Partner Search
The
first prototype Xray is currently under construction, but I am actively
seeking funding, and partners to team with, specifically power-train
suppliers and experts. Many of the concepts disclosed within this site are Patent Pending with the USPTO.
Marketing / Manufacturing
This concept was designed with production in mind. Although the UV and scratched protected polycarbonate materials used in this design such as Makrolon® and Daqcron® are relatively higher cost than galvanealed steel, these processes are generally inexpensive – having no heavy tooling, such as metal stamping dies or molds. The investment costs are almost nothing as compared to traditional vehicle manufacturing. The relatively higher cost of the shell material is offset by the significantly reduced investment required–since this design would not require the multitude of large dies or molds required by all other vehicles currently on the market.
The processes involved in making the vehicle are simple; no curved elements are used in the design, only straight tube sections, which are cut and joined using some combination of welding, structural epoxy, and metal fasteners. The body-panels are secured to the frame with aircraft grade mechanical fasteners, rivets, and in some instances with structural adhesive, and are constructed by cutting out the two-dimensional patterns from flat sheet-stock. A bending brake is used to add any bends, as necessary. The suspension and steering elements are on par with conventional motorcycle components, and the carbon-fiber floor is a two-part lay-up. The motor and hardware such as lights and seats are black-box components, which are added in the final assembly. Ordering the frame as pre-fabricated sub-assemblies significantly simplifies the assembly of the vehicle, allowing existing frame builders who specialize in this technology, to optimize the quality and cost.
All this simplicity leads to a much-accelerated time to market.
Marketed toward the green and safety minded consumers. Its architecture is adaptable, easily modified to fit small, medium, large, and extra large body sizes--much like a bike frame with variable length frame elements. The design as shown is designed to comfortably accommodate a 6’6 driver, but larger versions could be constructed, and for smaller customers, smaller versions can be constructed which will have reduced weight and improved aerodynamics.
Team oriented assembly
Due to its simplicity and lighter weight, it also has very modest manufacturing facility requirements. As opposed for assembly-line worker-drones, the Xray would be constructed by single-cell teams, promoting teamwork and incentive, keeping the mind working and improving the quality of life and thus the overall product. This manufacturing method aslo provides for modularity in manufacturing—a relatively small facility is all that required. More space to accommodate additional teams can be added as necessary, to meet the market demand.
