Design and Development of a Hybrid Human Powered Vehicle

Abstract

In a world that is running out of fossil fuels, harvesting human kinetic energy will provide an immediate solution to various mechanical challenges and fuel limitations. Also harvesting renewable source of energy can also be a tool behind solving the problem. This project deals with developing a Human Powered Hybrid Vehicle that uses both human and solar energy to drive the vehicle. The main objectives behind this project is to build a suitable mode of transportation which would utilize human energy in an efficient way to be used for driving the vehicle such as it runs faster than the present day human powered vehicles. For this purpose the human strength and weakness, the aerodynamic effect of the fairing, the effectiveness of the drive train etc. are taken into consideration. Structural and weight analysis were performed to select the right material for the frame so as to build a vehicle which would be very light weight but strong enough to sustain high loads exerted by the driver during a ride. Utmost priority has been given on the driver safety. With modern technology, steps were taken such that the vehicle doesn’t move unless and until the seatbelt and the helmet is worn, thus increasing driver safety.The main aim here is to fabricate a cost effective, easy to use and easy maintenance cum repairable vehicle with green personal mobility solution. It is a technically enhanced improvisation of a bicycle that also provides better comfort and greater speeds as well as more cargo carrying facility. This project is based on making a hybrid human powered vehicle.