Fluid Technology

The technology of using fluid, either gaseous (pneumatics) or liquid (hydraulic), to apply force or to transport.

Example of a simple form of a fluid technology system:

Bicycle pump.

1. Each system contains a fluid, either liquid or gas, that moves through a system.

2. A pressure difference in the system creates force, which causes fluids to move or perform some special function like pushing a piston or opening or closing a valve.

States of matterSolids- Atoms tightly bound together ,

have a definite shape and volume.

Liquids- atoms touch but have the ability to move has volume but no defined shape

Gas- very low densityhave no defined volume or shape

Pneumatic Drive SystemsAdvantage

Uses inexpensive compressed air to operate

Good for clamping work pieces

Pneumatic Drive SystemsDisadvantage

Speed and position not easily controlled

Hydraulic Drive SystemsAdvantage

CompactAllows for high levels of force and

power, combined with accurate control

Converts forces from a liquid into rotational or linear forces

Hydraulic Drive Systems Disadvantage

– Messy. Fluid may contaminate parts, mess up other handling machines, and may not take a finish.

– Not environmentally friendly – fluid can be toxic.

– May require costly clean up and disposal.

AerodynamicsThe study of the flow

of fluid around solid objects of various shapes

4 basic principles of AerodynamicsA. LiftB. ThrustC. WeightD. Drag

Newton’s Second Law

F = maF = forcem = massa = acceleration

For a fast car, you need:-Big force-Light car

Speed = Distance / Time

Newton’s Third Law"For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.”

Drag Thrust

CO2 Car ProjectWrite the following in your journal

ProblemYou need to design the fastest car possible

MaterialOne block of woodTwo eye hooksWheels & Axels

Constraints1.) Car must have a CO2 chamber that is 1.5”

deep and set ½” below top of block2.) Car cannot be shorter in length than 5”3.) Axles cannot be more than ¼” high4.) Car must employ aerodynamic principles

Hint #1The #1 most important factor in the speed of

you dragster car is…MassCars with less mass go much faster!

Hint #2Thanks to our friend gravity, everything has

friction. Since we can’t eliminate friction, how can we

reduce it?

Reducing FrictionMake sure the axle & tires are free to rotate. Make sure the wheels are not rubbing on the

car body. Be sure to install your eye-hooks properly. Poorly aligned eye-hooks are often the cause

of a slow car.

GradingYour car will be graded on the following rubric

Meets constraints _____ / 10Evidence of planning _____ / 10Time Trials _____ / 10Alignment _____ / 10Reflection questions _____ / 10