First Model

So the Project Gaia Cart team and I built a model for the Side Kick as it comes pictured.

We built our model 1/12 scale using straws and duct tape. Is there anything duct tape cannot do?

I know its not the most accurate of ways to build this, but they dont make PVC at 1/12 scale :).

We started out as you can see in the picture with everyone excited. We had a false start though as I figured the authors diagrams were to scale and cut the straws from the lengths on the page. Not so much. I really clued into this when I noticed that a 13 inch piece and a 36 inch piece were the same size on the diagram. So we threw away our first pieces and started again, measuring everything precisely and then making it a bit imprecise with the duct tape. Mechanics N and M got bored at this point and went to do some unrelated research (I believe it was barbie.com). Mechanic K and I plodded along.


The result was not bad. It looks like more duct tape than straws....and it probably is....but it gives me a rough idea of its appearance and strength.

(The wheels are made out of a waffle box.....thats why one looks like a waffle)

I like the front end and I think I will leave that mostly alone. Its strength side to side and front to back are actaully alot better than I thought. I thought it would need more traingles in the structure to make it a bit firmer.....but maybe not. I may still add some as I love triangles.

The back end I dont like so much. It just looks a bit unfinished. I think I may extend the plan 6 - 12 inches and rework the back end. I need to add some traingles in the front end and under the seat for support.

The model has alot of give 'twist wise', but I think this is good and on purpose. As every road and surface is not perfectly flat, this thing needs a bit of give.

The next steps are to make a new model of our own design, to perhaps better the plan. Then I need to find a supplier of PVC in town...just so I can get some sample fittings to use for my measurements.

- Mechanic B, Gaia Cart Project



I was so excited for the project because it made me feel happy. It was special because it would be better for the earth. We used straws and tape and cardboard to make the model. It was fun to build. I helped my dad build it and cut out the tires myself.

- Mechanic K, Gaia Cart Project


Little car is good. I like using tape.

- Mechanic N, Gaia Cart Project


I think the little car is nice and cute. We built it with straws and tape. We build a small one to see what the big one is like. I tried to drive it on the table and the wheels bent.

- Mechanic M, Gaia Cart Project