HPEV

The Human-Powered/Electric Hybrid Vehicle student research project that was initially funded by the Research Office during the 2008-2009 academic year has progressed very rapidly and the initial $1000 grant has been exhausted. A one-seat prototype has been built and tested (see Figure 1), with emphasis on fabrication and installation techniques, the steering mechanism, finding  suppliers, and proper maintenance. The Human-Powered/Electric Hybrid Vehicle student research project that was initially funded by the Research Office during the 2008-2009 academic year has progressed very rapidly and the initial $1000 grant has been exhausted. A one-seat prototype has been built and tested (see Figure 1), with emphasis on fabrication and installation techniques, the steering mechanism, finding  suppliers, and proper maintenance.

 

A two-seat prototype (Square One) has a finished frame and a nearly finished drive train. At the same time, study of the optimal aerodynamic shape for the shell is being performed using computational fluid dynamics in preparation for construction of the full-body fairing. The electric system is being designed simultaneously. Methods of integrating the mechanical and electrical drive components are being explored, with flywheels and other energy conversion methods being considered. The research team is growing and tasks for this academic year are being divided among project members.

 

                 One full two-seat prototype beyond the Square One and one final two-seat vehicle, both with electric assist, are being funded in large part by the Dean of the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences on the condition that the final product will be used for a family with a mentally handicapped teenager. This may lead to minor modifications of some of the safety design criteria, although the use of the previously determined design criteria regarding turning radius, max speed, durability, electric assist, etc., are ideal for this  application.

To contact us:

Email:       SENEA@utulsa.edu

The University of Tulsa

Sustainable Energy for North East Asia