Ultra-capacitor Powered Radio Controlled Car

Team Member(s): Jeremiah Montee
Semester: Summer 2011

End-Product Description
The main purpose of this design is to replace a battery with another power source. For this project, an ultra-capacitor will be introduced to take the place of the battery. The ultra-capacitor discharges much more slowly than conventional capacitors and can cycle millions of times. Ultracapacitors not only recover up to 80% of their energy release in comparison to just 30% for a battery, but they also recharge at a much faster rate than traditional batteries. With these advantages, the goal is to have the radio controlled car run solely off an ultra-capacitor for at least ten minutes. This would be a huge contribution to the RC community and would provide a possible alternate energy source for the continuation of their hobby.

Figure: Ultracapacitors on RC Car Being Charged

Figure: Step Down Voltage Regulator for Circuit Accessories