Hydraulic power is everywhere, right? When I thought of fluid power prior to CCEFP, the first thing that I thought of were tractors and jack mechanisms. I guess the main point is that the notions that I had of fluid power involved large pieces of equipment that were bulky and inaccurate. The most interesting aspect of fluid power is that it has applications in small, extremely precise machines. Some of these include biomedically engineered braces and prosthetics as well as the hydraulic strain accumulator, which is relatively small because of its high energy density. These mechanisms are super accurate and reap the benefits of controllability, like that of electrical systems. I believe the emphasis that has recently been placed on hydraulics (because of centers like the CCEFP) is precisely where the research needs to be administered. If these hydraulic systems can be controlled and developed accurately, the potential would be much greater than that of electrical systems.
The ability for hydraulic systems to be controlled with precision was a revelation for me that gave me hope in many new potential uses. I think it is really cool to be apart of this program because it is innovative and is looking for the solutions that are difficult on the forefront, but have a greater potential for managing energy.
Have a great week!
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