2004-2005
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Top shell preparation
After initial aerodynamic testing of the top shell, work has commenced in preparation for installation of the solar array in the coming days. The bulk of the work involves the wiring of cables, diodes and trackers for the individual solar panels. The work also includes a number of other smaller...Track testing
After a few weekends of testing the rolling chassis of our new vehicle on the long driveway at our workshop, the car was put through its paces on the 1.5km cycling track at Heffron Park. The car was fitted with its completed top shell (minus the solar panels), basic electrical system and completed...NRMA display – Erina Fair
This weekend the team was involved with yet another NRMA Advanced Technology Exhibition, this time at Erina Fair near Gosford. The exhibition, which has previously focused on examples of more sustainable transport options (such as our solar car, an electric vehicle, and a production hybrid car) now...Top shell layup a success
The solar racing team has been working hard over the past few weeks manufacturing the UNSW Sunswift III's top shell. The top shell is a framework which supports the solar panels in the car's aerodynamic shape. It was manufactured using carbon fibre in ourSolar array arrives
The solar array for UNSW Sunswift III arrived today. The solar cells were purchased from Sunpower in the Philipines, cut square by a company in Korea, and encapsulated by Gochermann Solar Technology in Germany before being delivered to...UNSW Sunswift III is rolling
Last night our new solar car, UNSW Sunswift III, was driven under its own power for the first time. The short test drive took place in our workshop car park and driveway. A few adjustments will be made to the vehicle before more extensive testing is carried out. As the picture indicates, one...Suspension parts fiitted
Today, the final components are being installed in our new vehicle to conduct preliminary testing in the coming days. A number of students worked to install the suspension system which is attached to the carbon fibre chassis on one side and structural spats (wheel fairings) on the other. A special...New MPPT control board operational
Our electrical team leader has been working on upgrading our DriveTek maximum power-point trackers (MPPTs) with a custom-built control board. The maximum power point tracker is a device which allows a solar panel to operate at its...Bottom shell complete
After a weekend long lay-up the bottom shell of UNSW Sunswift III is now complete. Some technical issues with the mould which had previously caused problems were rectified, and the part came out in an excellent condition. The team will now work to install the completed chassis and other...[ 81 results ]
