One of the first things that need to be decided is what type of suspension and steering mechanism that will be used. I plan on using a double wishbone suspension for the front suspension, unlike most commercially available models which use a McPherson strut assembly. Either design would work, but the double wishbone suspension allows the use of bike shocks. There are a lot of choices when it comes to bike shocks, from adjustable height, dampening, and load.
The double wishbone suspension is going to add weight but will allow more adjustment for the velomobile's suspension. Camber and caster will be adjustable, to an extent, with a double wishbone suspension. By being able to adjust the suspension, the performance and/or life of the tires can be extended. A double wishbone suspension has a lower and upper A arm with a shock attached to either arm.
A double wishbone suspension also allows for the suspension to attached to the main support frame, instead of adding extra support to the top of the wheel well for a McPherson suspension, which would add weight and not be as adjustable. I should be able to bolt everything together, for ease of assembly and fabrication.
Double wish bone suspension
- Adjustable Camber
- Adjustable Caster
- Completely supported by the main frame
- No weld design
Steering
The steering will be either double tiller or a steering bar. Both methods will utilize Ackerman steering. The double tiller allows for a more open feeling with nothing to maneuver around while enter and exiting the vehicle. The steering bar allow for simpler fabrication, less parts to adjust and maintain. The steering bar could pose a safety hazard while exiting the velomobile in an emergency.
The rear suspension will be addressed at a later date. I need to draw some of my ideas on the computer, or find a way to scan my hand drawings.
Hey,
ReplyDeleteFound your posts through a Google alert on 'velomobile'. Gotta say that I'm an interested, and involved, party, as I've been riding a Quest since November, and I absolutely love it. It was the right decision for me, but I'm thrilled with seeing what folks come up with for homebuilt setups.
If you're looking at going double wishbone up front, I think that is what the Greenspeed Glyde is going with, and similar reason, to use existing bike shocks, but for them also to accomodate their spaceframe setup. If you did end up thinking about the strut style, you can purchase the strut assemblies from Velomobiel, the folks who make the Quest.
Here you're referring to a 'steering bar', is that your description of the type of steering found on the Quest/Mango/GoOne? Center mounted column that can pivot on a U-joint, but turns by twisting. I've become very comfortable with that in the Quest. Usually ride with the t-handle resting on my belly, but nice to be able to move it around without affecting the steering. The double tiller, that's more of the 'tank style', with handles on each side (WAW/AeroRider)? That does give a more open feel, but the bit that I've ridden doesn't feel like it has as much fine control, especially at speed.
I am glad you were able to find the blog. I appreciate your feedback.
ReplyDeleteI think the double wishbone will be more in line for my ideas. I am trying to save money by making several of the parts myself. I will research the Greenspeed Glyde. Thanks for that info. I tried calling a couple companies for McPherson struts assemblies and they didn't have any extra to sell at the time. There production comes first, which I can appreciate.
I was trying to reference a steering system like the Quest/Mango/GoOne, when I stated a "Steering bar". My terminology is a little off. Please check in and leave more feedback.
Sincerely,
David
I should ask (and not assume) if you know of the possible discussions available at www.Bentrideronline.com ? Fairly active recumbent forums, with quite a few velomibile pilots (velonauts!), and many others that want to be. I'm sure some folks there would love to hear of progress and design ideas for a homebuilt velo, especially from scratch and not just a coroplast covered trike (which does have its own benefits).
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