Spartan Hyperloop

San Jose State University

Thomas Baker

President 2018

What is Spartan Hyperloop?

Spartan Hyperloop is the fastest growing all-student-led multidisciplinary initiative at San Jose State University. Our team spans the departments of mechanical, electrical, computer, chemical, civil and software engineering. We have a sizable business operations team that encompass projects such as: sponsor outreach, social media/graphics, photography/videography and events planning. The Spartan Hyperloop project is an integral part of our University’s goal to establish a culture of innovation on campus.

SpaceX advisors at the 2018 competition cycle deemed us scrappy for our ability to be resourceful. Our scrappy attitude has propelled us to become one of the most recognized engineering projects on campus. We provide an unmatched return on investment in developing practical skills, benefitting more than 60 underclass, master’s and senior projects each competition cycle. This year alone we had over 200 applicants, almost unheard of for engineering groups on campus.

Silicon Valley is a long-time beneficiary of the engineering talent produced at SJSU. Spartan Hyperloop is helping develop the next generation of quality Spartan engineers. We look forward to partnering with sponsors that share our motivation for innovative projects.

What is Hyperloop?

Elon Musk, famous for Tesla and SpaceX, popularized the concept of Hyperloop technology in 2013.

The tech is easy to understand. High-speed trains will travel through near-vacuum tubes connecting major cities. They will travel at speeds exceeding 700mph, reducing travel time. For example a trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles on a hyperloop will be under 45 minutes. The near-vacuum tubes and the use of magnetic-levitation are important factors in reducing friction and improving energy efficiency.

Prototype
Prototype

The Hyperloop Challenge

Hyperloop represents the greatest leap in transportation technology.

Today, companies like Hyperloop One and Hyperloop Transportation Technologies are racing to develop a proof-of-concept. Projects across the world, such as Dubai to Abu Dhabi, Nevada, China, and Washington DC, have shown potential for being the first testing grounds for this innovative technology.

Subteams

Electrical

Controls & Communication: Creating the instructions for the pod to guide through its successful operation from start to finish. Using microcontrollers to interface with sensors and actuators.

Battery Management: Battery research development which aims to deliver high power at a low weight.

Mechanical

Chassis Design: Developing a semi-monocoque composite frame which supports the pod structure and houses all subsystems.

Powertrain: Developing high-power and braking system.

Business Operations

Sponsor Outreach: Developing relationships with Silicon Valley and large multinational technology companies.

Marketing: Spreading awareness of the practical experience gained by spartan hyperloop members.

Procurements and Reports: Aiding the purchase of equipment and materials in a cost-effective manner. Gathering the valuable project information to help in project management and reporting to external stakeholders.

Leadership

Special thanks to our 2017-18 sponsors