Studebaker Commando

[ccobra]

Had an idea for a flexible chassis one night so I printed off two bodies and two different chassis. The one shown is the inline using 3mm screws and insert nuts with the outer mounts having slots for the flexing of the chassis. I couldn't wait so I had to put it on the track and see how it would do. Well it didn't do to well for the flag was to high and I kept de-slotting. I did manage a 8.03 lap though so in my opinion it is looking promising.

[JeremyC]

Is the concept that the chassis will twist or that the front wheels can travel?

[ccobra]

The concept allows the chassis to twist, roll side to side and rock up and down front to rear. The side pods are stationary to the chassis allowing the chassis to move about +/-0.100. The other chassis I'm working on mounts on three body post with pivots. The rear mount is like a hinge where the from is a floating hinge. Hopefully I'll get it to a point where I can get pictures of it posted.

[chappyman66]

This is what I love about 3D printing....new cool stuff. Nice work!

[ccobra]

That's what I really like about the 3d printers. These tools are really challenging to figure out how they print so that you can turn your wild ideas into something that works. I've been thinking that once I finally decide to retire, maybe I'll rent a spot downtown, setup a track, computer, and 3d printer and work with some High School kids who want to explore engineering more. That will be a ways off yet for I've got so many other things to do first.

[JeremyC]

Sweet! Any chance you share the files?

[ccobra]

I got the Studebaker Commander from https://3dexport.com/3d-print-models...diy/automotive. If I can get the chassis to work to my liking I'll make the necessary changes to the chassis' and post.

[Kevan]

Commander not commando

[ccobra]

Commander not commando

I know but I did some subtle modifications so I changed a couple of letters. You'll also notice that it didn't print very well so it took a lot of work with the USB finishing tool.

[dge467]

Cool!

[ccobra]

The second version was of the sidewinder variety with the same gear ratio using slotit gears and piranha 21k motor. This one weighs less at 94g where the inline version weighed in at 104g. Not its time to get out the mud and make a buck for the windows to go into both cars, add an interior, and for grins and giggles I think I'll add lights to these two beasts. Also the second one needs some paint.