Fuel cells convert Hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and other forms of energy. Hydrogen fuel cells use a process that is the opposite of electrolysis. Hydrogen fuel cells are very clean with no emissions. The only by product is energy, heat and water. There are different types of fuel cells, those being: Alkaline, Polymer Electrolyte Membrane, Direct Methanol, Solid Oxide, Molten, Carbonate, and Phosphoric Acid. Hydrogen fuel cells can also supply power as long as hydrogen and oxygen is supplied.
Solar cell
A solar or photovoltaic cell uses light/radiation produced from the sun to produce electricity.
Automobile sketch
Circuit connection
Series
With motor: voltage: 2.3V current: 1.51A power: 3.473W
Parallel
voltage: .22V current: .53A power: .1166W
Power calculations
solar
hydrogen
Without motor: voltage: 2.68V current: .06A power: .1608W
voltage: .59V current: .26A power: .1534W
changes
While some changes were made, overall we managed to stick to our innovative compact design using only two wheels. We ended up adding more supports to the struts to stabilize the vehicle and make the axle alignment better. We also left room for the sprockets so they wouldn't have to be elevated. The final change we made was adding a platform besides the back wheel to give room for the hydrogen fuel cell and or battery pack. This platform also helped balance our vehicle out.
reflection
While our machine did function overall, we still ran into quite a few problems while building it due to various factors. Our vehicle had too much resistance due to the sprockets so even though power was being supplied the motor wouldn't move. While all other ways to power the vehicle worked, the series connection was by far the most efficient as we had not just the greatest power, but also the greatest speed. We also ran into a few problems with spacing while building it because of the limited space so we had to come up with creative solutions. Overall I'm happy with the design as we were able to create a working machine that is very compact and uses only two wheels. While it isn't the fastest it is still an accomplishment.