LifeTrac: Difference between revisions
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| '''[[LifeTrac_II| LifeTrac II]]''' <br> ''Prototype 1'' | | '''[[LifeTrac_II| LifeTrac II]]''' <br> ''Prototype 1'' | ||
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| '''[[LifeTrac III| LifeTrac III]]''' <br> '' | | '''[[LifeTrac III| LifeTrac III]]''' <br> ''Documentation'' | ||
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| '''[[LifeTrac IV| LifeTrac IV]]''' <br> ''Retrofit'' | | '''[[LifeTrac IV| LifeTrac IV]]''' <br> ''Retrofit'' |
Revision as of 17:43, 20 January 2012
LifeTrac | ||
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Home | Research & Development | Bill of Materials | Manufacturing Instructions | User's Manual | User Reviews | ![]() |
Overview
(overview last updated 11.29.11)
LifeTrac is a low-cost, multipurpose open source tractor. It serves as a workhorse backbone for many of GVCS technologies. Prototype III stage has been completed, and field testing determined the need for Prototype IV prior to product release.
Featuring a modular design and detachable PowerCube units, it has the ability to rapidly switch between a variety of GVCS machines via the QA Plate. The machine is overbuilt with a focus on lifetime design and ease of repair.
Four hydraulic motors provide skid steer power to the wheels, and a chain tread system enables navigation of extreme terrain.
LifeTrac IV - Head over here if you would like to help out with the LifeTrac IV design
Important Note: No structural engineering analysis has been performed on the LifeTrac. If you choose to replicate this product you are doing so at your own risk and with this understanding. We will be performing analysis soon and will post those results as we get them.
Product Evolution
Use the Product Evolution tree below to learn about the different versions of the LifeTrac and how far they got in product development (shown in italics). Follow the arrows to see where branching occurs. The dashed outlined represents the version most up to date.
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Articulated Design |
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LifeTrac I Prototype 1 | |||||
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Skid Steer Design |
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LifeTrac II Prototype 1 |
LifeTrac III Documentation |
LifeTrac IV Retrofit | |||
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LifeCat 1.0 R&D |
Product Ecology
From | Uses | Creates | Enables |
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Components |
Status
Currently the Lifetrac is on its second prototype with half a dozen units at Factor e Farm. The machines are currently being prepared for field testing as a part of the Factor e Farm Infrastructure Buildout 2011.
The next prototype aims to integrate as aspects of Digital Fabrication for automated production. Rebar construction is also under consideration.
Videos
Safety Concerns
Mike has written an email to OSE Europe mailing list describing some concerns about LifeTrac safety of use, he points out possible issues with: Frame, Steering, Breaks and Roll-Over Protection.
See also