Gravity car wheel radius selection

In summary, when choosing a wheel radius for a gravity powered car, there are a few factors to consider. Smaller wheels may provide higher top speed but may be less stable, while larger wheels may have higher acceleration but may also have more axle friction. The distance of the race may also play a role in the decision. Narrow and hard wheels may have less rolling resistance. A formula may be helpful in determining whether to use 20" or 26" wheels, especially if there is a set distance for the race.
  • #1
paulnist
2
0
As someone who regretfully has never studied physics, I am at a loss as to how to begin to evaluate the choice of wheel radius for a gravity powered car I am building for a local gravity race. How would one go about picking a wheel radius that would maximize the speed of the vehicle?
 
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  • #2
I imagine smaller wheels would be faster and yet less stable.
 
  • #3
Top speed will probably be highest with larger wheels, while acceleration would be higher with smaller wheels. A lot depends on the distance of the race I would guess.
 
  • #4
I suspect that there would be less axle friction with the bigger wheels because they won't be rotating as fast as small ones at the same forward speed. Mostly, keep them narrow and hard for less rolling resistance.
 
  • #5
update

Is there anyone that could provide a formula to help decide whether to use 20" vs 26" wheels? I have a set figure for the course distance.
 

FAQ: Gravity car wheel radius selection

What is a gravity car wheel radius?

A gravity car wheel radius refers to the distance from the center of the wheel to the outer edge of the wheel. It is an important factor to consider when designing a gravity car as it affects the car's speed, stability, and overall performance.

How do I determine the ideal wheel radius for my gravity car?

The ideal wheel radius for a gravity car depends on various factors such as the weight of the car, the track surface, and the desired speed. Generally, a larger wheel radius will allow for higher speeds but may sacrifice stability. It is important to test and adjust the wheel radius to find the optimal size for your specific car.

Can I use different wheel sizes for the front and back of my gravity car?

Yes, you can use different wheel sizes for the front and back of your gravity car. This may help with stability and steering. However, it is important to make sure that the total diameter of the wheels on each side is equal to prevent any imbalance.

What is the impact of wheel radius on the center of mass of a gravity car?

The wheel radius can affect the center of mass of a gravity car. A larger wheel radius will raise the center of mass, making the car more top-heavy and potentially less stable. It is important to consider the overall weight distribution of the car when selecting a wheel radius to maintain a low and stable center of mass.

Are there any standard guidelines for selecting a wheel radius for a gravity car?

There are no specific standard guidelines for selecting a wheel radius for a gravity car as it can vary depending on the design and goals of the car. However, it is recommended to start with a wheel radius that is approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the car's overall length and make adjustments from there based on testing and performance.

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