Capacitive Electric Load Leveling Systems English 317 Oral Presentation November 29, 2004 Erin Davis Fred Jessup Benton O’Neil

2 Background Senior Capstone Design Course National Institute for Advanced Vehicle Transportation Technology (NIATT) American Trucking Association (ATA)

3 Problems and Purpose ATA –Diesel is expensive – fuel efficiency –Batteries are expensive and die quickly Replacement takes time and money NIATT –Transportation Technology Improvements Senior Design –Requirement for Graduation –Beneficial to make our own design

4 Test Results from the Explorer

5 Problem Solving Methods Resources –Modeling – Testing different ideas –Testing – Hands on experimenting –Professors – Theoretical knowledge –Suppliers – Product information –Mentor – Practical experience –Customer – Requirements for design

6 Ultracapacitors Large Energy for Short Time Light Weight Longer Life (10 years versus 4 years)

7 Final Design Uses ultracapacitors to start engine –Lighter battery –Improved fuel efficiency Capacitor / Bucket New Battery / Shallow Tank Small Pressure = Low Flow Old Battery / Tall Tank Big Pressure = High Flow

8 Benefits Applications –Trucks, Cars, Planes Gas Mileage Lead Acid Batteries –Production and Disposal Development of New Technologies –Ultracapacitors

Questions?