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Session 3433

Solar BikeRayce Competition Caps Success in Technology Student Team Project

Linda O. Hardymon, O. Kenneth Sergeant Middle Tennessee State University

Abstract

After a solar bike workshop was held at Middle Tennessee State University, the “we can do this” syndrome hit some of the students and faculty on campus. A group of engineering technology and industrial studies students felt they could design, engineer, manufacture limited parts, construct, and compete in a vehicle of their own creation. The ongoing demands of the solar bike project provided impetus for creative design, student involvement, opportunities for displaying the bike, recruitment of team members, and a continued level of student interest.

Introduction

The idea of building a solar vehicle first caught the interest of some Engineering Technology and Industrial Studies (ETIS) faculty during a solar vehicles workshop conducted at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in the Fall of 1998. Intrigued by two motorized bikes on display and available for test rides, discussion turned from "we could do this" to "we can do this" and a new student project for the department was sparked. Believing not only engineering technology students, but also those in environmental science and technology and other areas might be interested, the idea spread and slowly gained support. A solar bike project was initiated by ETIS faculty, however, the criteria for the project to be successful had to be established to gain the support of the ETIS department and to attract students. The project had to be educational, offer hands-on experience, encourage active-mind involvement, and provide an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge. That the project would touch upon an environmentally friendly area such as solar technology was an added benefit, as was an established competition to verify project results, the Solar BikeRayce '99 event in Topeka, Kansas scheduled for the following May.

Why solar?

Solar energy is a free resource offering a healthy, efficient, and environmentally friendly fuel alternative. It is a mainstream resource and important to the future of our environment. The environmental gain is reduced pollution and increased awareness of environmental stewardship. The educational gain is the

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Sergeant, O. K., & Hardymon, L. O. (2000, June), Solar Bike Rayce Competition Caps Success In Technology Student Team Project Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8702