Booth Id:
ENMC056
Category:
Engineering Mechanics
Year:
2020
Finalist Names:
Dreeckmeier, Marthinus (School: Hoerskool Waterkloof)
Abstract:
Parallel parking in congested city streets decreases traffic flow. Parking spaces take up more space. Cars cannot drive left / right directly - only forwards / backwards and have to steer left & right. The goal of this project was to design and build a model and a working application model of a new, alternative multi-directional gear- and wheel system that works mechanically that will allow a wheel to turn and move directly in multiple directions.
The design considerations, functions & specifications were identified. The functional criticality analysis & specification criticality analysis served as input to the design criteria. 4 Initial concepts were identified & evaluated. The detail design followed an iterative process of designing, building, assembling, testing and improving the model.
3 Models of the concept were built. Model 1 was designed to move in 4 directions directly, while models 2 & 3 were designed as an improvement on manoeuvrability (6 & 8 directions). Testing confirmed that all models move multi-directionally.
2 Applications were evaluated to demonstrate the use of the spherical gear-wheel. A model of a wheelchair was designed, built and tested successfully.
Tests showed that all design specifications were met:
• Works mechanically
• Allows a wheel to turn in at least 4 directions directly
• Is suitable for use in a conventional car / wheelchair
• Can brake & stop
Tests showed that all design specifications for the application model were met:
• Spherical gear-wheel is used & it improves application functionality
• Application model turns in at least 4 directions directly
The concept was proven: mathematically; through building different models; with constructions & drawings; with CAD animations; and with an application model.