Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Running Pace Assistant |
Ben Chang David Creger Gaurav Gunupati |
AJ Schroeder | design_document1.pdf final_paper1.pdf presentation1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
|
| Team members: David Creger (on campus), Ben Chang (remote), Gaurav Gunupati (on campus) Problem: One of the biggest problems that new runners face is learning to pace themselves. The most effective way to run a race is to keep a constant speed the entire time. A lot of beginners will end up running too fast at the start and then having to slow way down by the end of the race. The existing solutions today to solve this issue include GPS watches, but those don't provide very instantaneous feedback and have no visual cues that guide you. A much better existing solution involves a string of LED lights wrapped around a track that shows the runner exactly how fast to run. However, this technology isn't widely available for the average person. Solution Overview: Our proposed solution would be to create a car that would have the ability to pace on any standard running track in the world. It would utilize IR sensors to follow the lines around the track, and then have an interface where the user could input distance, pace, or time. The runner would then run behind this car. We also have the idea to have sensors for when the runner is falling too far behind the car, and the car could play auditory motivation to help get the runner back on pace. Also, since tracks are outside, this would be a good opportunity to make the car solar powered in order to increase its run time. Solution Components: Line Following Car: This would be the base level of our project. We would utilize IR sensors in order to follow the white lines that wrap around a running track. We would most likely use a modified RC car for this part of the project. That way we do not have to build a battery management system and motor controllers from scratch and devote more time to the other subsystems. Speed Sensor: We will investigate the best option for speed detection. Two options that come to mind are using a hall effect sensor or IR sensor to measure RPM and then multiply by the wheel circumference. We can then adjust the power going to the motors in order to maintain the desired speed. User interface: This would likely be buttons on the car and 9 segment displays. We would have 1 display for speed and 1 display for time. The user would adjust these values to their liking before setting the car down on the track. Criterion for Success: - At a base level, the car should successfully follow the line around a running track without assistance, and the car's speed should be adjustable via the user interface. - The car's speed should be able to reach 10mph and it should be able to drive for at least a mile. - The car should have a swappable rechargeable battery. |
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