Initial Group Design

Pros: This design only showed better aerodynamics than the sample

Cons: This design was not stable as it would not sit on the track evenly. It also was heavier  than the sample which caused it to be less efficient.

Why this design?

Design Research

• Since the shape of the front of the AEV has a large effect on the drag generated, we decided that our design will utilize an “airfoil design”. This design has a relatively round shape, similar to a parabola. Moreover, this specific design, as seen in the diagram above, is extremely aerodynamic and has a drag coefficient of 0.045.
• This shape for the front of the AEV will work extremely well because it is not that wide in length, quite close to width of the T-shaped arm. As opposed to our original design which utilized a much large front surface, this design will likely be able to move much more quickly.
• The T Shape Body and T Shape Arm – Both of these materials provide for a better center of balance in the vehicle. The T Shape Arm spreads the wheels equally in each direction from its base, spreading the weight of the wheels equally over its area as apposed to the L Shape Arm. The T Shape Body spans the back of the AEV which allows for motor placement below it. This does not necessarily balance the front and back of the vehicle, but it helps to balance the left and right side of the vehicle.
  • The center of balance if important in multiple ways for the vehicle. If the vehicle is not balanced near the center, the wheels will not rest on the track properly if it being weighed down too much in one direction. The center of balance, or center of gravity, can be used to determine where the vehicle as a whole will move based on the forces acting on it. This is important when dealing with both acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle. [1]
• Estimated weight: 4.5 – 5.0 lbs
• 

Part Inventory and Price of Project

Citations: 

Hall, Nancy. “Shape Effects on Drag.” NASA, NASA, 5 May 2015, www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/airplane/shaped.html.