During this lab, the team programmed the sample AEV and tested it on the classroom track for the first time. After observing the vehicle’s behavior, team members discussed the strengths and weaknesses of individual designs and compared them using concept screening and scoring. These design decision making techniques allowed the team to prioritize design features and make selective decisions about their final design. Scientists and engineers use these methods to evaluate success criteria during the design phase. This enables them to make informed decisions regarding the future of their design.
Figure 1: Scoring Table
Figure 2: Screening Table
These test procedures and design evaluations have made it possible for the group to proceed constructing a vehicle with a better understanding of important design features. Without these experiences, the group would proceed with guesswork and likely make wasteful decisions. These tests established a baseline on how the standard AEV handled and operated on the test track. The baseline test run allowed group members to evaluate the designs on the concept screening table. The baseline also allowed established the importance of the success criteria. This allowed for improvements to be noted for the final design.