Snoopy

Snoopy The Car

Students of the ACE Academy are currently building a super mileage car to challenge builders from other schools in the state.  The goal is to see how many miles per gallon can be squezzed from the car. The car (named "Snoopy"), is currently being funded by the school with possible future financial assistance from community businesses.

The car is considered a stock or beginner vehicle designed to run on unleaded 87 octane fuel. It is powered by a 2.4 hp Briggs and Stratten engine and carries one passenger - the driver. It is expected to reach a top speed of 30 miles per hour, not fast but fule efficient.

Mr. Kong, advisor to the project explained that the car must meet certain requirements in order to enter mileage competitions. For examples, the car and driver together cannot exceed 130 pounds, the mechanical workings of the car must be aerodynamically encased or surrounded by a body shell, it must have rear view mirrors and have brakes. This prototype vehicle has a sheet metal body.

A team of ten students

Robot Explorer

are working to build and perfect the car under the supervision of ACE Academy leader, David Gundale.

Robotics

Robotics is a future project being planned.  Former ACE students have attended the National Robotics Championships in Faribault, Minnesota. This experience inspired our academy to become involved in robotics in the future.

Students do not need to be highly educated in science and electronics to become involved in robotics, but they do need to have an interest in these areas, have a desire to learn, enjoy teamwork and be willing to put in a consistent effort to be successful.

Building a robot will provide students and opportunity to learn practical applications of electronics, fluidics, hydraulics and other aspects of the physical sciences. The students are rewarded with the excitement of having their robot entered in competition against robots from other schools.