In the initial stages
of the design process, we each developed 3 designs independently for the
proposed EV. After intense discussion, we arrived at the model –
‘CELERIS’(shown at the bottom).
Functionally a bicycle
with caster wheels for support, CELERIS was conceived as a vehicle with the
speed, flexibility and handling of a bicycle while possessing the stability of
a four-wheeled vehicle. In addition, the driver is seated in an upright
position, allowing for increased comfort and field of vision. However, the
resultant higher center of gravity requires special attention paid to the
design of the vehicle to ensure stability during turns.
To achieve this
balance, the caster wheels are attached to the main body with flexible joints.
This allows the rider and vehicle to lean to one side, while his/her center of
gravity remains within the base formed by the three wheels (two main and one
caster wheel).
To allow multiple
methods of steering, the front wheel can also be turned, like a bicycle (not
reflected in this sketch). With the battery and motor components mounted
beneath the seat, the center of gravity during normal operation remains firmly
within the intersection of all four wheels, maximizing base stability.
CELERIS
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