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Abstract
The objective of this project is to develop a prototype air-powered remote-controlled (RC) vehicle that demonstrates the viability and potential advantages of a compressed air-powered drivetrain. The Air-Powered RC Car (APRCC) is uniquely characterized by the integration of subsystems that closely replicate those found in full-scale automobiles. This design approach provides a more complex and realistic driving experience, while also enabling increased opportunities for user-driven mechanical tuning and experimentation. The development of the compressed air engine was guided by prior work related to pneumatic propulsion systems. Given the experimental and evolving nature of this project, it was essential to adopt an iterative design approach. This methodology involved repeated cycles of prototyping, testing, and refinement, which necessitated the extensive use of 3D-printed components to enable rapid fabrication and modification of parts throughout the development process. The project team executed the complete design, fabrication, and assembly of the APRCC. Performance testing of the finalized prototype yielded a maximum runtime of 60 seconds and a peak velocity of 5 miles per hour.