Time to start thinking about Human Powered Vehicles

Emily M. Smith
ASME NEWS

During the winter months, ASME student-member minds often turn to concepts of human powered vehicle design. But with the dates and locations for ASME's next Human Powered Vehicle challenge now determined, those student-member minds should also consider registering to participate.

The annual competition is open to ASME student section members. In this event, Human Powered Vehicles — also known as bicycles — are aerodynamic, highly engineered vehicles that may be used on land. Some land-based HPVs have achieved speeds in excess of 60 mph.

The vehicles are judged on design, safety and performance. The purpose of the competition is to recognize the elegance and ingenuity of design, including presentation, practicality and safety. All facets of engineering problem solving are addressed in this event, in which design and construction are seldom as simple as they may appear.

The West Coast competition is scheduled for April 25-27 in Davis, Calif. The University of California, Davis will host the event. Preliminary registration is due Feb. 7. Final registration is due March 7.

The East Coast/Midwest competition will take place May 2-4 in Rolla, Mo. The University of Missouri at Rolla will be the host. Preliminary registration is due Feb. 14, with final registration set for March 14.

Teams may register for either or both locations. To register, and to obtain more information, visit www.asme.org/hpv.

 

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