goose v2
SpaceX Hyperloop Challenge 2017-2018
University of Waterloo
Shell design and production
Proposed model of future passenger and freight transportation
Nicknamed after the Canadian water fowl who ravage the university campus
Overview
The goose v2 is a half-scale, functional prototype vehicle pod. Fabrication has been completed for this pod. This pod had entered in the SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition to perform full systems tests on SpaceX’s one mile long test track at high-speeds and in a vacuum in Hawthorne, California. One of twenty four teams invited, representing Canada's only team in the competition.
Specifications
Weight: 150 kg
Speed: 550 km/hr
Shell cost: $2,000
Total costs: $25,000
Levitation
A lightweight pneumatic levitation system that allowed the pod to float over a thin cushion of compressed air – creating almost zero drag. Air is supplied by two high pressure carbon fiber tanks and sent to four air casters positioned underneath the levitation and suspension module.
Eddy Current Brakes
As its name suggests, is the contact-less braking system that utilizes the eddy current phenomena to smoothly slow down the pod from high speeds. An array of powerful magnets are used to provide the braking effect.
Shell
A fiberglass composition keeps the structure light and operable at up to trans-sonic velocities.
Process