As a team, we strive to find a cost-effective, time-effective, eco-friendly transportation system for the residents of Lynden.
We plan to use an AEV model in order to experiment with our final solution. Using Arduino, we will put an AEV on test tracks that include both inclines and train stops.
Our model will replicate a budget of $500K. In this budget we need to account for safety, resources and obviously cost.
We plan on using a sleek design that will minimally be affected by air drag, while simultaneously having a good connection to the track system. We will also need to program our autonomous AEV to be able to brake slowly enough that no potential riders can be injured.
Our innovative design will spark a paradigm shift in the world of transportation.
Our Approach to Advanced R&D:
Our group is tasked with the testing of both servo motors and reflectance sensors.
With regard to the servo motors, we plan on using the motor as a brake. Because the code can only really shut off power to the engines, it is virtually impossible to stop on command. By adding “FUN-TAK” to the servo motor arm, we aim to test how the servo can serve as a brake by testing whether to make contact with the wheels or the track.
Reflectance sensors are imperative in how the AEV will run. The sensors are a gauge to tell how far the AEV has gone and the distance we code will, in hand, be measured by these sensors. We aim to test how the sensors are affected by obstructions by experimenting with a clean sensor, a sensor marked by dirt and or fingerprints and finally sensors completely covered.
With our custom base and servo motor attached to the arm, our goal for the first performance test is not only to stop by the gate in time and then go, but also to be the most energy efficient method in doing so. With being able to brake fast, we will be able to run our AEV for less time, and so then less fuel would be used with our AEV.
Our Key Priorities:
Cost – We aim to stay either under budget, or just barely above it. It is imperative that Group C does not break the bank for this project because we aim to have a realistic solution to a real problem.
Group C only has one custom part along with additional given pieces
Safety- The main object of the AEV is to transport its passengers to their destination as safely as possible. It is crucial that Group C ensures that the AEV runs at a safe speed, and begins to break at an opportune time to ensure that the passengers are unharmed during their ride.
Efficiency / Accuracy – Our goal is to run the AEV and have it consistently stop and start at the same time, and speed to ensure that the code is as accurate and precise as possible to ensure the best results. (tests and results to be finalized after Lab 11 before performance test 1)
Aesthetics – Group C aims to make the AEV look visually inviting to make our riders as comfortable as possible.
Eco-Friendly- With the use of propellers and batteries, our AEV will have very minimal emissions compared to an average motor vehicle which will help the environment.