.
Major subsystems
- Power Input & Protection: Battery, master kill switch, main fuse, and primary distribution node.
- Engine & Control: Circuits for engine starting, ignition, and any required control logic or interlocks.
- Digital Dash & Controller: Raspberry Pi, displays, and supporting power conversion for the driver interface.
- Sensing & Telemetry: Sensors and data connections used for vehicle feedback and potential future logging.
Power Flow
From battery to loads
Power originates at the 12 V battery and flows through the master disconnect and main fuse before being distributed to individual branch circuits. This layout allows the team to isolate faults, replace components, and verify operation in stages during testing.
Typical path
- Battery → Master kill switch → Main fuse.
- Main fuse → Primary distribution node.
- Distribution node → engine/ignition, digital dash controller, and auxiliary loads.