The Application of a Hot Water Pumping System to Automobile Windshields
One of the most prevalent dangers in the winter is frosted windshields. They impair visibility while driving and often increase time required to prepare the vehicle for safe driving. To make automobiles safe, the researchers wanted to design a system to quickly defrost a windshield.
The researchers hypothesized that a hot water pumping system would quickly and effectively defrost an automobile windshield. In addition, this system could be run with minimal amounts of electric power and have no effect on wireless communication signals.
To test their hypothesis, the researchers created an apparatus that would simulate a windshield. After applying a mist of water, it was placed in a freezer for 45 minutes to allow the surface to frost. A stopwatch was started as the apparatus was simultaneously removed from the freezer. One end of the apparatus’ tubing was attached to the pump while the other was allowed to rest freely inside a thermos containing heated water. When the surface ice had liquefied enough to easily wipe off, the stopwatch was stopped and the defrost time was recorded.
On average, the 70 °C water took about 120 seconds to defrost; 400% less time than warm air alone. The 80 °C water took about 105 seconds to defrost. Lastly, the 90 °C water took an average of 90 seconds to defrost. Although the design of the system could be altered to further improve defrost time and visibility through the glass, the researchers concluded that a hot water pumping system would be fast and effective in defrosting a windshield.
Research Conducted By:
Noah Conner
Cousino High School
Ryan Hallock
Cousino High School
Warren Consolidated Schools