Roof Propping Mechanism Design Sprint
- Mohamed Goha
Sprint Goals:
Design a simple roof propping mechanism that is capable of holding the roof panel at different angles during the competition
The roof must be capable of propping between 0 degrees - 90 degrees from the horizontal
The system must be self standing. That is, the prop must be setup and be capable of holding the roof up
The propping mechanism must stay within the aerobody at all times of the race (i.e. any prop rods, pins, telescoping poles need to find a home in the aerobody where they will be found)
Process:
Concept Sketches → Design → Manufacturing
Key Details:
The roof panel is tilted along the left side of the body. The tilting does not have a rotational limit and will rotate until geometry begins clashing. Please refer to the open roof in the position below. The roof is open at 90 degrees, but this is the most extreme case. Most times the roof is propped it will be below 90.
The most important aspects of this design are packaging with the pre-existing geometry, allotting space for any loose geometry to be added (if your design requires a rod of some sort, it needs a place to be mounted during driving), and ease of use.
The simpler the design the better (without giving up functionality).
Feel free to checkout here for previous research done on propping mechanisms here:
Chassis - Roof / Solar Array Tilting System
Note that you will need to make your own development assembly in CAD once you’re ready to tackle on some CAD.
Timeline:
ASAP
Milestone 1:
Conceptual Design
Bring To Review/Action Items:
Initial concept sketches/diagrams (can be hand drawn/digitally made)
Milestone 2:
More fleshed out concept design as well as beginning CAD design.
Bring To Review/Action Items:
Fleshed out concepts (concept will be selected to CAD)
Initial CAD design
Milestone 3:
First complete CAD pass
Bring To Review:
Completed concept CAD
Mounting method solidified and ready for review
Design Log:
Keep a design log for all progress! A design log will help organize all content for presentation.
Sample Design Logs:
