Many people are amazed at the fruits of solar energy and while we have seen much of these vehicles powered by solar technology, some backend solutions have been used by University of Michigan students. Among them include the ZScanner 700 and the ZPrinter multicolor 3D printer which play a vital role towards the overall requirements of these new solar-powered cars.

ZScanner 700
Similar to modern day scanners, the ZScanner 700 is tasked to inspect prototypes against digital designs to ensure accuracy for wind tunnel testing. The scanner also captures the engineering data from solar car prototypes.

ZPrinter Multicolor 3D Printer
This device is responsible for the keen layout which helps in the creation of prototypes of parts like its ergonomic steering wheel and motor housing. The prototypes help the team conduct form, fit and functional testing before production. The team also “ZPrints” molds for lightweight carbon fiber parts and car models for display.

The team will take Infinium, unveiled June 5, to the World Solar Challenge, an 1,800-mile race across Australia in October 2009. Co-sponsored by Z Corporation, the team is a perennial high performer: it won the North American Solar Challenge (a 2,400-mile race from Dallas to Calgary, Alberta, Canada) five out of nine times and has finished as high as third in the World Championship three times.

(Source) Press

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