The Technologies behind Inner Tuba.
"...The combination of Arts and Science also appeals, and we feel that the project would be an ideal
event to incorporate into International Science Week as it has the scope to
cover music, design, technology, travel and the environment in a way that is
educational, digestible and attractive to all ages." Philip Magennis,
Arts and Heritage Officer, The Clotworthy Arts Centre, Antrim, Northern Ireland.
The technological features of Inner Tuba are many and varied -
for instance the towing vehicle,
the new trailer, the renewable
energy generating systems which are set to power multi media
computer hardware and road lighting systems... The ongoing
challenge of putting it all together, "Tour ready" is described here.
The recumbent tricycle.
Experience gained from the East Midlands tour, along with experiments with different human
powered vehicles since, has led me to conclude that a recumbent tricycle
is most appropriate to meet the special needs of Inner Tuba Touring.
becoming familiar with recumbents - they are fine vehicles alone - and
ideal for load lugging.
Their advantages over bicycles when towing heavy trailers are numerous - comfort, a stable
base of support and centre of gravity, and the opportunity to use very low gearing on hills.
The one pictured above was loaned to Inner Tuba for trials, by John Bradshaw, co - organiser
of the Lancaster Cyclefest, at which Inner Tuba performed in 2002. And moving right up to date...
July 2006. Sponsors Chris Parker and Neil Selwood of Inspired Cycle Engineering
check out the towing capabilities of the Trice Mini at their "HQ" in Falmouth, Cornwall.
The Mini has an overall width of 27.2 inches - the same as the trailer.
Its ideal for
getting through the narrowest doorways into small school rooms quickly and without fuss.
The trailer.
The Inner Tuba trailer was originally built by Bob Lewney back in 1988.
In the last couple of years it has seen many innovative modifications,
the results of which were proven during rigorous touring in Summers of 2005.
and 2006.
Before... the trailer
being put through its paces (or cow dung !)
during the Year of
the Artist tour back in 2000
And after - Rock
steady cornering at speed, September 2006
This exciting transformation is largely thanks to the invention and work
of Derek Carpenter, or Boclown.
He is professional Character Clown, and has many skills in engineering design,
fabrication, and bicycle technology. This is how it all came together:
A new chassis frame onto which the original trailer is now mounted
it has proved strong enough for rugged touring !
Left: 4 tennis balls - one on each corner - are sandwiched between
the trailer chassis and body in commercial vehicle radiator hose.
They provide superb
but simple full suspension.
The hitch bars can be removed - one for 20" wheels and one for 26".
The hitch point is at the axle. its fully articulating, very quick release
ball and socket
design is
found on the excellent Carry Freedom trailers.
As at November 2006, work is in progress to replace the original Trailer "Box"
with a custom container designed to match the new chassis and suspension systems. Inner Tuba is working with
Bob Lewney once more to create a low slung, aerodynamic and stylish aluminium replacement.
The renewable energy systems.
John Beardmore of T4 Sustainability Ltd tests
the solar panels and dynamo hubs.
Another innovative feature of Inner Tuba is its facility to generate and store its own
electricity supply on the move. Inner Tuba already owns a small array of portable
photovoltaic cells, or electricity generating solar panels, which are mounted to the
existing trailer. These work in conjunction with the trailer wheels' dynamo hubs to power
a 12 volt battery with sufficient power to run small low voltage appliances independent
of mains power.
With professional guidance from T4 Sustainability
Ltd, Inner Tuba is researching upgrades
to the solar panels, the type and capacity of batteries, and the design of a more compact and
efficient energy management and voltage regulation system. This way Inner Tuba's entire
road lighting, IT and mobile communications can be powered from the battery source.
The IT and mobile communications units.
The role of digital multi media is set to enhance both the artistic content and
archiving capabilities of Inner Tuba touring. Generous specialists Mattick Computers are advising on hardware which will combine lightweight
portability with compatability to a 12V DC power supply. Ideally suited is, of course, a laptop.
Digital photography will be used to record the journey
and performances. The images will be prepared and edited using photographic software
on the laptop.
Broadcast standard Podcasts of Inner Tuba
travels will be made on a quality MP3 recorder and professional microphone.
An audio diary will be kept, and recorded material will be edited using audio software
on the laptop.
The information will be output in various formats, all to be
produced by Inner Tuba, independent of mains power on the road. These include:
Updating the website using the mobile phone, and emailing "up to
the minute" press releases with images suitable for press publication.
Creating audio CD's and CD roms using the laptop CD writer,
and printing bespoke CD covers.
Inner Tuba aims to be able to arrive at a venue, photograph and record the performance
and some interviews, edit and prepare a bespoke audio CD, print a cover with photographs of
that venue, and present the venue with a copy of the CD as a lasting memory of the visit.
The information will then be included in "Podcasts" and diary pages of this website, for Inner Tuba
enthusiasts to follow. The hardware required for all this is cutting edge, and Inner Tuba
will benefit from access to this equipment some months before embarking on further tours, so
as to become very familiar with all its combined features and embrace its full potential.
Return to home page