Structure
Design Concepts
Team Bowbot plans to design the structure of the vehicle to maximize its cargo loading area and maneuverability. Our goal is to construct the design in such a way that it can maneuver amongst wheelchair ramps and walkways, carry a cargo load of 300 lbs, and withstand 30 mph winds. Security features are to be installed into the structure to protect cargo and prevent theft.
The Frame and Body
Manufacturing the structure of the vehicle will be done in two stages: the frame and the body. The frame will first be assembled through aluminum bars to offer support, then the panels of that comprise the body will be added after. Read below to learn more about our selected design materials and methods.
Space Frame
Lightweight, yet Strong
When strategizing how to design the supporting frame of the vehicle, lightweight and stable is our goal. The frame of the vehicle will utilize the Space Frame technique. This technique is lightweight and strength can be varied at different points throughout the structure. It has excellent manufacturing ability and provides great support.
Aluminum 6061-T6
Corrosion Resistant
The University of Hawaii at Manoa campus is located in an often wet region of the island. In order to avoid water-related damage to the vehicle, the frame bars and body panels of the vehicle will be made of Aluminum 6061-T6.  This material is corrosion-resistant, making it able to withstand the rainy environment of UH Manoa without rapidly deteriorating over time. Aluminum 6061-T6 is also lightweight and inexpensive
Fiberglass
Sleek
Team Bowbot wants to look good while our vehicle traverses the college campus, so we went with a material that provides a nice, rounded, sleek finish and still offers ample support and protection. Fiberglass allows us to mold and create a more curved and aerodynamic design so that our vehicle can withstands winds and offers plenty of design freedom.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the AEV will be...
30 inches
in height
30 inches
in width
30 inches
in length