Ten Years Educational Activities Using Electric Vehicles at Kochi University of Technology: 2nd Report of Laboratory Activities in 2000-2006

Abstract

1st report describes the educational activities using small-sized three-wheels and compact four-wheels vehicles. The latter was converted from gasoline engine to electric. The extracurricular activities using such vehicles were the Eco-power race conducted in Kochi prefecture in 1997 and the Electric Vehicle Rallies in Shikoku Island in 1997-2000. After such extracurricular activities, our laboratory has conducted the design education considering experiences in the real world. One of the most promising experiences as mechanical engineers is a creation of thought to design and produce products such as vehicles. Vehicles produced were small-sized hand-made four-wheels electric vehicles, electric motorcycle, tricycles, and motor-powered tillers. Since design is of great importance to produce products such as vehicles, 3D-CAD learning is firstly recommended in our laboratory before starting the design and manufacturing of products. In this report, the latter half regarding the laboratory activities is described.