Methodologies were formulated by each Team in Dreese Data Systems to devise plans that could be implemented by any AEV researcher to test an acquire data that will further the devlopment of designs and improvements. Team L produced the following:
Reflectance Sensor Test:
Methodology Plan: Reflectance Sensor Methodology-132t5ye
Test Runs (Sensor) (1)-1oosfmm
Goal: To determine the accuracy of the reflectance sensors.
Results: The reflectance sensors had an error of 1-2 inches for 5 ft of recording.
Improvements: A more conclusive test could include letting the AEV run as far as possible (to gain more data) and recording the distance it stopped at with what it the Arduino records. Testing the wheels at different distances to the sensor can also work. Also testing if infrared light affects it by exposing it to a source even without spinning the wheels.
Push Vs. Pull:
Methodology Plan: Push_Pull Methodology-2nshkxf
Code:
reverse(4);
motorSpeed(4,30);
goToRelativePosition(-340);
brake(4);
reverse(4);
motorSpeed(4,25);
goFor(1.5);
brake(4);
Data:
Push Test 1(14 ft. No Incline):
PushTest14NoIncline_Speed-2a2i7ot
Pull Test 1 (14 ft. No Incline):
PullTest14NoIncline_Power-120t27s
PullTest14NoIncline_Speed-22e30mw
Goal: To compare power used for Push vs. Pull AEV setup.
Results: The push method averages about 4 watts of power throughout 4 meters of travel, while the pull method averages 6 watts of power throughout 4 meters of travel. The pull method uses 50% more power than the pull, while not producing any improved features.
Other Observation: Both types of vehicles travel at similar speeds throughout the run, both taking 9 seconds to travel 14 ft. Despite the different method of moving and differing power usage, the velocity is not affected by these variables.
Servo Testing:
Methodology Plan: Servo Methodology-2g4fl6o
Goal: To test the power efficiency and accuracy of servo in comparison to reverse-propeller braking.
Results:
-The servo braking error was 5 inches while the reverse-propeller’s error averaged at 1.2 ft.
The reverse-propeller had much more speed fluctuation between .4-.8 m/s, while the servo system averaged its speed around .4 m/s.
The power consumption of both vehicle types was similar, with the reverse-propeller vehicle using 1 watt more on average and spiking to 14 watts.