Engagement with Tectrax commenced when they sought our expertise at 3DM Design to assist in the mechanical components of their envisioned drive system for amphibious boats. Specifically, our focus was on the retractable legs responsible for raising and lowering the wheels. The initial instructions were explicit, specifying a preference for a front arm design featuring vertical motion. Tectrax had a preliminary concept outlining this motion. However, upon our initial investigation at 3DM Design, we determined that the action of the link arms as per the given concept would not generate sufficient vertical movement to meet the boat's required elevation adjustments.

Consequently, 3DM Design proposed an alternative concept, presenting a double scissor arm linkage capable of raising and lowering the boat to the desired height while maintaining a compact profile when retracted. This solution involved the integration of dual hydraulic rams to drive a hinged leg system, ensuring that the wheel's movement remained vertical. For the rear wheel legs, we suggested a single leg driven by a dedicated hydraulic cylinder.

Essential Requirements:

1. Creation of CAD Drawings for the existing Hub motor and gearbox.

2. Validation of gear ratios and power outputs.

3. Detailed design of the housing/casing for the motor and gearbox.

4. Design of a retractable front legs system and its deployment mechanism.

5. Implementation of a hydraulic steering system.

6. Design of retractable and deployable rear legs.

7. Seamless integration of hydraulics, electrics, and control systems.

Achieved Milestone:

Tectrax now possesses a fully functional amphibious system, ready to be seamlessly integrated into OEM vessels, marking a significant success for our collaboration.