About this class
This class is about the different systems of energy and power such as, solar, magnetic, electrical, and mechanical systems.
If there are no pictures under the projects, then refer to this link for the pictures:
docs.google.com/presentation/d/1x69vbUNT-Xr4jgpOBDVZxh9tzdI8N80L2mq3ofaNlM8/edit?usp=sharing
First Project: Solar Powered LEGO Car
In this first project, we were given a box full of LEGO materials, and with this box of materials we had to use the included solar panel and polarized capacitor, as well as wheels, axles, and structural bricks to create a vehicle to transport a LEGO minifigure from point A to point B.
Second Project: Magnetic Levitation (MagLev) Vehicle
For this project, we were given requirements, get a car down a track using magnetic levitation and a propeller-motor combination. Magnetic levitation occurs when two magnetic poles of the same polarity repel each other, creating a virtually frictionless "surface" to travel on. We soldered wires to the motor so it can rest on the electrified track, causing the propeller to spin, creating forward movement.
Third Project: Residential Electrical Systems
In this project we were given a packet full of descriptions of circuits that resemble ones you would find in your home. We used these descriptions to build circuits that fit the specifications using electrical cable, switches, lights, and outlets to create AC electrical circuits.
Fourth Project: Small Gas Engines
In this project we were given a small gas engine and we were instructed to take it apart and reassemble it so that it still worked and fired properly. Along the way we were also instructed to take measurements of the parts and pieces, and also make sure the bolts are tight enough so that it works, and measurements as accurate and precise as possible, due to an engine being a precision machine that has to be measured to the width of a human hair.
Misc. Subjects
We learned about how an electric motor works as a sub-section of the MagLev car unit. It works because as the electricity from the power source goes to the brushes (red lines), it gives them a positive or negative charge, and when the commutator ring (green arcs) passes the brushes it gives it a magnetic polarity which is the same as the polarity of the permanent magnet it’s facing, causing that part of the commutator ring to be repelled and thus spinning the shaft (black circle) it is attached to, this process repeats for both brushes and both sections of the commutator ring.