Arctic Cat & Phazer
Advanced Track Technology
Background:
The objective of this project is
to develop a design for a track that will reduce loses in the drive train and
make the snowmobile more efficient. Approximately 50% of the power from
the engine currently is lost in the transmission and drive system. A
significant portion of this loss is in the track. The advantages of a more
efficient track are seen in both performance improvements and improved fuel
economy. Weight and efficiency are win-win, making the snowmobile faster
and more fun but also reducing the environmental impact of the machine. A
track will not be built during the project this year. However a complete
design package with materials specifications and modeling will be a part of the
final package for the year.
Hard Milestones (more to be added):
- Proposal for modified milestones and initial deliverables: September 15,
2006
- Literature review, using resources of the Army, recreational products
trade groups and researchers of off road vehicles, develop a comprehensive
review of the efficiency of tracked vehicles: October 3, 2006
- First web page goes live with introductory page and menu on left.
Page must include resumes, individual photos and milestones: October 12, 2006,
2 pm.
- Develop a test matrix for use with the design of the advanced track.
The objective is to design a series of tests that can be used to evaluate the
efficiency of current and future track designs: October 19, 2006
- Complete solid model of an existing track design with materials and parts
identified: November 2, 2006
- Milestone review: November 7, 2006
- Written proposal for all required infrastructure for any tests that will
be performed in 2007: November 14, 2006
- Preliminary materials review for criteria associated with track design:
November 21, 2006
- Draft Midterm Report: December 5, 2006
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