hybrid car

A multi-disciplinary faculty-student project is underway to develop a plug in diesel-electric hybrid vehicle. The project is aimed at creating a retrofit kit to convert existing autos to hybrid operation. The base vehicle being used is an older Volkswagen Jetta. The project is a sophisticated blend of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems engineering.

To create a hybrid from the conventional internal combustion drivetrain, mechanical engineering students developed a way to move the transaxle and engine several inches to allow space for an electric clutch and timing belt pulley. The timing belt directly connects an electric motor to the transaxle while the diesel engine is connected to the transaxle through the electric clutch. This allows the electric motor or the diesel engine to be used independently or in conjunction depending upon operating requirements. While this is a simple concept, there are many technical challenges, including designing a mechanical system that can retrofitted into the limited space of an existing chassis, and developing a flexible and robust control system that can sense and respond to a wide range of operating conditions.

The project is a practical, real-world challenge that if successful would offer a proof-of-concept platform for a low-cost alternative for obtaining a hybrid vehicle. Results so far indicate that the system will be successful. In addition to its ultimate success, the project reflects OIT’s and OREC’s practical, hands-on sensibility and the goal of putting engineers into the work place with awareness and knowledge of renewable energy.

Bio-Diesel Production Plant Automation

Another multi-disciplinary project nearing successful completion is automating a small-scale bio-diesel production plant. While technology for bio-diesel production is proven, small-scale plants such as would be used on farms, in small businesses, and by individuals are batch operations in which the ingredients are added and the bio-diesel is produced over approximately a 96-hour period requiring frequent intervention by the user, e.g., to take measurements, open and close valves, monitor fluid levels. The goal of this project is to develop a simple, failsafe automation system that will allow a small producer to simply add ingredients, push a button, and have biodiesel in four days without further intervention.

While small-scale bio-diesel plants are common, this automation project appears to be unique. It is a interesting technical challenge involving expertise from students in several disciplines: mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, and computer systems engineering. The project is in its initial test phase and appears to be a success. Students are looking at wider potential applications involving creating a national, internet-based bio-diesel supply system connecting producers and users