Research was conducted using the original base design and a T-shaped base. This research was used to determine which base would be the most aerodynamic and energy efficient. Figures 1 and 2 display the AEV with the original base design and with the T-shaped design.
Figure 1: T-Shape Base
Figure 2: Original Base
Using the T-Shaped base, the two trapezoidal wings were no longer needed. In addition, the zip ties replaced the battery support materials. As a result, the reduction in these materials decreased the weight of the AEV and decreased the cost of materials for the AEV. To compare the energy efficiency of the AEV, the team conducted a full performance test using the T-shape base and the original base. The course for this research may be found in Figure 3. These trials were conducted twice for base and the total energy consumption and time were recorded.
Figure 3: Final Performance Test Track
The T-shape base used less energy than the original base. However, the AEV completed the run in the same period of time with T-shape and original base. On average, the original base used around 8 Joules of energy less than the T-shaped base, which cost around $4,000 less than the T-shape base. Finally, the cost of materials to construct the base was calculated using the cost worksheet. Please note, these calculations do not include the base cost for energy and track use and only include the cost of the materials to construct the base. As a result, this cost does not include other materials, such as the Arduino that are common between both designs.
Further results regarding energy and time efficiency may be found in Figure 4 and results regarding energy, time, material, and total cost may be found in Figure 5.
Figure 4: Energy and Time Used by Base
Figure 5: Base Cost Comparison
As a result, the original base will be used in place of the T-shape base because it is slightly more energy efficient despite being more heavy and using more materials.