Background
The National Fluid Power Association’s Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge (FPVC) pushes students to combine mechanical power and hydraulic energy in a competitive racing environment. The challenge evaluates performance in four race categories: sprint, endurance, efficiency, and regenerative braking. UC Irvine recently entered the competition for the first time, and this year’s project builds on that foundation to create a more efficient, reliable, and high-performance vehicle. The team draws inspiration from prior top-performing universities while addressing the limitations of UCI’s previous design in energy storage, regenerative efficiency, and manufacturability.
Goal and Objectives
Design, manufacture, and test a high-performance hydraulic-powered trike capable of placing top three at the 2025 FPVC competition in Rockford, IL.
Objectives with Dates:
- September 2025: Initial Team Kickoff
- Nov 2025: Finalize the initial hydraulic schematic, subsystem concepts, and CAD layout.
- Dec 2026: Begin manufacturing, integration, and preliminary testing of hydraulic systems.
- March 2026: Perform full system testing, submit performance video to NFPA, and finalize documentation.
- April 2026: Compete in FPVC; complete all race requirements and present final design.
System Overview
The vehicle converts rider pedaling into hydraulic power using a gear pump, stores energy in a 3000-psi nitrogen-charged accumulator, and releases pressure through a hydraulic motor to propel the wheels. A dedicated regenerative braking loop captures braking energy by back-driving the motor as a pump to recharge the accumulator.
Subsystems & Core Functions
- Chassis & Steering: Modified trike frame for improved stability, load distribution, and mounting space.
- Braking System: Hydraulic disc brakes capable of holding the vehicle under full accumulator charge (3000 psi).
- Hydraulic Circuit: Direct-drive and regen drive states using directional valves, check valves, and pressure relief systems.
- Regenerative Braking: Must store enough energy to push the vehicle 10+ ft after a full stop.
- Electrical System: Solenoids, sensors, and microcontroller-based regulation for valve timing and data display.
Team Point of Contact
Erick Castellanos-Ramirez: castele7@uci.edu
Problem Definition Presentation
FPVC at UC Irvine: Problem Definition Presentation