LifeTrac

Brief Summary
LifeTrac is an open source tractor that can be highly relevant to the developing world. LifeTrac's unique features include hypermodularity, interchangeability of parts and design for disassembly making LifeTrac suitable for agricultural and construction use. LifeTrac is currently in the development stages and it requires further scientific input; this project seeks to find innovative ways to integrate technology in order to maximize LifeTrac's interchangeability between devices. LifeTrac can be thought of as a real-life lego set for industrial, workshop, agricultural and other utilities equipment.

LifeTrac Overview
LifeTrac is an open source tractor that can be highly relevant to third world development. It is an articulated tractor that steers by bending in the middle. It also has a flexible coupling between the front and back so that the wheels stay on the ground at all times. It has a number of features that sets it apart from skid loaders and make these vehicles suitable for agriculture. The main features for agriculture are a 3-point hitch, power takeoff, and high-flow hydraulic takeoff. These features make the LifeTrac capable of using any agricultural implements. LifeTrac is also designed with a winch, and is designed to be equipped with well-drilling equipment with 10-foot drilling pipe sections. As such, the design is one of highest utility and versatility, combining the power of skid loaders with agricultural tractors and construction tractors. The unique feature is the modularity and design for disassembly. Priority one is lifetime design, where any problem can be troubleshooted and fixed readily. No transmission is required as it is built-in to the hydraulic drive.

Nature of Opportunity
A solution to this problem can aid any area of the world that engages in farming or uses mechanized technology. Organic farmers, sustainable builders and third world aid organizations can be primarily adaptors of the solution and benefit from a multipurpose tractor for agriculture, construction or utility duties.

Relevant Scientific Participation
Science for Humanity currently requires volunteers with expertise in computer science, ecology, environment science, engineering, and materials to tackle this problem. Join the LifeTrac project if you would like to get involved.

Relevant Documents and Website
LifeTrac Project Definition Form

Please visit the following website to learn more about LifeTrac and Open Source Ecology: http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=LifeTrac