Otto-Schwerdt Secondary School has been supporting the ‘Old Regensburg Tram’ project for many years. Among other things, the pupils have restored the historic seat shells of the 1955 tram motor car, thereby making an important contribution to preserving a piece of Regensburg’s city history. OTH Regensburg has also been involved in the project for several years. In the Laboratory for Electrical Machines and Drive Technology, work is underway on a battery-electric drive system for the historic tram. Students from various disciplines are developing and optimising, amongst other things, power electronics and drive technology for the future operation of the historic tram.
In recognition of their involvement in the tram project, the pupils of Class 9a were invited to OTH Regensburg. In the Laboratory for Electrical Machines and Drive Technology, they gained fascinating insights into the work involved in the battery-electric drive system of the historic tram. Laboratory Head Prof. Dr Bernhard Hopfensperger introduced the pupils to OTH Regensburg, the laboratory and the current development work, and guided the group through the various test facilities.
It wasn’t just theory, though. Through illustrative experiments, the pupils were able to experience fundamental electrical phenomena first-hand. For example, Prof. Dr Hopfensperger demonstrated the difference between alternating and direct current and showed the effects that switching direct current can have. Particularly impressive was an experiment that clearly showed how, when a direct current circuit is disconnected, an electric arc is generated which can damage switches and contacts. The pupils also learnt why this phenomenon plays an important role in, for example, photovoltaic systems and battery systems.
A magnetically levitating metal ball also sparked great enthusiasm. A magnetic field was generated using a coil, within which the ball floated freely. The pupils were given the chance to try out for themselves how the ball is held in position. The experiment vividly illustrated what engineers in the field of control and drive technology work on. Many pupils then wanted to try making the metal ball levitate themselves.
During the laboratory tour, Prof. Dr Hopfensperger also gave the young people a personal insight into his own educational journey. He emphasised how important it is to discover what you are passionate about and which subjects really interest you, so that you can later develop your own career path. He himself first completed secondary school, then went on to gain university entrance qualifications via a technical college, and is now a professor at OTH Regensburg. In doing so, he impressively demonstrated to the pupils that different educational pathways can lead to success.
Following the laboratory visit, the pupils got to know OTH Regensburg better during a tour of the campus. Accompanied by two students and members of the student council (StuV), they gained an insight into everyday life at the university and the wide range of study options available at OTH Regensburg. The visit not only offered fascinating insights into current research and technology, but also demonstrated how a commitment to craftsmanship, technical innovation and higher education can work together successfully.
