Looking for an exciting, fun winter challenge? The participants in the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Clean Snowmobile Challenge (CSC) 2014 are this week! The Keweenaw Research Center (KRC) and the Michigan Tech Dept. of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics are hosting the challenge that started on Monday March 3rd and wraps up this Saturday, March 8th.
The SAE CSC is an engineering design competition for college and university student members to reengineer existing snowmobiles to reduce noise and emissions with the intent of designing acceptable snowmobiles for usage in environmentally sensitive areas such as National Parks. The CSC is typically an “engine” competition however the underlying theme has remained consistent to engineer a clean and quiet trail sled.
The modified snowmobiles will compete in a variety of events including static display, fuel economy/endurance, handling, cold start and design. Several of the participants include not only Michigan Tech student teams but also North Dakota State University, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Northern Illinois University, Clarkson University and University of Wisconsin teams to name a few.
There are several events scheduled during the week-long event including a few opportunities for spectator viewership. On Tuesday, March 4th at 10 a.m., the grand opening event includes the NSF Electric Sled Range Test and Endurance Run to Copper Harbor, starting from the KRC T3 location.
On Wednesday, March 5th there will be a snowmobile public display from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Copper Country mall for spectators to see the reengineered machines up close and personal.
Saturday, March 8th at 10 a.m., there will be a Polaris Acceleration and Objective Handling Event as well as a ZE Acceleration and Load Test at the KRC Test Course at 11 a.m. The challenge event will conclude with an awards banquet Saturday night at the MUB Ballroom beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Even with these fun-filled demonstration events there are also are additional learning opportunities with technical talks and presentations throughout the week from industry personnel on different topics such as precious metals and catalysts to sound quality. This week’s event is sure to be a thrilling fun time for participants and spectators alike. Safe and fun riding this week!