After I finalized my idea to create a battery-powered car that transfers chemical potential energy to kinetic energy, I made a general sketch to put my ideas onto paper.
The sketch above shows both the bird’s eye view and the side view, detailing the circuitry and also the placement of parts such as the battery and the on-off switch. The on-off switch sends a signal through the battery to both motors on the back wheels, allowing the vehicle to propel itself.
The video above is an example of a battery-powered car, though it will be much smaller and has less torque than my design. It adequately shows the basic steps of construction and circuiting.
Here is another design I could use since it is larger and may more accurately help guide me in my creation process. This video also made me realize that one motor may be barely enough since it didn’t seem to have a lot of power to move forward.
Above is a diagram of how to circuit the battery to a switch and two motors.
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I also need to figure out cooling for my battery, since, from my research, batteries easily overheat and can cause danger. I also need to figure out a safe way to store my wires in my “car” to prevent anything from shorting out or dragging on the ground. However, I may consider making a tricycle, which could decrease our materials list, though it may prove complex to position a third wheel in front rather than connect it on two sides.
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Success Criteria:
Have a working car design that is powered by a battery.
Sustain a forward movement for a period of time.
Properly utilize and understand energy transfer within my design.
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The materials list is as follows:
1 battery (9V)
1 thin metal rod (14cm)
Two DC motors
Positive and Negative Wires (Refer to the diagram above)
A wooden board (20cm by 10cm)
4 wheels
A straw (10cm)
