In Systems Analysis 2, Group B began analyzing data from the reflectance sensors to explore new physical parameters and to calculate performance characteristics of the AEV system. In addition to the parameters studied in Systems Analysis 1, the group also explored new parameters in the context of a new lab scenario, outlined in Figure 1 of the Appendix. These parameters include distance, velocity, energy, RPM, and performance characteristics relating to efficiency. This process allow the team to determine important parameters relevant to completing the mission efficiently. Similarly, any team researching the efficiency of a system would use this process to identify critical parameters and analyze a system’s behavior.
The team has demonstrated the efficiency of each command utilized to program the AEV. The peak in kinetic energy, and velocity resulted in phase 2 of the phase breakdown. Motor speed commands over larger distances can be expected to show a greater velocity and kinetic energy. The supplied power through this phase maintained more of a consistency than many of the other phases. The propulsion efficiency proved to be higher, and more consistent than some of the other phases as well. Running the motor at a constant power over large distances will help achieve maximum efficiency during the mission. To conserve needed energy, one should avoid rapid acceleration commands over short periods of time. The reverse commands sent a spike in the supplied power, this power usage could be avoided with the use of brake commands. In conclusion accelerating over a larger time span, running at a constant power over larger distances, and utilizing the brake command proved to be the most efficient commands.