Technology of Tigergen I
Aerodynamics
For the first time, the team will be performing our aerodynamic analysis ourselves, in our quest to create an efficient body design.
With its teardrop shape Tigergen I is more efficient than a conventional vehicle, which expends over 85% of their energy overcoming wind resistance. Tigergen’s shape allows it to slice through the air with little aerodynamic drag, while still leaving enough space to comfortably fit the driver.
In addition to the shape, the team included fairings into the aerodynamic design. Fairings are wheel coverings built into the body of the car and cover the majority of the wheel, reducing drag.
Fuel Cell
Tigergen I's has two Nexa Ballard fuel cells, each capable of producing an output power of 1.2 kW. Since the fuel cells produce a low voltage, we boost it to 100 volts with a DCDC so it can power the motor.
To make our fuel system more efficient we also use batteries, which run parallel to our DCDC. This allows Tigergen to start immediately from a stand still, use regenerative braking, accelerate quickly, and store excess energy.
At the end of a day of racing, Tigergen's hydrogen tank will need to be replenished. The tank, which holds hydrogen at a pressure of up to 5,000 psi, needs to be filled with hydrogen each night using a student designed cascade system.
The cascade system uses three 6,000 psi tanks we are able to refill the 5,000 psi tank in the car, by letting them reach equilibrium.
Motor
Tigergen I uses a New Generations axial flux wheel hub motor, allowing the car to reach 72 mph. Mounted right on the wheel it eliminates the need for a transmission. The motor is over 90% efficient, and has a maximum output of 10 horsepower. Along with the motor controller between the stator and rotor windings, the torque of the motor can be adjusted for maximum cruising efficiency.
Telemetry and Data Acquisition
The telemetry system collects and transfers the data on Tigergen I to the chase car and the driver. This information is analyzed to determine how well Tigergen is performing. The team will use this information to maximize the performance of the car and minimize the amount of hydrogen needed to make the car run. The system is also able to control parts of the car automatically and is what starts everything before they drive.
- The circuit boards collect data from the fuel cells, battery system, hydrogen tank levels, speed and more.
- Software, written by our engineers, then transfers the data to the following car and driver in a form that they can analyze and understand.
- This all happens in real time and lets us spot any problems that may arise and address them promptly.
