Topic: Sheath Air-Deflection Testing
Procedure:
- Create a code that makes the AEV move at 35% of its power output for 8 seconds.
- Run the current AEV design using the code from Step 1 on the test rail for 5 trials and record the data.
- Create a “sheath” using a trapezoidal acrylic piece and a 2×6 acrylic piece and attach it to the front of the AEV.
- Run the “sheathed” AEV using the code from Step 1 on the test rail for 5 trials and record the data.
Looking at the 2 sets of data tables, we will be able to determine if using the “sheath” is an efficient way of decreasing the power-output of the AEV.
Controls: We will use the same rails for all trials, we will collect all of the data onto the same computer and using the same program, and the “sheath” will be properly secured after each trial it is used to ensure accurate readings.
Possible Issues: The “sheath” being used has small holes throughout its body to reduce weight, and as such it is possible for that to reduce the aerodynamic qualities gained from the “sheath”, which can prevent us from seeing if a “sheath” is actually effective at reducing the power-input of the AEV.
Results:
The graphs above were the control group, using an AEV without any modifications. In 11 seconds the AEV traveled 8 meters, the max length of the testing track without any need to coast.
The AEV was ran for two tests, and both tests the AEV when through the entire testing track without coasting.
The graphs above were the group where the AEV had an sheath. The modified AEV traveled 6.5 meters in 11 seconds in contrast to 8 without the sheath.
Even though the sheath was believed to help due to aerodynamics and air deflection, the sheath added too much weight to the AEV, reducing the effects and leaving the AEV to become less efficient than without any modifications.