HYPERXITE POD X
Aerodynamic structures
The Aerodynamics Structures subteam intends to design a carbon fairing aeroshell to maximize the aerodynamic efficiency and accessibility of open-air components. SolidWorks is used to optimize the side and top profiles of the pod. Ansys Fluent is our computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software of choice, which we use to analyze the aerodynamic efficiency of our designs and to minimize drag and wake circulation. Our simulations operate at maximum achievable velocity of 20 m/s and use a turbulent flow model. We intend to manufacture the aeroshell in-house using a vacuum-sealed bagged layup process.
Static structures
This year, the Statics subteam will focus on efficiently allocating space to other subsystems and improving mounting structures used to integrate them onto the pod. The pod chassis will build off of previous chassis iterations and include mounting infrastructure for the new aerodynamic fairing and potential extensions to accommodate additional hardware from other subteams. Custom carbon fiber frames will continue to support forces from braking, propulsion, and pod weight at the center of the chassis.
DYNAMIC SYSTEMS
The Dynamics subteam focuses on modeling the pod system's dynamics, including springs, dampers, and linkages. The primary goal is to ensure the pod effectively absorbs impacts and quickly stabilizes after encountering bumps, minimizing vibrations that could cause parts to strike the track or become dislodged. This is accomplished by employing six degrees of freedom equations of motion to precisely model the pod, simulating its behavior in Simulink, and optimizing the suspension system accordingly.
BRAKING and pneumatics
The braking mechanism comprises a pneumatically actuated system composed of 6 actuators and 3 gas springs. Its primary function is to exert a force on the I-beam track, facilitating the deceleration of the pod to a halt after it reaches maximum speed. The pneumatic system provides mechanical energy from pressurized air to retract the gas springs, as the gas springs provide the force that enables the brake pads to apply frictional force, and bringing the pod to a controlled stop, even during any failure modes.
Thermal cooling
The thermal cooling system includes a liquid cooling system embedded within the electromagnetic coils, delivering conductive and convective heat transfer to each side of the linear induction motor (LIM). Its primary objective is to maintain the optimal working temperature of the LIM to maximize efficiency.
levitation Research and Development
The Levitation subteam aims to develop HyperXite's first ever implementation of magnetic levitation to be used on future iterations of the pod. By utilizing a combination of electrodynamic suspension methods and permanent magnets arranged in a Halbach formation, repulsive forces between the track and magnets can be generated which can lift and hold the pod off the surface. The Levitation subteam uses COMSOL Multi-physics to simulate and optimize this lift force and create a working demo of a levitation system.
Power Systems
The Powers subteam is responsible for developing and managing both high and low voltage systems. This includes designing a variable frequency drive, which will convert 352 volts of DC power to three-phase AC power to efficiently power the Linear Induction Motor (LIM). Powers is also tasked with ensuring all electronic peripherals are reliably supplied with power for optimal performance while implementing robust safety circuitry to protect components and prevent electrical hazards.
Operations
The Operations subteam works in finding sponsors and providing components for each of the subteams, on top of creating new content to update HyperXite’s various social platforms. This is accomplished through a three wave outreach cycle, seeking support from returners, suppliers, and newly researched companies. This year, the team's outreach successfully acquired sourcing for the chassis and braking systems, discounts on manufacturing of printed circuit boards, and software training for simulation programs. Alongside this, Operations is also responsible for updating the team's website, coordinating promotional material, and planning events and retreats for the team.
Propulsion
This year, the pod features a 3-phase double-sided linear induction motor (LIM) harnessing electromagnetic forces for propulsion. Distinguished by its lack of moving parts, the LIM boasts significantly enhanced energy efficiency compared to conventional motors. Propulsion this year will be focusing on optimizing the coil winding scheme to output more thrust, and creating a winding jig to ease the manufacturing process.
Control Systems
As the Control Systems subteam, we ensure the pod operates safely and efficiently by integrating with all mechanical and electrical subsystems. Utilizing a finite state machine (FSM) and a network of sensors, we actively manage the pod's behavior through the onboard computer. We also enable communication with the control station, providing a remote operator with real-time data via a graphical user interface (GUI). To control the linear induction motor (LIM), we program a microcontroller to deliver frequency and amplitude-modulated control signals to the three-phase AC inverter designed by the Power Systems subteam. Building on the progress made with HX9, we are incorporating a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) based system into the emergency stop mechanism to create a depth-aware field. These advancements reflect our commitment to continuously improving the pod's control, safety, and operational performance.
