The purpose of this experiment was to perform a test run on the outer track in order to use the information with the MATLAB Design Analysis tool. This tool allows the team to quickly run several test runs and analyze the efficiency of the data. During this lab the team ran the required test run so that the data could be recorded and inputted into the MATLAB tool. After this test, it was noted that the AEV ran for a distance that was less than what was specified by the Arduino Program. In order to adjust for this, the team increased the percent power that was delivered to the motor. Although this would increase the amount of power needed by the device, it was important to understand this programming or instrumental error.
With the recorded data, the team was able to make two comparisons. The first was a graph of power vs. time. This graph was helpful because it revealed the points in the program where the greatest amount of power was used. This graph was coupled with the second comparison of power vs. distance. Although the AEV did not travel the expected distance designated by the program, this graph allowed for a more confident analysis of the effect of different commands on the device efficiency.
Analysis of these two graphs allowed the team to come to the conclusion that the motorSpeed command used the most energy and should be reduced in the program. With this decision, the team was able to make better programming decisions in the future for the most efficient program and AEV.
Executive Summary 7: