Design of an Electrically Powered Rickshaw, for Use in India

Cochrane, Colin; Muneer, Tariq; Fraser, Bashabi

Abstract

The main aim of this article is to present research findings related to the design of an electric rickshaw for use in Kolkata, India, identifying weaknesses in the current cycle rickshaw, developing a design solution to address problems found, and exploring the possibility of utilising solar power. Through research and testing it was found there were many design issues, concerns with health and safety, comfort, and ergonomics. All problems found were addressed by implementing design upgrades. The testing of the current cycle rickshaw identified the power and energy required to implement an electric drive system, where a 500 W 24 V DC motor and a battery capacity of 220 ampere hours was used in conjunction with a pedal assist system to provide a range of up to 52 km. A conceptual prototype was developed to prove the successful application of a pedal assist system, which was established as a viable option for design. The design has been critically evaluated and the relevant issues discussed.

Citation

Cochrane, C., Muneer, T., & Fraser, B. (2019). Design of an Electrically Powered Rickshaw, for Use in India. Energies, 12(17), 3346. https://doi.org/10.3390/en12173346

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 29, 2019
• Online Publication Date: Aug 30, 2019
• Publication Date: Aug 30, 2019
• Deposit Date: Sep 4, 2019
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 4, 2019
• Journal: Energies
• Publisher: MDPI
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 12
• Issue: 17
• Pages: 3346
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/en12173346
• Keywords: General Computer Science
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2099423