Solar Car Design [F-12-50]
| Presenter: | Eric Thacher |
|---|---|
| Location: | SUNY: Van Housen Extension SB27A |
| Classes: | 1 Session 2.0 hours |
| Dates: | Mon 10:00 AM 10/29 |
| Status: | CLOSED |
Print Info
In this course we examine several major questions about the interactions of a solar car with the atmosphere and the road. How does one determine the power necessary to travel at a certain speed? How can one predict the solar radiation available at a certain location and time? How can one use this information to size the solar array? You will get the answers to these and other questions. The presenter will demonstrate the use of solar cells to power a small motor and illustrate (using slides and video) the variables involved in designing and racing a solar car. You will see an example of the design of a solar racing car and that discussion will be illustrated with slides and a video of a wind tunnel test.
Eric Thacher was principal advisor to Clarkson’s solar car team. He is the author of A Solar Car Primer, a book about the design and construction of solar racing cars.
LINKS:
- https://www.novapublishers.com/ - the site of Nova Science, publisher of a Solar Car Primer. LINK to book description.
- http://americansolarchallenge.org/ - The American Solar Challenge race site.