Propeller Testing:
The team decided to take a look at the front, back, and a combination of front and back for where the propellers are located on the AEV. We tested the distance the AEV traveled in each position. The front system had the propellers spinning in the back compared to the back spinning in the front. Two trials were conducted for each configuration and the motor speed was at a constant 25%. The data was collected using the data collection tool and analysis was done qualitatively by watching the AEV move down the track.
Front Position
Back Position
Front and Back Position
Based on the data we found the front position to be most effective. At the same power back and the front and back position could not move as far. In order to go the same distance, the AEV would need to exert more power lowering the efficiency of the vehicle. The back position went approximately half as far as the front method. The front position allowed the AEV to move stronger along the track with more speed and moved further along. The front and back position were not as effective due to the fact it didn’t move as far on either run as the front position.
Marketability:
The goal of smart city Columbus is to create a mode of transportation that is going to make the world greener. In order to improve how good transportation is the AEV needs to not use as much energy each run. The front position moved to furthest with the same power at each configuration, therefore, the front position will be efficient and be green for Columbus.