Testing

The device was evaluated by a number of methods according to the design requirements listed in the Analysis section. Applicable requirements were prorated to accommodate the constructed device being a 1/4 scale model.

The performed tests were as follows:

• The Weight Test evaluated the prorated design requirement of the device being less than 200 pounds.

• The Extension Test evaluated the device's ability to extend the booms and feet and counteract the moment caused by the wind tower.

• The Retraction Test evaluated the device's ability to fit on the trailer and retract the booms inside the largest tube.

• The Foot Rotation Test evaluated the device's ability to keep the trailer level within 5 degrees and operate on slopes of up to 15% grades.

• The Structural Integrity Test evaluated the device's ability to counteract the weight and thrust of the wind tower and trailer.

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One testing issue that had to be dealt with originated from the device being scaled to 1/4 size for construction and testing. Certain modifications to the design were required in order to accommodate the limited size and scope of the scale model. The extension/retraction system had to be changed from a chain and sprocket design to a wire rope and pulley system. This change impacted the evaluation of the extension/retraction system because the wire rope and pulley system was not as effective as the chain and sprocket design was projected to be. Additionally, the hydraulic portion of the design was not able to be evaluated because the scope of the scale model eliminated the hydraulic all together.