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Art Car Shells
The design of the quadracycle lends itself to be dressed in all sorts of tops. So far, I've only made sunshades and banners, but I have plans for 'shells' that can fit in with a theme or whatever hits my fancy.
In 2006, while I was first building the quad, I had planned to construct a shell made out of corrugated plastic and other materials to make it look like a Back to the Future DeLorean (I'm a DeLorean owner), however, the bike itself took 2 months+ longer than expected to construct and my hoped-for help on the BTTF shell for 2006 did not materialize. So, the project had been put on hold. I'd still like to build it!
Why build a BTTF car for the desert? :
The theme for Burning Man 2006 was "Hope and Fear: The Future". What more could reflect that theme but a time machine? The quadracycle was to have sported a modified BTTF logo saying 'Burning Man to the Future' on the hood and have all the 'usual' DeLorean time machine accessories mounted onto an adult-sized pedal-car, I thought this would tie in well to the theme and would be a fun item to share with the BM community. It was NOT to have any flame effects or smoke - just lighting effects for at night.
I expected the entire machine to weigh a couple hundred pounds with the shell attached and batteries to run the EL wire and other lights, so, I know I'd need to include a small electric motor in order assist pedaling it around without overly taxing the riders. Because of the potential inclusion of the electric motor I was advised (by David V. of the DMV staff) to write a project proposal and apply for a 'mutant vehicle license', which I did in 2006, and I was approved!!
I'm sorry that time grew so short and I was unable to build the BTTF frame in time. But, at least I have the bike itself. Below are some of the concept drawings I sketched along the way. The internal frame was to be metal. It would have supported the ends and roof area allowing for plywood to be attached in areas to achieve the correct form.
Ken..
An early drawing of the BTTF shell concept. In operation the doors will always be open. The shell is not high enough to enclose the riders, but the doors can act as sunshades and close when the bike is not in use.
Some sketches on the details of the doors and other parts. I was working towards a shell that would be light, remove easily, and be as close as I can get to looking like a real DeLorean.
A drawing that combines a quadracycle drawing with a sketch of a DeLorean.
This was going to be a HUGE peddle car! It's actually 4 inches taller than the real car. The trick with the corrugated plastic will be to get the rounded areas right/close/at all.
More drawing to come as I have time to convert them.