There are two methods to be considered when bringing the AEV to a stop. The first method tested was “Coasting” and the second method was “Power Braking.” Each method was tested for consistency, as well as power consumption.
Coasting
Coasting is a method where the motors of the moving AEV are shut off, and the AEV is allowed to come to a complete stop without any power in the motors.
Benefits
- Lower power consumption. The Coasting method used an average of 25.8184 J, while the Power Braking method consumed an average of 35.2476 J.
Drawbacks
- Lower consistency than the Power Breaking Method. The probability that the AEV will stop within a 3-inch margin using the Coasting method is 55.36% while the Power Breaking method yields a 67.66% probability.
Power Braking
Power Braking is a method where the motors of the moving AEV are shut off and then reversed while the AEV comes to a stop. The reversed motors apply a force in the opposite direction of the AEV’s initial movement, which assists the process of stopping the AEV.
Benefits
- Greater consistency in stopping distance than the Coasting method. The Power Breaking method is 12.30% more likely to stop within the desired 3-inch margin.
Drawbacks
- Higher power consumption than the Coasting method. The Power Braking method consumed an average of 9.4292 J more energy than the Coasting method.
Conclusion
Our team has decided to prioritize consistency over power efficiency. Based on this decision the Power Braking method has been chosen to be used in future development. From our research in the laboratory, our team has calculated that the Power Braking Method is 12.30% more likely to stop within the desired 3-inch margin. Fulfilling this requirement will be crucial in the future development of the AEV.
