Page 169 - KA Sensors 2020 Motorsport Catalog_Neat

Comments for Motorsport Sensor Selection

Understand the expectations of the sensor

Race teams often overestimate their sensor needs by choosing a product at the top end of the professional spectrum
that may be too advanced for their specific application—or perhaps too general and incapable of reporting the required
data. Sensors, therefore, represent a category whose value is enhanced through the guidance of a knowledgeable
retailer or engine

Quote from Rob Knowles - KA USA:

Motorsports sensor manufacturers, most of whom have considerable knowledge and experience with different vehicle
applications, can be an especially valuable resource. “The racing retailers and race engine builders should align
themselves for guidance with the actual manufacturer,” said Robert Knowles from KA Sensors, Danbury, Connecticut.
“Most manufacturers provide technical experts at least at the factory who are capable of discussing in-depth the use of
the sensors they manufacture. Many hours of frustration and time can be saved talking directly with the manufacturer.”

Quote from Peter Trevor - KA UK:

Some of the most important measurements that are now readily available will be around the tires and suspension,
according to Peter Trevor of KA Sensors' UK headquarters in Grantham, Lincolnshire. Tire pressure and
temperatures can be measured internally using wireless sensors, he reported, while tire surface is measured using
infrared sensor and cameras. Suspension position is measured using accelerometers and linear position sensors. In
addition, torque measurements are now available as a more reliable and cost-effective sensor system when wireless
technology is used, he said.

KA Sensors is upgrading many sensors to have higher performance and durability. "These include pressure sensors
such as ASH, ASHT, ASU and ASN," said Trevor. "These are used in NASCAR, lndyCar, off road, drag racing,
RallyCross and many more. Also wireless sensors for torque measurements on drive shafts, which allow
real-time power monitoring. During 2017 we are rolling out CAN enabled sensors, which will enable more sensors to be
used and simplify wiring looms."

Quote from Rob Knowles - KA USA:

“Users are becoming more aware of the value of high performance from sensors,” agreed Rob Knowles of KA Sensors,
Danbury, CT. “"Reliability under extreme temperatures has always been understood but with higher demands on
accuracy, users are mounting the sensors in even harsher locations. For example, direct engine mount sensors can be
subjected to vibrations up to 100 Khz and temperatures of 300°F. This means that manufacturers of dedicated
motorsport sensors are constantly redesigning the products to meet these high demands. Lighter weight is also
becoming more important. While top level professional teams are less price conscious, for teams in lower level
formula or grassroots racing the cost usually outweighs the performance."

Also, technology from other industries is impacting development of motorsports sensors, as crossover technology from
military and aviation industries, for example, are utilized in the motorsports arena

See over for information on Laser Sensors

1 of 2