Research and Developement

Here in group H of Koffolt labs, we do very extensive research in the needs of students. We have done extensive surveys to ensure that we are identifying the every need of students at OSU and our team does research to create solutions to these needs. We have learned through our research that one of the most pressing issues for students on campus is the walk from North campus to South campus, especially when it is cold. While OSU does have a functional us system, our innovative ideas will provide faster, more affordable, more comfortable, and safer methods of transportation.

 

 

 

The best solution for our students’ needs is our brand new gondola system. The system is developed by several competing preliminary sketches, from which our team has chosen only the best options. Our team uses advanced 3-D computer modeling to design the cars to fit every user need. This system will be thoroughly tested with models to endure its safety and comfortability.

 

 

An Exploded View of Our Design

 

 

 

 

 

Our team used state of the art design Methods to fully ensure the safety and practicality of the gondola solutution. Solidworks was used to make CAD drawings as shown.

 

 

 

Isometric and side views of our design

 

 

Our team then build the scale model from the drawing with real parts and used it to test safety and reliability. The tests included:

    • Stopping Precision
    • Arrival Time Automation
    • Vehicle Safety with Added Weight
    • Battery Accessibility
    • Vehicle Balance
    • Dismantle Time

 

 

These tests were run using the on board Arduino Nano. The Vehicle had to be programmed for every single test and the source code for the verification tests can be found here.