About the Lab:
This lab the group performed a series of tasks in order to begin to measure and evaluate the performance of an AEV. The group learned how to download data from the automatic control system, from the Arduino, correctly without losing data. The group learned how to convert this EEPROM Arduino data gathered into physical parameters using calculations and the provided MATLAB program to generate understandable data and graphs. The group wrote a test code for the AEV to run on the track then successfully downloaded the data gathered during this test run. The group began to attempt to change the program parameters to better fit the MCR. The group became familiar with the MATLAB based design analysis tool and upload wind tunnel data and Arduino data into this tool. The group was able to analyze the performance of the AEV operations and generate plots and graphs based on the data. These tasks were completed to equip the group with the abilities to analyze an AEV’s performance and to be able to generate data easily using the MATLAB design based tool and the Arduino automatic control system data.
Take-Aways:
This week the takeaway would be to make sure that all of the sensors are working before any code is tested. The group also takes away that each phase of the program created uses about 30 Joules of energy. The group recognizes that this amount of energy can be minimized with an optimization of the program coding of each phase. Another takeaway is how to use the Matlab Design Tool correctly, the group realized that in order to use this tool to generate meaningful data the Reflectance Sensor needed to function properly.
Schedule/Team-Meeting Notes:
This week the group members will finish the Lab 5 progress report by 2/16/2017 midnight and plan to meet on Thursday 5:00 pm at Hitchcock in order to discuss ideas and work on other project requirements. The group will have completed at least half of the PDR by Saturday 2/18 in order to be well ahead of the deadline due date for that aspect of the course. The group will learn how to use a concept scoring matrix and implement this tool into the design concepts and utilize different techniques while making decisions about the AEV design.
The team met on 2/16/2017 in Hitchcock Lab at 5:00 pm to discuss the completion of the progress report and preparation for Lab 5. The team assigned parts of the progress report to each team member. Each team member was assigned to do sample calculations. Austin was assigned to complete the phase breakdown and phase analysis as well as the situation for Looking Backwards. Kevin was assigned to the Analysis Test Data graphs and tables as well as Takeaways and Situation. David was assigned to Analysis of the results and to do sample calculations as well as convert data in the Excel spreadsheet. John was assigned the Looking Forwards Section as well as any other loose ends in the progress report. The team agreed to meet again the following Thursday to complete the PDR and the following progress report.
