3 Wheeler Body Paneling
Various options were considered for the paneling for the vehicle. The first option was to not use any paneling and leave the frame exposed. This idea was rejected due to the issues of wind on the driver and for aesthetic reasons. Obvious choices for paneling were sheet aluminum or steel. Steel could be welded on, or either could be riveted or stuck on. Before the decision had to be made, we were made aware that the college could acquire large quantities of toughened foam, the type that is normally used for manufacturing signs. We decided to use this, firstly because it was free, and secondly it is lightweight and waterproof. It was decided to have several flat panels as opposed to bending individual panels. Panel frames were welded together for the bonnet and rear for the panels to be mounted to. This way the panels could be removed easily. The pictures below show the bonnet and rear panel mounting frames.
The panels were not produced within the 6 week schedule. The joins will be sealed with a paneling sealant and then smoothed down to leave a good finish. Cellulose paint has been purchased, as this can be used in a compressed air spray gun. It has the added benefit over enamel paint that it dries within 30 minutes and therefore if a mistake is made, it can be rubbed down and reapplied very quickly.