Performance Test 1

Data:

Power vs. Time

Graph 1: Performance Test 1 – Power vs. Time

Analysis:

The group tested the original design constructed from stock parts.  Since the original design did not incorporate a servo motor for mechanical braking, the code used on test day was written to utilize a power boost from the motors to propel the AEV up the ramp before cutting all power and allowing it to coast to the gate.  This was successful as the AEV passed the performance test without any penalties.

Due to time constraints, data from this run was not saved.  However, two weeks later the test was re-done unofficially using the newly designed AEV.  Data from this run was recorded and can be seen above.  The AEV was programmed to travel 30 marks before applying the servo brake.  After pausing for 8 seconds, the AEV proceeded through the gate at 25% power for 3.1 seconds.  Approximately 63.7 joules (Appendix C) of energy was consumed during this run.  When projecting the overall energy consumption for the final performance test, this was considered a reasonable amount of energy used for this portion of the run.

Arduino Code:

//AEV motor’s are reversed so it can go forward

reverse(4);

reverse(1);

//All motors at 32% power until 300 marks to get to the gate

motorSpeed(4,32);

goToAbsolutePosition(300);

brake(1);

brake(2);

rotateServo(50);

//Motors stop and pause for 8 seconds at the gate

motorSpeed(4,0);

goFor(8);

rotateServo(0);

//All motors at 32% power for 3.1 seconds to pass through the gate

motorSpeed(4,32);

goFor(3.1);