(2024-04-30) Hill, Kaleb; Franco, Gabrielle; Abegunde, Dami; Weissbach, Robert; Pash, Phillip; Freije, Elizabeth
The objective of this capstone project evolved during its progression, ultimately aiming to develop a control system capable of idling the engine and operating the flywheel with braking capabilities. The flywheel's functionality includes idling the engine at approximately 3000-5000 RPM and rotating at speeds between 7000-9000 RPM. While the complete control system remains a work in progress, the flywheel can be fully braked, and preliminary data analysis has been conducted. Presently, the servo mechanism is utilized to maintain engine idling, adjusting the throttle to approximately 108° and returning to 100° upon closure. Future iterations will involve further servo implementation to facilitate RPM acceleration, achieving full throttle opening at 120° and introduce gradual braking.