Team 20: HANSCycles

Prototype Testing

Prototype finished in late March 2016
Testing to begin in early April 2016

RLT Design Iteration

Replace axle with hardened steel
Changing bolts for better aesthetic

Data Procurement

Test power generation of RLT in April 2016
Continuity report for next HANScycle team

The overarching goal of the Reciprocating Lever Transmission (RLT) is to design an improved bicycle crank and transmission. To accomplish this, a few objectives must be met. First, the RLT must be able to generate enough torque to climb a 37% gradient hill—this is the maximum grade of any known paved roadway. The crank must also be designed such that it does not have any dead spots. These dead spots are detrimental to user joint health and provide no power generation. Additionally, the crank must be designed to withstand a high torque. Since the RLT must rely on longer crank arms to generate the required force to efficiently power the bicycle, a larger torque will be placed on the crank due to their increased lengths. Finally, a frame must be designed specifically for the crank and transmission. The longer crank arms in addition to the larger transmission required for the bicycle would require a modification or a potential overhaul to bicycle frame design.

Thus, along with an improved bicycle crank and transmission, a prototype of the bicycle with working components must be built to test the viability of the design functions.

Design Goals

• Portability

  For ease of shipping, bicycle must fit in a 26"x26"x10" container.

• Prototype

  By the end of the 2015-2016 Senior Design class, a working prototype is desired.

• Testing Rig

  Along with a prototype, a rig to test the difference in power generation between a classic bicycle and the RLT outfitted prototype for market viability.