PUHI — The installation of a $75,000 dynometer brought the Kaua‘i Community College automotive department into the arena of high technology, said KCC instructor Tante Azares, Wednesday. Bret Williamson of Colorado Springs, Colo. was on campus conducting training for the
PUHI — The installation of a $75,000 dynometer brought the Kaua‘i Community College automotive department into the arena of high technology, said KCC instructor Tante Azares, Wednesday.
Bret Williamson of Colorado Springs, Colo. was on campus conducting training for the new dynometer with alumni of the KCC Automotive Technology program and staff of the college’s automotive department.
“The most important facet of this new piece of equipment is reducing liability,” KCC instructor Darryl Gerardo said. “The students can now troubleshoot, diagnose problems, and test a car without having to do the road test.”
The dynometer works to analyze a wide variety of data by using a computerized collection box connected to a rolling wheel which drives the automobile. Additional data is collected using auxiliary sensors connected to the collection box.
Data is transferred to computers for analysis and corrective action with data available in real time as corrective measures are taken.
Williamson said the data can also be transferred to other computers for classroom learning.
Azares said the college purchased the dynometer several years ago, but did not have it hooked up due to the cost involved for installation.
He said a grant allowed the instrument to finally be hooked up and made operational. KCC is now the only college in the University of Hawai‘i system to have this type of dynometer.
Labeled a chassis dyno, Azares said it allows drivers an opportunity to get true horsepower ratings produced by an automobile without having to run the cars down a track.
“This dyno brings the high tech world of automotive to the students,” Azares said.
The goals of KCC automotive program include preparing the student with the skills and competencies necessary for a successful career as an automotive technician, states the KCC website.
In addition to skills needed, the program also provides the student with the basic skills necessary to become a lifelong learner in order to keep abreast of the latest technological advances in the automotive field.
Go to www.kauai.hawaii.edu for more information.
• Dennis Fujimoto, photographer and staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 253) or dfujimoto@ thegardenisland.com.
