The Via

Unveiling
Conceptualization
Design & Evaluation
Construction

A Hybrid Solar- and Human-Powered Commuter

The idea for the VIA project originated in the HPV built while at the University of Michigan. The concept combined front-wheel-drive and rear-wheel steering in a delta configuration. It was designed to lean in turns, much like a bicycle does. Though never outfitted with solar panels, it was designed to accommodate them and the entire concept was centered around a hybridization between human- and solar-power. It was unveiled at an opening in Slusser gallery at the School of Art and Design of the University of Kansas.

Conceptualization


Sketches
From the beginning of the conceptualization process, I had envisioned the Via as both a practical means of transportation for the average athletically-inclined commuter. The sketches that I created, represented it as the sleek bullet that most consumers could see themselves in.

Prototyping
I began building prototypes of the vehicle's frame and faring to test different ideas of how to integrate my steering concept with an aerodynamic shell. As these early prototypes progressed, it became clear that every design decision would have to be validated mathematically or through testing.

Orthographics
A complete set of orthographic drawings was done at each stage in the design process. This allowed me to apply actual sacles and dimensions on otherwise loose concepts. Energy conservation was essential, so all systems would be optimized for weight. It would have to accommodate a range of body sizes.

Evaluation


Modeling
The physics of bicycle steering dictates that the amount it leans when turning is a function of it's speed and the radius of the curve. This mathematical relationship provides the basis for making any vehicle perform like a bicycle during steering. The ratio of the lean angle to the steering angle then also become a function of speed. A number of test mechanisms were created to model this relationship as closely as possible.

Structural Analysis
To optimize the frame's weight for the stresses that would be put on it, I used the application Image 3D to model the structure and estimate stresses and deflections. I felt it necessary to add a suspension system to provide as much confort as possible to the rider and the computer model was able to take this into account. Using this computer model, I was able to guage the optimum tubing dimensions.

Windtunnel Testing
One of the final tests before construction was wind tunnel testing of the aerodynamic faring. I was assigned a graduate engineering student within the aeronautical engineering department. I built a 1/4 scale model of the faring and performed a series of tests to determine both the total expected drag coefficient and the relative stability in a 25 m.p.h. cross wind. The drag coefficient tested a relatively low .189.

Construction


Frame and Steering Mechanism
The the VIA's frame used lugs machined from welded aluminum rods at all joints. Wooden jigs were constructed to maintain proper geometry during TIG welding. The steering mechanism was completed as designed, with a plan to redesign it after the vehicle was unveiled. It was constructed of machined aluminum components, steel springs, Kevlar, plastic, and steel or bronze bearings.

Faring
The construction of the faring was both arduous and complex. A positive "plug" of the faring's underside was created and fiberglass mold was created from the plug. The body was laid up into the mold using Kevlar, foam, and epoxy resin. The widows and roof used vacuum-molded Lexan and ABS.

Final Assembly
The final assembly of the VIA included some purchased components such as wheels, disk brakes, and derailleurs. A shifting mechanism was constructed to both change gears and control the steering mechanism. A small on-board computer monitored the steering system and informed the rider when any system was operating outside of design parameters.