The 2023 NFPA Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge program has expanded again this year with a new race focusing on regenerative braking capabilities. Coinciding with their senior capstone design courses, or done as an extra–curricular activity, 23 universities have registered to compete in this year–long program. With the support of NFPA Pascal Society donors, once again, this year’s program will feature two separate final competitions, ensuring that more students and universities can participate, and more industry supporters can connect with these students. Norgren will host one event, from April 12–14 in Littleton, Colo. Danfoss Power Solutions will host the other event, from April 26–28 in Ames, Iowa.
“Danfoss is pleased to once again welcome students, advisors, and judges to our Application Development Center for the NFPA Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge,” said Jeff Herrin, SVP Research & Development at Danfoss Power Solutions. “We look forward to seeing the results from the creativity, calculations, and practical hands–on problem solving that each of the student teams has been challenged to deliver to this unique application of fluid power.”
“Norgren is excited to host the NFPA Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge,” said Kent Sowatzke, VP Engineering at Norgren. “As innovators in motion solutions ourselves, we’re excited to see what creative solutions student teams have designed. Norgren is proud to foster the next generation of engineers, designers, and technicians. What could be more fun than seeing the competitors’ bicycle designs tested on our course? We look forward to welcoming teams from all over the country to our Norgren site in beautiful Littleton, Colo.”
The Vehicle Challenge is an undergraduate program that requires engineering students to redesign a traditional bicycle using hydraulics as power transmission as a senior capstone design project or as an extracurricular activity. Students experience real world engineering under strict deadlines for designing, building, testing, and demonstrating their designs. NFPA member industry professionals serve as mentors and judges to guide the students in their learning. Through the program, students learn about fluid power, build a network of peers and industry professionals from all over the country and compete for cash prizes in now four separate races — sprint, efficiency, endurance, and regenerative braking capabilities.
Industry members are heavily involved in the program, participating in judging the events, networking with students, and performing career outreach. These companies will receive heightened visibility and they will also have exclusive access to the resumes of the student participants for the opportunity to recruit them. For more information or to get involved, contact Mary Pluta at mpluta@nfpa.com.
Event Hosts
Danfoss Power Solutions
Norgren
Program Sponsors
HYDAC
IFP Motion Solutions Inc.
Norgren
SunSource
Founding Sponsor
Parker Hannifin Corp.
Product Suppliers
Danfoss Power Solutions
Lubrizol
Source Fluid Power
Vest, Inc.
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