Prototyping/developing a pedal car

[ReaderScars]

I have what I feel is an interesting design for a pedal car which has a pretty novel feature, giving it a dual purpose and extra value (sorry, won't be expanding on that until development/prototyping starts).

Fundamentally I've designed it to be CNC'd from a single sheet of 8x4' ply, CNC cut body panels, seat and wheels, is intended to be belt driven rather than chain and use off the shelf parts where possible.

I have no fabrication/workshop facilities, no background in steering geometry and no experience in 3D modelling, so the reason for the post is that I'd like to make contact with the right individual or outfit who can convert my design/illustrations and notes into a working prototype which I can use for evaluation/promotion etc.

Anyone interested in discussing this further in order to quote for development?

[Frimley111R]

Try BGARK on here (think thats how you spell it)

[Cyder]

I had a load of prototyping done through a company in Letchworth called OGLE who I'm sure could do what you're looking for.

[dudleybloke]

I wouldn't use ply for the wheels.

[BigBen]

I have a mate who made his son an electric car from scratch, he is also a freelance mechanical engineer. PM me if you want to be put in touch.

[ReaderScars]

Thanks for the suggestions and recommendations Frim, Cyder, BigBen.

[ReaderScars]

dudleybloke said:

I wouldn't use ply for the wheels.

Even if they're tyred?

[BGARK]

Give me a shout, we make odd stuff all the time, thanks Frim!

Edited by BGARK on Saturday 16th May 19:46

[dudleybloke]

ReaderScars said:

dudleybloke said:

I wouldn't use ply for the wheels.

Even if they're tyred?

Might be OK with tyres but I would still worry about longevity once they get damp.

[ReaderScars]

dudleybloke said:

Might be OK with tyres but I would still worry about longevity once they get damp.

Was thinking marine ply or varnish/sealer or some sort.

[davepoth]

ReaderScars said:

Was thinking marine ply or varnish/sealer or some sort.

Unless they're very important to the look of the vehicle I'd go with something made of plastic from off the shelf.

[ReaderScars]

OK will consider that - however I was going to use the traditional Bugatti design, laminating two together with the second having been CNC'd in such a way that it gives the finished laminated pair a 'dished' appearance (then sprayed silver). Depends on cost, if I can find a nice looking off the shelf plastic wheel for a good price then that will probably swing it, rather than making a ply item.

[RobinOakapple]

What thickness of plywood are you planning to use?

[tom_loughlin]

Drop me a line re the CAD work, assuming it's not massively complex, I can knock up drawings/DXFs relatively quickly for you.

Sounds interesting

Tom

[ReaderScars]

RobinOakapple said:

What thickness of plywood are you planning to use?

It depends how it responds - perhaps 18mm for a base panel with supporting chassis rails underneath, maybe 21mm without. Other panels 15mm. Any thoughts?

[ReaderScars]

tom_loughlin said:

Drop me a line re the CAD work, assuming it's not massively complex, I can knock up drawings/DXFs relatively quickly for you.

Sounds interesting

Tom

Thanks for the interest Tom, I'm sure you could handle it but leave it with me for now.

[singlecoil]

ReaderScars said:

RobinOakapple said:

What thickness of plywood are you planning to use?

It depends how it responds - perhaps 18mm for a base panel with supporting chassis rails underneath, maybe 21mm without. Other panels 15mm. Any thoughts?

I can't speak for Mr Oakapple, but my concern would be the weight, I handle 8X4 sheets of 18mm birch ply every day, and it's not the sort of weight you would want to drop on your foot.

[dudleybloke]

I would think 6mm would be good enough for the body a kids pedal car with the right bracing.

[ReaderScars]

It could end up going a tad faster than the intended average output of the driver's lirrle legs, but yes now you mention it 18mm does seem a bit excessive even taking that into account. Thanks for bringing it up.

[BGARK]

Is this for a one off prototype or ongoing?