Novel Stabilization Method for Motorcycle-Based Tractor
As part of the capstone class Global Engineering, my team was tasked with helping solve an important global issue: 80% of Indian farmers still rely on bullocks and other live animals to perform farming operations. Our sponsor’s solution is Bullkey, a modified motorcycle capable of combining the all-terrain capabilities of bullocks with the efficiency of a modern tractor.
Personal contributions: meeting with stakeholders in US and India, ideation, mock-up construction (basic power tools), design analysis using SOLIDWORKS Finite Element Analysis, final deliverable construction (CNC mill, TIG welding), and presenting research to stakeholders.
Initial prototype for the Bullkey tractor as designed by our sponsor.
Defining problem
Our sponsor company had for some time been developing a motorcycle capable of performing farming operations. While their solution was capable of farming, it suffered from instability, poor maneuverability, and poor ergonomics.
Our goal was to redesign the tool attachment and stabilization methods of the vehicle.
conceptual ideation
Our team immediately realized that moving the tool location to be in-line with the motorcycle wheels would allow more precise farming, , better handling, a more “aspirational” design aesthetic (specifically requested by our sponsor), and a better vehicle classification under Indian laws (something of extreme importance).
We developed quick mock-ups of several methods of stabilizing a motorcycle and identified a “balance board” as the best solution.
The specifications and concepts behind the balance board’s effectiveness are being kept secret as our sponsor develops our product into a marketable device.
Concept for a double-outrigger stabilization method. We found the outriggers unwieldy and difficult to steer as they are not visible from a rider’s perspective.
An iteration of our balance board concept, as shown by the small platform underneath the rider’s feet. This board provides a large amount of stability!
Iterative solutions
We developed several iterations of balance board designs improving ergonomics, maneuverability, and ability to navigate rough terrain. Overall, our balance board was able to provide far more stability and user-control to the Bullkey at a far lower cost than our sponsor’s initial design.
Further applications of this product could lead to far more stable motorcycles and dirt bikes during normal driving applications.