Old Design

University of Central Florida's Electrathon Design 1995

Last year was the first year that The University of Central FLorida competed in the Electrathon Vehicle Race. A DC 1hp permanent magnet motor powered the three wheeled vehicle to an uncontested first place. The vehicle was set up in a cycle car configuration, with two wheels in front and one in rear. The frame was constructed of 1 1/4 aluminum tubing that supported all components of the suspension steering and drivetrain. The electrical system was a 24 volt DC system. Current and voltage control was governed through a Curtis motor controller. This power was then transfered to the motor, which through a single gear reduction drove the rear wheel. The reduction was done through a cogged belt that gave the motor a 3:1 advantage over the back wheel. The vehicle did not have a true body that reduced aerodynamic drag. The steering was through a cable and pulley system that in the end acted on two rabbit ears that were attache to the spindles and centered around the king pins.