DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF AN ELECTRIC KART

Sathish kumar N, Vignesh A

Abstract: This paper presents the design and analysis of an electric motor powered kart. The main aim of this paper is to reduce the usage of organic fuel powered vehicles and to design a vehicle which works efficiently in the emerging electric vehicle sector. In order to maintain the speed levels of the kart, seamless decision was made in motor selection. Alternate materials have been applied in the kart to reduce both static and dynamic forces in pursuance of improving the efficiency and performance of the kart. Detailed design of subsystems like chassis frame, steering system, electrical power train and braking mechanism has been done effectively. The main focus of the frame design was on the stability of the kart and safety of the driver. The CAD model of the kart was done in CREO 2.0. Aluminium alloy 6063 has been employed for the frame to reduce the overall weight. To check the feasibility of the frame design, finite element analysis has been done using ANSYS 14.5. The results obtained showed that the frame design was safe under maximal impact load conditions. Weight reduction was a major concern and hence linkage type steering was selected for the kart. Motor, the heart of the electric vehicle was selected and installed in such a way that it can perform well for an extended run time. PMDC motor was selected in this case. Speed control of the kart was done using a voltage controller. The kart is provided with a timing belt drive to achieve maximum efficiency in transmission of power from the motor to the wheels. Hydraulic disc brakes were provided for smooth and effective braking under both dry and wet conditions. Slick tires are used to provide more traction. Design calculations were carried out and optimum results were obtained. An extensive market survey was also done on frame material, brakes, motor, transmission system for cost and availability. International standards were followed throughout the design process.

Keywords: Stability, Frame, Finite Element Analysis, PMDC Motor, Timing belt

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15623/ijret.2015.0404003