This paper presents a unique learning and research experience for students from mechanical and electrical engineering majors in a course on senior design projects involving research and development, design and production of a proof-of-concept electric vehicle, the ZEM (Zero EMissions) vehicle. The ZEM vehicle combined positive aspects and latest technologies in electric vehicle design,solar-electric power conversions, and ergonomic human power into one affordable and environmentally sustainable vehicle for urban transportation. The 43 mechanical and 10 electrical engineering majors plus 7 students from business participated in this multidisciplinary project spanned over two academic years. The students involved in this multiyear endeavor gained valuable experiences in real-world working environment with multifunctional and multi-year sub-groups. The success of this new attempt in conducting senior design projects classes have set a model for faculty members in the authors' university in conducting similar courses.
@article{arxiv.1311.6026,
title = {Research and innovative design of a zeroemissions vehicle by multidisciplinary student teams in multi-years},
author = {Raymond K. Yee and Tai-Ran Hsu and Thuy T. Le},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1311.6026},
year = {2013}
}
Comments
Proceedings of Green Energy and Systems Conference 2013, November 25, Long Beach, CA, USA