Individual Report Susan Rich
| Date: November 29, 2006 |
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Table of Contents |
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| Author: | Team: |
Problem Statement
Wouldn’t it be fun to ride a skateboard uphill? Team ESK8 believes it would be, in fact that is just what we are going to do. Team ESK8 is designing an electric skateboard that will easily carry an adult uphill. The electric skateboard will ride and maneuver just like a regular longboard skateboard except the rider won’t have to push the skateboard to maintain speed. The skateboard will be powered by rechargeable batteries and will weigh less than thirty-five pounds. While the skateboard will be driven by an electric motor it will also have the ability to coast and safely brake. The electric skateboard will have a smooth, sleek form made from composite materials and will utilize easily attainable parts.
One of the challenges posed by the electric skateboard design is how to effectively transfer power from the motor shaft to the drive wheels. I have explored many solutions to the drive system dilema. This report discusses the decision making process and solution for our electric skateboard’s drive mechanism.
Requirements:
The drive mechanism must fulfill the following criteria:
- Efficient
- Stable
- Maneuverable
- Has the ability to coast
- Durable
- Easily machined/manufactured
- Uses readily available parts
- Reliable
- Safe
Specifications:
The drive mechanism must also fulfill the following specifications:
- Compact size
- Minimal weight
- Reasonable cost
- Long lasting
Concept Generation and Sketches:
For the drive mechanism many concepts were explored. Click here for the concept generation process.
Downselect and Design Refinement:
The many drive mechanism concepts were compared to each other and to how well they met certain design metrics. After downselecting the concepts, two designs that best fit the metrics were developed. Click here for more detail.
Final Selection, Data, Assembly Drawing, and Calculations:
The final concept selected for the drive mechanism is a chain driven rear axle. This concept not only best meets the engineering metrics but also meets the requirements of the system. For assembly drawings and calculations click here.
Conclusion:
The electric skateboard design requires an effective mode of power transfer from the motor to the drive wheels. After investigating many different design concepts a chain driven rear axle was chosen for efficient power transfer from the motor to the drive wheels. This concept was chosen after comparing all the concepts based on the design requirements and specifications.