Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Chassis Design and Material
I designed the chassis in Google Sketchup, and color coded components into groups of size. This will make it easier for me to cut the steel into correct lengths. Having all the pieces labeled will also speed up assembly. The design below is all 2" x 2" x .125" steel tubing. The total material used in this phase of contruction is 101.916' long. At 3.06 lbs/ft the chassis will weigh 311.82 lbs. This drawing does not include the gussets, which I will estimate later. Should be another 16 ft or so but that will also include some 1" x 1" tubing. The final chassis weight will also include the axle, wheels, lights, wiring, coupler and bumper. I will update again tomorrow when I receive the mat'l.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Taking the Plunge!
So after a lot of time thinking about it, I'm finally mentally ready for this. Building a camper from scratch that is going to be hauled around at 60mph and also must be capable of withstanding high winds and inclement weather is serious business. Not much room for error. It's been a goal of mine for some time now and after months of research I feel I am ready to start.
The first phase is planning. Figuring out exactly what I want and what it's gonna take to get there. Material lists, supplier lists, spreadsheets, acquiring tools, building CAD models and budgeting. Without proper planning you don't give yourself a realistic chance at attaining your goal right out of the gate.
Right now I am spending some time learning Google Sketchup (a 3D CAD modeling program). I feel having 3D models at my disposal will make material estimation a cinch, not to mention the models will be a good way to digitally communicate my ideas.
The second phase will be fabricating a chassis that pulls well and supports my target load. To be able to transition into this phase quicker, I preordered the majority of the steel I will need and am purchasing a new welder this week.
That's enough for me to chew on for now, so check back soon for updates on the 1st two phases.
The first phase is planning. Figuring out exactly what I want and what it's gonna take to get there. Material lists, supplier lists, spreadsheets, acquiring tools, building CAD models and budgeting. Without proper planning you don't give yourself a realistic chance at attaining your goal right out of the gate.
Right now I am spending some time learning Google Sketchup (a 3D CAD modeling program). I feel having 3D models at my disposal will make material estimation a cinch, not to mention the models will be a good way to digitally communicate my ideas.
The second phase will be fabricating a chassis that pulls well and supports my target load. To be able to transition into this phase quicker, I preordered the majority of the steel I will need and am purchasing a new welder this week.
That's enough for me to chew on for now, so check back soon for updates on the 1st two phases.
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| A Sketchup model found in Google's 3d library. |
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