Drill Powered Vehicle

Initially a design for Component Design, this bike was intended for an endurance race around a track using a 20V drill. I managed this project from the initial concept to the end of the preliminary design phase. The final assembly was not completed due to COVID-19 restrictions.

As the project manager I ran meetings, constructed a budget, and created a detailed timeline of project goals as well as assisting in CAD work and completing FEA on the frame and shafts.

Objective: Endurance Optimization

  • Lightweight

    • Under 50 lbs
    • Minimize unneeded components

  • Cost Effective

    • Budget $200
    • Pre-owned components
    • Low cost materials

  • Drivability

  • Maneuverable
  • Easy power adjustment


Endurance Racetrack

FEA analysis of the maximum displacement at rider location

Background

This project is a part of the Component Design class at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Component Design focuses on the application of mechanics and materials science to the detailed design of various machine elements.

Students work in teams throughout the semester to design and build drill powered vehicles which then compete in various challenges at the end of the semester.

My team chose to complete the endurance course which meant we needed a lightweight vehicle with easy power adjustment.

Challenges

  • Teamwork

    • My teammates and I did not know each other in the beginning of the semester and thus had to spend some time learning how to work together. We spent time discussing various roles we could take on before diving into the project which helped everything run smoothly and assured each portion of the assignment was completed.

  • Time management and budget

    • We were given about a month between forming teams and design review to plan a vehicle for under $200. I created a timeline for each phase of the project as well as a bill of materials to help us keep track of our entire design. Our design relied heavily on using recycled go kart parts to keep material costs low.

Results

This project was completed through the end of the preliminary design phase.

Minor changes were set to be made such as adding a support between the front of the bike and the drill plate. Due to COVID-19 restrictions a final assembly was not completed.

Overall I learned a lot about project management and design during this process and look forward to expanding my skills further throughout Senior Design.