Calculating Flywheel Speed in a Hybrid Vehicle: A Homework Challenge

In summary, a hybrid vehicle uses a flywheel to capture the energy of the car during braking. With a total mass of 850kg and a flywheel mass-moment of inertia of 14kgm2, the speed of the flywheel when the car stops for traffic lights in an urban area can be determined assuming 100% efficiency. The equations that can be used are Uniform Angular Acceleration and Centripetal force, but the key is to think about energy and how the kinetic energy of the car is converted into rotational kinetic energy of the flywheel. Some hints and assistance may be needed to solve this problem.
  • #1
bakoo
19
0

Homework Statement



In a hybrid vehicle a flywheel is used to capture the energy of the car during braking. If the car has a total mass of 850kg and the flywheel has a mass-moment of inertia equal to 14kgm2 determine the speed of the flywheel when the car stops for traffic lights in an urban area (you may assume 100% efficiency).

Homework Equations



Not sure

I am thinking an equation for Uniform Angular Acceleration.

Or

Centripetal force

I am stuck on what one to use

The Attempt at a Solution



If i can get some hints, i would like to have a stab at this one, i am just 100% lost in Newtons laws and other equations...
 
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  • #2
Think of energy. The kinetic energy of the car has to turn into rotational kinetic energy of the flywheel.
 
  • #3
I will post what i have done in a few hours, thanks for the hint...
 
  • #4
Hi could you post your results or someone offer some help as i am having problems with the exact same question.

thank you
 

FAQ: Calculating Flywheel Speed in a Hybrid Vehicle: A Homework Challenge

How do you calculate the flywheel speed in a hybrid vehicle?

In order to calculate the flywheel speed in a hybrid vehicle, you will need to know the moment of inertia of the flywheel, the torque applied to the flywheel, and the gear ratio between the flywheel and the wheels of the vehicle. Once you have these values, you can use the formula: flywheel speed = (torque * gear ratio) / moment of inertia.

Why is the calculation of flywheel speed important in hybrid vehicles?

The calculation of flywheel speed is important in hybrid vehicles because it helps to determine the amount of energy being stored in the flywheel, which is a key component of the vehicle's regenerative braking system. This energy can then be used to power the vehicle, reducing the reliance on the internal combustion engine and improving fuel efficiency.

How do you determine the moment of inertia of a flywheel?

The moment of inertia of a flywheel can be determined by measuring the mass and the radius of the flywheel, and using the formula: moment of inertia = 0.5 * mass * radius^2. This value is typically provided by the manufacturer, but it can also be calculated if the necessary measurements are known.

What factors can affect the flywheel speed in a hybrid vehicle?

The flywheel speed in a hybrid vehicle can be affected by several factors, including the torque applied to the flywheel, the moment of inertia of the flywheel, the gear ratio between the flywheel and the wheels, and the weight and speed of the vehicle. Environmental factors such as road conditions and wind resistance can also impact the flywheel speed.

How can the flywheel speed be optimized for maximum efficiency in a hybrid vehicle?

The flywheel speed can be optimized for maximum efficiency in a hybrid vehicle by adjusting the gear ratio between the flywheel and the wheels, as well as the weight and size of the flywheel. Additionally, the regenerative braking system can be calibrated to capture and store the most energy from braking, which in turn can increase the flywheel speed and improve overall efficiency.

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