By Kelly Hering and Chris Culin ENGN 0040: Dynamics and Vibrations May 10, 2011
Objective:
design a vehicle to be powered by solar panels that can move up a ramp of various inclines calculate an ideal transmission ratio generate maximum power created using supplies provided reduce friction
Design Specifications:
Wheel radii 12.5-15 incline: 4.85 cm 7.5-10: 5.7 cm 2.5-5 incline: 6.75 cm front: 3.25 cm Car weight with panels: 350 g Gear ratio: 1:1/1,024 Panel distance from lights: 4.5" Chassis Length: 19 cm Width: 7 cm Materials used: foam board, perforated aluminum sheet, motor and gear box, threaded rod, nuts, bolts, wire, screws, velcro, collars, star washers, solar panels, rubber O rings
Design Calculations:
use solar panel equation to find I and V, as well as constants I0 and n. relate I and V to angular velocity using constants R and beta. relate I and V also to torque using given equations and motor data. find power using the relationship p=Tw graph power vs. omega to find maximum power for a given omega (.413 watts, ~1060 rad/s) assume operation at a higher angular velocity to account for loss in efficiency find velocity of vehicle using relationship p=m g v sin(theta) relate velocity of vehicle to angular velocity of motor using gear ratio 1: 1/4^5 approximate trend in wheel radius using this ratio
Conclusion:
We have built a vehicle successfully capable of climbing various inclines at relatively high speeds. 3 sec. to climb 15 incline Reduced friction and weight Idealized gear/wheel ratio Can easily attach and remove panels Simple construction