Engineering Projects/Electric Cars/Howard Community College/Fall2011/550 ekart Weekly Reports
Link to project ekart team page.
Week Zero edit
- Researched go kart frames
- Researched revival methods for batteries
Week One edit
- Created a presentation to be present to the the schools funding board. Presentation is Power Point based and includes a justification for the expenditure for the kart itself plus a proposal of creating a competition put on by Howard CC.
- Tested a donated forklift motor. Approximate horsepower is rated at 1.1hp. Were able to cycle the motor with the use of lead acid battery through a network of 4 gauge wires.
- Created an itemized parts list that includes part's function, technical specifications, possible vendors, and approximate price.
Week Two edit
- Arranged for a donor speed control
- A computer model was developed of the frame with the locations of key components of the power-train.
- Frame was constructed using a MIG welder and steel hollow tubes.
- Identified issues with the donor motor regarding the installation
Week Three edit
- A motor mount prototype was constructed using plywood. Solid design allows for adjust-ability of the the drive-train.
- Bought used frame from Craigslist's private vendor.
- Modified steering column and seat to accommodate an adult.
- Welded the side compartments for the 12V batteries.
- Changed front wheels and greased up all bearings and moving connections in the frame.
Week Four edit
- Researched circuitry components for ekart's electrical system.
- Bought more components for ekart's ESC System (cables, plugs, fuses, etc.)
- Tested ekart frame using a 24V system and 0.5HP fan motor.