Team: 24
School: Tucumcari High
Area of Science: Computer Science
Interim: The Problem:
The problem is the lack of consistency found within the testing of fuel cells. When testing fuel cells a silver mesh is applied to the cell using a silver paste. Currently this paste is applied by hand which creates inconsistencies in the testing. This inconsistency leads to a delay in the research and use of fuel cells.
The Solution;
The plan is to 3D model and print a template that can be used to consistently apply the paste in a manner in which is beneficial to the researchers. We can then use NetLogo to create a program that is able to take any image of the fuel cell with the mesh and make each the same size by counting the pixels of a piece of tape to act as a control. After we make this picture a consistent size we can then count the pixels covered or not covered by the paste to see how consistent the application using a 3D printed part truly is. We also plan to use this program to tell the density of the paste that was applied using the same picture that we used to find the consistency of 3D printed applicator templates.
The Progress:
I have been able to work with programming professionals as well as using much of the NetLogo dictionary to help with the program made in NetLogo which is nearing completion. I have also been able to work with some at the Air Force Research Labs in Albuquerque, New Mexico in order to get accurate pictures on the testing of the button cells used in the fuel cells.
Expected Results:
We expect to see the program be simple to use with all that is necessary is the input of an image that can be adjusted to the right size, have its effectiveness be calculated, as well as telling you the density of the paste applied with the pushing of just a few buttons. We hope that this can help in the advancement of the research of fuel cells so they may be used in as many applications as possible such as space travel, backup power in emergencies, and getting power to remote areas.
Citations:
“NetLogo 6.3.0 User Manual: NetLogo Dictionary.†Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling, https://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/docs/dictionary.html. Accessed 9 January 2023.
Dailey, Jeanne. “AFRL is developing green power for satellites > ONE AFRL / TWO SERVICES > Article Display.†Air Force Research Laboratory, 21 April 2022, https://www.afrl.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3005712/afrl-is-developing-green-power-for-satellites/. Accessed 9 January 2023.
“NetLogo Interactive Dictionary | Beginner's Interactive NetLogo Dictionary.†Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling, https://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/bind/. Accessed 9 January 2023.
Howell, Thomas. “Fuel Cells for Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Systems.†DOE Hydrogen Program, 30 April 2019, https://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/pdfs/review19/ia004_howell_2019_o.pdf. Accessed 9 January 2023.
“Hydrogen & Fuel Cells.†Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/public-services/vehicles/hydrogen-fuel-cells. Accessed 9 January 2023.
Team Members:
Sponsoring Teacher: Thomas Evans