Week 3 Progress

Our goals for this week were to: finalize the base sketches, finish base construction (welding), test the base for weight and mounting, and finalize list of users to test.

We were able to complete the base sketches and designs in CAD, finish the base construction, and do some rudimentary tests for mounting. We each have our own sedan that is in the target market so we can test it for fit. We have a list of users we hope to conduct eventual tests with, and we will continue to refine it.

We had a good team meeting where we were able to discuss the feedback we got in class with regards to the project. We debated going with an even more lightweight design in order to beat out the #1 lightest rooftop tent but we opted for something with a bit more rigidity. Our design also does not prevent users from opening their rear door (which would have had to be a sacrifice with a different design).

With regards to welding, Landis is the expert so he has been leading the way. A key lesson with welding is definitely keeping everything level and square. When dealing with a large project like ours, this is paramount to the eventual success of the rooftop tent.

Overall CAD design

CAD design for welding

Laying out components (fireman ladder in foreground)

Keeping things square and level

Side view with fireman's ladder and base

Weight test on the fireman ladder extension