How did teams in Challenge X spend most of Year One?
Year One of Challenge X focused on the use of math-based modeling tools for vehicle design and vehicle and subsystem control. In addition, teams spent much of the first year researching, comparing and selecting advanced technologies that meet the Challenge X goals. Students used computer-based math modeling tools to objectively compare and select the advanced technologies used in the overall design of their Challenge X vehicles. One of the objective comparisons considered in this process is the “well-to-wheel” analysis used to select the fuel. This analysis includes upstream energy use and emissions produced from refining, as well as regulated vehicle emissions. Teams also developed and used rapid prototyping and hardware in the loop (HIL) tools to validate their models and control systems. With the help of Challenge X industry sponsors, many different products and solutions were made available to support the students’ efforts in developing their own rapid prototyping and HIL tools. Af
