Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) combine the internal combustion engine (ICE) of a conventional vehicle with the battery and electric motor of... Show moreHybrid electric vehicles (HEV) combine the internal combustion engine (ICE) of a conventional vehicle with the battery and electric motor of an electric vehicle. Hybrid electric propulsion, currently available in a limited selection of automobiles, improves fuel economy while enhancing torque when acceleration is required. In a parallel hybrid, onboard computers control the utilization of the ICE and electric motor, by selecting one or both power sources to drive the vehicle. A battery delivers power to the electric motor and is recharged by a generator driven by the ICE and by regenerative braking. This IPRO will seek to obtain similar benefits for a bicycle equipped with an electric motor and rechargeable battery, by substituting the cyclist in place of the hybrid electric's ICE. Regenerative braking and downhill pedaling will be investigated to recharge the battery. The intent of this IPRO is to create an understanding and interest in HEVs.This is the second offering of this IPRO. This term we continue our study and construction of a lightweight bicycle, exploring front and/or rear motors, using a lithium-ion battery that is currently being built to our specifications. Working with Dr. Emadi, the IPRO group may design and build appropriate power electronics to support motor drive as well as regenerative braking. A future project might explore the combination of ultra capacitors, for energy storage, and a fuelcell, to produce energy for propulsion. Sponsorship: IIT Collaboratory for Interprofessional Studies Project Plan for IPRO 315: Hybrid Electric Vehicle for the Fall 2003 semester Show less
