This week, the team worked to increase the AEV’s energy efficiency. The team’s main idea for increasing energy efficiency was to adjust the amount of power the AEV motors received. In total, the team tested 25%, 28%, 30%, and 32% power. In order to determine how energy efficient each power percentage was, the team adjusted the variables in the code (Appendix B) to ensure the AEV completed the run. The team then ran the vehicle on the track, observed the run, and then examined EEPROM data.
Additionally, the team cut off additional parts of the AEV and removed some of the metal chain used to connect to the R2 cargo. Based on the results of previous labs, the team theorized a lighter AEV would require less power to start moving. Overall, all of these procedures were done to ensure the AEV would be energy efficient for the Rebel Alliance.