Environmental >> Elemental Transport

On this page: introduction | specifications | license | project files | demonstration videos

 

Introduction

 

THIS PROJECT IS CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT!

That's right ... I'm working on this design as I speak. As a result, project files and other release data are not yet available for download. Once the release date occurs, files and other data will be uploaded to this page. Please stay tuned for future updates.

 

Overview

The Elemental is a portable grocery cart designed to solve the problem of hauling moderate size loads while using mixed public transit. In most cities, the use of mobile hand carts is permitted as long as they remain under a certain size.

Elemental stands alone and apart from its competition. Combining the ruggedness and versatility of the popular Prometheus trailer, but in a smaller form factor compliant with the dimensions of the average grocery cart, this trailer can be detached from the user's bicycle and carried on board a mass transit vehicle, resolving this age-old problem.

Weather and terrain specifications are the same as those found on the Prometheus. If you can ride a bicycle through it, Elemental will happily follow in your wake. Making use of a universal hitch, the system can link to most adult bicycles in the 20 to 28 inch wheel range within minutes, and it doesn't require any permanent modification to the bicycle. Better yet, if you use a snap-on anchor, disconnecting the unit for bus travel becomes even easier.

While designed specifically for daytime users, the trailer can be equipped with 7.2 volt LED lighting for safe operation at night. This kit will be provided in the design as a single configuration bolt-on option, with two side lamps and one tail lamp.

The best part is, you can build it yourself ... and I'll show you how.

 

Specifications

 

Key Features

1. Cost effective construction — can be made for $150 or less (North America prices)
2. Hybrid aluminum/steel chassis for long service life
3. Uses standard 16 inch bicycle wheels with pneumatic tires
4. Capable of operating day and night in most global weather conditions
5. Armoured, lockable compartment protects your groceries and gear
6. Welding can be eliminated if you don't have easy access to a welder
7. Capable of handling heavy loads
8. Low-profile tow bar for better stability and strength

 

License

 

All users are required to understand and agree to the license before commencing work or downloading the files. These terms are pretty straightforward and will be clearly explained below. If you have any questions, contact me.

Get the license agreement (__KB, last revised on 2012 ___ __)

 

Project Files

 

All documents are provided in PDF format for easy cross-platform accessibility. If you don't have the free Adobe Reader on your system, get it here.

Complete ZIP Archive: download (__ MB, all project materials)

Promotional Content: Flyer 1 (__ MB, 8.5"x11") | Flyer 2 (__ MB, 8.5"x11") | JPEG of Flyer 1 (__ KB, 410x531px)

Specifications: complete blueprints (__ KB, _ pages) | materials list (__ KB, _ page) | substitutions list (__ KB, _ page)

 

Demonstration Videos

 

Project Introduction

[future addition]

 

Detailed Walkthrough

[future addition]

 

Turn Radius and Maneuverability

[future addition]