Abstract

Purpose/Hypothesis

Literature Review

Materials/
Equipment

Test Station Construction

Procedure

Observations

Calculations

Results

Statistical Analysis
Conclusions

Discussion
Sources of Error

Applications

Glossary of Terms

Acknowledgements
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Experimental Design

The objective of this experiment was to quantitatively measure how the dependent variables, wind speed, mAmps, mVolts and revolutions per minute (RPM), changed under varying experimental conditions. These changing conditions were the independent variables as shown in the experimental design chart below.

Twelve rotor variations were tested with three sizes of DC motor at medium and high fan speeds.

The resulting mAmps, mVolts, RPM and wind speed were measured ten times per manipulation to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

In total, 720 measurements each of mAmps, mVolts, RPM and wind speed were planned. In actual experimentation, some rotor variables failed to start and turn the horizontal axis, making measurements of RPM and electrical output unavailable.

mAmps and mVolts were measured using a digital multimeter.

RPM were measured using a digital photo tachometer.

Wind speed was measured using a digital anemometer to ensure that it was constant for each of the tests using a particular speed and calculate tip speeds.

Dependent Variables:
1. mAmps
2. mVolts
3. RPM
4. Wind Speed
Independent Variables:
1. Fan speed
2. Number of rotors (1, 2 or 3)
3. Rotor spacing
4. Position of rotor on horizontal axis (i.e. rotor blades offset or in line)
5. Size of the DC motor (1.5-3V, 9-18V or 12V)

Controls:
1. The same test station, retort stand supporting the motor, and electric fan were used for all tests.
2. All of the testing was done in the same location at ambient temperature.
3. The equipment was positioned exactly the same for every test. The test station and retort stand were clamped onto the workbench and the required fan position was marked on the floor.
4. The rotor placement on the axis was checked with a T-square to ensure that the rotors were perpendicular to the axis.
5. A ruler was used to mark the required distance between rotors.
6. The same measuring instruments were used for all tests.
7. The anemometer was held in approximately the same position for every measurement.
8. The tachometer was placed so that the beam was centered on the reflective tape. 9. RPM and multimeter readings were not taken until the rotors had reached maximum and stable rotational speed.
10. All testing was repeated a total of ten times to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Experimental Design Chart

Material & Equipment