This documents the 3rd generation differential for the 2012 RISD Moonbuggy vehicle. One of the major challenges of producing a three wheeled vehicle is the powertrain to the front two wheels. Independently splitting the power produced between the two wheels in a lightweight, and efficient manor is critical to propelling the moon buggy vehicle in the time trial.
The first generation powertrain in 2010 worked, but was clunky and non centric causing friction meaning efficiency loss.
The second generation differential in 2011 tackled the task of unifying the assembly into a singular module to keep components centric and non binding. This design was a 46% size reduction but the weight loss was marginal and its high tolerance assembly was difficult to maintain. Its complex and delicate assembly caused self degradation over general wear and tear. It relied on adhesives and welds to assemble; costly, difficult to maintain and reproduce.
The third generation I designed utilizes no adhesives or welds and is completely modular. It is a 30% size reduction from the second generation differential and is approximately 25% lighter. Stronger and can operate in a wider range of conditions and can be assembled and disassembled quickly with just an allen wrench. No exotic components required to function.
