Cardboard Lamborghini
 

I have a 1/2 scale cardboard Lamborghini that I want to make remote controlled. Except, I have absolutely no idea how to start.

I know how to construct what I need, I just do not understand what I need to build with.

My main problem is finding a radio control system along with the best ideas for motors, etc.

do you have some basic specs such as weight, build material (besides cardboard), and individual driveline components (axles, wheels, etc)

as well as how much you want to spend, and where you want to drive.

This could be awesome, I'm in to help :)

The Lamborghini is in the final stages of being built. I will have dimension shortly, I just haven't taken any measurements at all.

I can say it is quite sturdy and light enough to be lifted with one arm, no problem.
roughly 5 feet by 2.5 feet and 1.5 tall.
The only material used is cardboard (and hot glue). It is a paper-fold model blown up to 1/2 scale.

I am using this model, I printed out templates and traced them onto single-sheet cardboard.
It is also giving me difficulties posting urls but if you search
"Lamborghini aventador papercraft visual spicer"
you can see what I am working with.
You can't buy the 1/2 scale model so i decided to make my own.

I have absolutely no interior components, its just cardboard.

I am also limiting this to mainly indoor use. or paved surfaces. nothing off-road.

My price range is, well cheap, but I want to see my options.

Just took some size measurements and my guesses were way off.
The actual size is 7 ft by 3 ft by 20 inches tall.

The weight is also heavier than I remembered and does weigh more. I would say closer to 20-30lbs.

Attached Images
 

The attached images are (obviously) the Lamborghini.

I should also state that I don't wish for the outside wheels to actually rotate. I want the car and cardboard wheels to just be a shell around the RC components.

If you keep it simple and gear it right 1:5 electronics I think will be fine as you have something lightweight relative the size.

I suggest you get the weight figured out with tires and everything else and contact Castle Creations for a suggested final drive ratio. I am sure they will offer some help in that part of things.

Really cool idea, but I you might have trouble keeping it inexpensive.

Well do you have any idea how much this might run me. I'm really not too worried but an idea would be nice.

I second the idea of getting in touch with an electronics manufacturer who could help you out. Castle Creations would be a good bet, possibly Tekin (both U.S. companies). Shoot them an e-mail and see what they recommend.

As for a radio and transmitter, you can get a very nice one for around $200, or you can get good ones for even less. I think the biggest expense here will be motor and speed controller, though a servo (or servos) will be a bit pricey as well.

Check out this 5th scale site: http://www.largescalerc.com/

In addition, there is a large scale subforum on RCTech, I"d actually start a project thread there: http://www.rctech.net/forum/oval-larger-scales-more-5/

My biggest issue is electronics so I do plan on contacting a company.

So if I simplify my issue down to i need to turn two drive wheels.

Is it possible to use the controller to connect with the receiver. The receiver then tells a speed controller how fast to turn an electric motor through a gearbox (if needed) to the axle the wheels are on.

Is that the basic concept or am I way off?

And also what is the difference between using servos or motors?

Basically right. A servo has a motor, and usually has a lot of gearing reduction. A motor is a direct drive electric component. They also do different actions. Servos are usually used for simple back and fourth movements, such as steering or controlling plane flight surfaces. Motor usually work to turn an axle or some sort, so a driveshaft, or propeller.

This won't be cheap. To get something that isn't just putting around you will probably spend a few hundred dollars on the low end. Probably more.

Alright, so I need something to turn the main steering axle (see picture). What would be better. Servo or motor.

Im guessing servo, and probably one geared slow for torque

I'd throw on one or two 1/5th scale servos and see if they do the job. Example of an inexpensive but strong one: http://www.savoxusa.com/Savox_SV0236...avsv0236mg.htm

550oz @ 7.4 volts, not bad.

I would maybe suggest building a chassis out of some light weight metal to give you a good foundation in mount suspension and drive train.