Initial Designs
Each member in the group was required to design an AEV on orthographic paper that could be later used for performance tests in attempt to make the AEV run more quickly and conserve more energy. The individual designs can be seen below.
Nick’s design
Nick’s design implements a very narrow base that allows for great aerodynamics along with a lightweight design.
Dillon’s design
Dillon’s design is well rounded and creates a fast, efficient AEV. It has good aerodynamics, and is fairly light in weight. It also includes a servo brake to allow the AEV to stop more quickly.
Ethan’s design
Ethan’s design is heavier than the others, but a top aerodynamic shell allows the AEV to travel much smoother.
Team M ideally wanted to use Nick’s design with some of Dillon’s ideas like the servo brake. However the custom part needed for Nick’s design never got made in time so a slightly modified version of the reference AEV was used for all performance tests and research.
Final DesignÂ
The structure is similar to the reference AEV except for the metal piece added on the front and the location of the Arduino. The 90 degree metal bracket is what was used for the AEV to attach to the caboose with a magnet. The Arduino had to be moved back so that it was at least 2 inches away from the magnet because magnets can damage circuits.