Mini Video #5

The last in a series of "mini" videos, this FANG video summarizes the "test bench" and scoring tools that competitors will use to help predict the performance of their vehicle designs during Challenge #1.

The test benches assess each design in a simulated environment and evaluate how well it meets the design requirements by calculating performance against key metrics, such as top speed or range or the ability to climb an incline. Competitors can visualize and collaborate on their design in the VCDE (Virtual Collaborative Design Environment). Once a design is submitted for scoring, the team will be given a numerical score and an array of performance data on a graphical “Dashboard” showing how well each requirement has been met.

Challenge #1 — Requirements and Scoring

Challenge #1 starts on January 14, 2013 to design the drivetrain and mobility system of the next generation amphibious infantry fighting vehicle.

This video outlines the requirements of the first competition and how design entries will be scored. Teams can maximize their scores by exceeding thresholds and getting as close to the objective as possible for each requirement metric. For any design to be successful, competitors must give special attention to Key Performance Parameters, the essential performance attributes that are critical to the vehicle’s operational capability. After the first two months of the competition, the highest scoring teams will continue into the final round of design and testing.

Mini Video #4

As part of a new generation of collaborative designers, you can begin to learn in this video how your team's cutting-edge FANG Challenge design to develop the best amphibious infantry-fighting vehicle will be assessed by DARPA. Discovering and integrating novel approaches and ground-breaking advancements requires imagination through the power of the META design tools and model libraries through VehicleFORGE. Competitors should design performance around the minimum thresholds and stretch goal objective while overcoming the constraints. Continuous optimization is key. Learn more, and register, at www.vehicleforge.org

Mini Video #3

Learn how the FANG Challenges platform -- VehicleFORGE.org -- can help you collaborate, communicate, and cooperate with other designers and team members. This "mini" video touches on some of the key features of VehicleFORGE that you'll be able to access in your team's private workspace, such as wikis, task trackers, version control, CAD visualizer and the immersive virtual workshop.

Any questions, comments, or concerns can be submitted via fang@vehicleforge.org.

Design & Collaboration in VehicleFORGE

The start of FANG Challenge #1 is right around the corner! In just a few weeks, teams will start designing the Next-Generation Amphibious Infantry Fighting Vehicle in pursuit of a $1M prize. This video explains more about the VehicleFORGE collaboration site and how competitors will use the design tools and connect with team members. To learn more about the FANG Challenges, go to http://www.vehicleforge.org. The countdown is on!

Any questions, comments, or concerns can be submitted via fang@vehicleforge.org.

Mini Video #2

Check out the video above to learn about how to get started on your winning FANG Design.

The video highlights component models, pre-submission feedback, design iteration, and introduces collaboration (to be addressed in the next video of this series). When your team is ready to get started, you will want to study the FANG Vehicle Requirements closely and browse the Component Model and Test Bench libraries. Then, your team can begin to compose a cost effective manufacturable design that will meet or exceed the FANG Vehicle requirements. You probably have some of your own novel component designs in mind, so you are welcome to define your own component models (consisting of CAD, Modelica, and XML instance data) and submit them for validation and curation.

Any questions, comments, or concerns can be submitted via fang@vehicleforge.org.

Mini Video #1

Check out the video above to learn more about how to participate in FANG Challenge #1.

The registration link for the DARPA FANG Challenge 1 (Mobility/Drivetrain Challenge) can be found on VehicleFORGE.org. Please review the Challenge rules found in the DARPA FANG Challenge 1 (Mobility/Drivetrain) Guidelines and the DARPA FANG Challenge 1 (Mobility/Drivetrain) Participant Agreement before registering. To be eligible to participate in Challenge 1, individuals must be classified as a "U.S. Person," as defined by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR.) Participants must agree to the terms in the Participant Agreement and verify that they are U.S. Persons before the registration process can be completed. Accepted participants will receive an email from VehicleFORGE, with a request to create a username and password. Once in the system, participants are free to browse the Marketplace for potential teams or form a team. Only official teams will be given secured design space and be able to submit designs for consideration for the prize.

Any questions or comments about the registration process can be submitted via the "Ask a Question" area on VehicleFORGE.org.

Introduction Video

FANG Challenge: Design a Next-Generation Military Ground Vehicle [Sep. 27, 2012] »