Biosystems Engineering Students Compete in National Competition

The Auburn University War Eagle Pullers -- a student team of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering -- competed in the American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE) 1/4-Scale Tractor Design Competition June 3-6 in East Moline, Ill. The team of biosystems engineering students placed third in maneuverability, 16th in tractor pull, and 19th overall out of approximately 30 teams from across the nation.

This was Auburn's second year participating in the competition, in which both two- and four-wheel drive tractors can enter. This year's performance in the tractor pull earned Auburn second place in the two-wheel drive category.

"The team is very satisfied with its performance," says Christian Brodbeck, a graduate assistant in biosystems engineering from Fairhope, Ala. who is the team's design and construction leader. "We are already gearing up for next year's competition, beginning with designs for a competitive four-wheel drive tractor in an attempt to place in the top 10."

The objective of the annual competition is to engage engineering students in the design and construction of a 1/4-scale tractor using a standard engine and tires. Teams are judged on design report, marketing presentation, maneuverability and tractor pull. In addition to advancing technical skills, the competition helps enhance communication, leadership, teamwork and fundraising.

"Student teams promote camaraderie and enable students to gain hands-on experience working from concept to prototype," says Tim McDonald, faculty advisor and member of the biosystems engineering faculty. "The team is really excited about its progress. The students have put in a lot of hard work and the competition gets them fired up."

Also serving as team advisor is James Baier of the biosystems engineering faculty. Team sponsors include the College of Engineering, BushHog, Inc. of Selma, Ala., and Knox Kershaw, Inc. of Montgomery.

"Our team made good progress this year," adds Steve Taylor, head of the Department of Biosystems Engineering. "With no mechanical repairs or modifications to make during the competition, our team's frame and drive proved to be virtually bullet proof ¾ good old Auburn Engineering at work."

For more information, visit:

• 2004 Quarter-scale Competition
• American Society of Agricultural Engineers