View Single Post
Old 08-19-2010, 12:00 AM   #92 (permalink)
NeilBlanchard
Master EcoModder
 
NeilBlanchard's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Maynard, MA Eaarth
Posts: 7,908

Mica Blue - '05 Scion xA RS 2.0
Team Toyota
90 day: 42.48 mpg (US)

Forest - '15 Nissan Leaf S
Team Nissan
90 day: 156.46 mpg (US)

Number 7 - '15 VW e-Golf SEL
TEAM VW AUDI Group
90 day: 155.81 mpg (US)
Thanks: 3,475
Thanked 2,952 Times in 1,845 Posts
Do you want me to send you the SketchUp file? You can download SketchUp for free from Google. I might even try dropping the CarBEN model into a Boston street in Google Earth and see it in context...

I think the windows in the CarBEN would have to be Lexan or similar. Ideally, they would be low-E coated to reduce the heat gain, but that is later on.

The alternate to the bandsaw is an orbital jig saw -- fast cutting is needed since I have to make between 30 and 60 ribs (3"-6" apart!) and many of the cuts are 6-9 feet long.

The shape of the windshield is critical to the aerodynamics, and I don't think I can find anything even remotely close to what is required for this design.

New texture (obviously), and intake vent added (just under the front license plate). I added two of the 5'-9" tall figures from SketchUp for scale reference.



I made a few other subtle adjustments, including recessing the windows a bit so that they show up on the sections, and so they will be flush when the glazing is installed.

I'm leaning back to doing a fiberglass shell with steel tube chassis on the first one, because I am not confident that I could execute the structural mounting points, and reinforcing, etc. that a monocoque would require. So, the starting point is the same. The other snag is the band saw in my neighbor's wood shop is broken... I gotta' see if my friend building the airplane is done with his, or buy a used one. :-/
__________________
Sincerely, Neil

http://neilblanchard.blogspot.com/
  Reply With Quote