DIY Electric Skateboard Project
The Goal:
The goal for this project was to build an electric skateboard that performs on par or better than the Boosted Mini X at a fraction of the price by utilizing the used market and self-designed 3D printed parts.
The Why:
I normally find myself going to UCI’s Science Library to study rather than my own community college’s library because of the better atmosphere and environment to learn. However, the issue I came across was the time spent walking around campus took 10-15 minutes just to get to the library. Because of this walk, I would lose precious study time to transportation time on top of my time driving to UCI. Not only that but, I would be physically tired and burning up on hot days once I reached the library. So I searched for a portable way to efficiently get around the campus.
Parts
Motor/Truck Assembly:
The trucks and motor assembly were all bought off the used market to save cost. The whole assembly cost about $120 which included 90mm wheels, bearings, two 10-inch trucks, dual 5055 190V brushless DC motors, ABEC wheel hubs, belts, and built-in motor mounts. This saved me about $250 compared to buying all these parts separately.
Battery:
I was able to find a 10S5P 36V Lithium Ion battery for $200, the original retail price of a battery like this would run me about $400+ so being able to find a used one like this was perfect for my build. The 10S (10 series cells) output would give me enough voltage to easily reach the speeds that the Boosted Mini X hits. While the 5P (5 parallel cells) would allow me to have a decently long range.
ESC (Electric Skateboard Controller):
I chose a dual belt motor ESC, from mboards.com which was meant for 10s voltage applications. This ESC comes with a remote controller and a computing module that connects to power and the motors. There also was a small LED battery indicator that I integrated into my enclosure design. I chose this controller because of its features such as speed levels and regenerative braking, and the security of knowing that it is meant for dual belt motor set-ups with a 10S battery.
Skateboard/Cruiser Deck:
I chose a Vision Reissue Cruiser Deck for my base. I did not have a skateboard deck beforehand so I could just convert a regular skateboard into an electric one. I chose this deck because it has the same dimensions, 29” length with a 9-10” width, as the Mini X with the inclusion of a high kick tail to allow easier shortcut movements. I also favored the graphic design on the back.
3D Printed Enclosure:
Using SOLIDWORKS I used the dimensions of the ESC (105mm x 85mm x 25mm) and battery (140mm x 172mm x 51mm) to 3D model an enclosure for the components. I left space on each side to include an area for the wires from the motors to run through. I also added holes on the front to put the charging hole, LED indicator, and power button. Utilizing the rubber gasket seals as well included on the motor wires I added small holes on the back to have them pass through and create a seal.
CAD Files below:
