(Model Car)
Large Platform Elevator
Raising and Lowering
with the Sun
The solar engine can be used for other things be-
sides driving a vehicle forward and backward. With
this model, we will be applying solar energy to the
raising and lowering of a platform. You will be using
the crane hook, cord, and spool (28). You first have
to attach the cord to the spool and hook (see the
pictures on p. 2). The spool will be mounted directly
on the engine shaft. When you are working with the
crane hook, cord, and spool, be sure that the cord
doesn’t get tangled on the axles when it is wound up.
Most important of all, be sure to stop the platform
at the right time when you are raising or lowering it.
The simplest way is to hold your hand over the solar
module to prevent the cells from getting enough light.
Components of the Model
This large model, which is quite easy to build, actually
consists of three parts. First, there is the tall support
structure, assembled out of long and short frames. It
is mounted securely on two base plates, which form
its foundation. On top of the framework, there is
the drive system. In addition to the engine, the solar
module is mounted here. You will need a special sup-
port frame for both.
The third element is the elevator cage. This is con-
structed from frames and rods, with two medium
gear wheels inserted into the front for decoration.
The cage is suspended directly from the crane hook.
In order for the load to sit securely in the cage, it is
recommended that you cut out a piece of cardboard
to fit on the bottom of the cage. Any sturdy cardboard
will do, but colored cardboard looks particularly nice.
If you like, you can also build a small car that you can
move up and down with the model. Of course, you
can also raise and lower other objects — e.g., toy
cars, toy figures, or building blocks. Try to figure out
how much weight your platform lift can handle.
The large platform lift consists of a support framework, lift system, and
elevator cage.
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