Variable Inertia Flywheel
Team Members: Karl Bitikofer, Joe Castellano, Daniel
Farmer, Brandon Fleming, Alex Friedman
Advisor: Dr. Abaid
The goal of this project is to build a variable inertia
flywheel (VIF) and implement the design on a bicycle. The
VIF will store energy from braking which will be utilized by
the rider up hills or from a standing start. The intent is to
aid commuters making bicycle travel to work a more viable
green transportation option.
Key Features:
• Research in the mechanics of VIF
• Use bicycle as proof of VIF concept
• Energy stored in flywheel to be used by rider
Deliverables:
• Optimization of parameters: angular velocity, weight,
energy storage
• AutoCAD drawing of VIF design
• Prototype construction and implementation on bicycle
• Experimental testing of prototype using local terrain