Smitty constructed this prototype of our spherical deployable structure. It is an assembly of spherical rhombus linkages that expands to form a semi-circular structure.

Here are two videos of our first attempt to build prototypes for some of our six-bar linkage design concepts. These models were built by Steve and Justin with guidance from Smitty.

This is the six-bar linkage that guides a bottom drawer to a position that is level with the top drawer. The links were cut from aluminum and are wobbly.

This six-bar linkage deploys a television display from a horizontal position in the ceiling to a vertical position for viewing. The links are welded steel tube, and the system moves more smoothly.

Mathias Kastens maintains a site that closely tracks student formula teams, design activities and competition details around the world. Access it at the link:
http://www.fstotal.com

Here is a link to a facebook album showing the racecars and teams at the 2009 Formula SAE California intercollegiate engineering racecar competition that occurred June 17-21, 2009 at the Auto Club Raceway, Fontana CA.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=89098&id=92647534369