sprg.net .:. Michael Sprague of Asheville, North Carolina

February 18, 2003

Aeronca Champ N46AC

Filed under: aviation — michael @ 6:26 pm

Aircraft Description - N46AC

Serial Number    7AC-3382
Manufacturer Name   CHAMPION
Model   AERONCA 7BCM
Type Aircraft   Fixed Wing Single-Engine
MFR Year   1946
Engine Manufacturer   CONT MOTOR
Engine Model   C85 SERIES
A/W Date   08/27/1955

Aeronca Champ N46AC



This is one of the planes that I received flight instruction in. I was very close to getting my taildragger endorsement.

February 14, 2003

School Projects

Filed under: technology — michael @ 3:36 pm

Two applications I would like to pursue are “smart” buildings and renewable energy.

I feel that many buildings could benefit from the addition of computer control for security and fire protection as well as the control of existing HVAC and lighting systems. The automation can be used to offer improvements in the comfort and convenience of the inhabitants. One example of this is a project I completed for one of my classes. It is an automated pet door that offers the convenience of a conventional pet door, but with added security and weather protection made possibile by using a microprocessor and motorized door actuation.

For another class I worked with a group to develop a fuzzy logic temperature control system. This is basically a computer driven heater and fan with optomization for energy savings and comfort level. Both of these systems could be integrated into a complete home automation system very easily.

I am also interested in the use of renewable energy, such as solar and wind, to power homes and businesses. I have not been able to get hands-on experience in this area yet. I would like to build a portable solar-charged power source with battery storage. It would be capable of supplying power to lights and small appliances independently of power companies and gasoline engines.