The MINDS-i Electric Car Lab is a foundational system for exploring engineering and technology. It provides a complete, 1/10th scale electric car kit designed specifically for an educational environment. This lab is for students and educators in middle school, high school, and introductory college courses who need a practical method for applying theoretical concepts. The primary purpose of this kit is to deconstruct complex topics in mechanical and electrical systems into a hands-on, engaging project. By building the car from its core components, students gain a durable understanding of how individual parts work together to form a complex machine. The system’s open-source design and compatibility with standard hobby parts solves the problem of static, one-and-done kits, transforming a simple assembly project into a dynamic platform for continuous experimentation and design.
Using the Electric Car Lab cultivates a deep and practical skill set. Students learn the fundamentals of mechanical assembly by constructing the chassis, drivetrain, and steering systems. They gain direct experience with electrical engineering principles when wiring the motor, speed controller, battery, and radio receiver. The curriculum inherently teaches the physics of locomotion, including gear ratios, torque, and the function of a slip differential. Beyond the technical skills, the lab fosters critical thinking and systematic problem-solving as students diagnose and resolve challenges during the build. Its application is ideal for STEM labs, pre-engineering pathways, and physics classrooms. It serves as a tangible platform to test mathematical calculations and physics principles, turning abstract formulas into observable performance on the track.
| Specification | Detail |
| Product Dimensions | Not specified |
| Product Weight | Not specified |
| Applicable Education Levels | Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary |
| Included Hardware | |
| Structural Components | Decorative Panels, Construction Beams and Connectors |
| Drivetrain Components | Drive Lines, Spur & Pinion Gears, Motor Gearbox (1), Slip Differential (1) |
| Steering Components | Rack & Pinion (1), Steering Hub (1 pair) |
| Hubs and Wheels | Rear Hub (1 pair), 1/10th Scale Car Wheels & 2-5/8″ Diameter Tires (2 pair) |
| Tools | MINDS-i tool (1) |
| Included Electronics | |
| Servo and Control | Hitec® HS-485 Standard Servo (1), 40A Speed Controller (1) |
| Motor and Power | 23500 RPM DC Motor (1), 7.2 Volt 3000 mAh Ni-MH Rechargeable Battery (1), Battery Charger (1) |
| Radio System | 3 Channel Radio Transmitter |
| Diagnostic Tools | 7 Function Multimeter |
| Instructional Kits | Build A Motor kit (Pre-wound rotor and commutator, Curved magnets, hardware, wires) |
| Cabling | All necessary wires and cables |
| Design Philosophy | Open Source, Cross-Compatible with Hobby Standard Parts |
| Durability | Rugged components designed for classroom and outdoor use |
Aidex is proud to supply the MINDS-i Electric Car Lab (45 Hour) to learning institutions across the Midwest. We are committed to equipping educators and students in the region with the industry-leading tools they need to succeed.
The curriculum integrates principles of mechanical systems, electrical engineering, and physics. Students explore topics like gear ratios, differentials, steering mechanics, DC motor fundamentals, battery technology, and radio control systems through hands-on assembly and experimentation.
This lab is designed for middle school, high school, and introductory post-secondary programs. It is ideal for STEM labs, pre-engineering courses, physics classes, and after-school robotics clubs seeking a comprehensive and engaging project.
Yes, the MINDS-i system is designed for durability and reusability. The components are rugged enough for repeated assembly and disassembly, making it a cost-effective solution for classroom environments.
The open-source nature of the MINDS-i platform means it is compatible with most hobby-standard parts. This allows students and educators to modify, upgrade, and customize their electric car with different motors, wheels, and electronics, encouraging creative problem-solving and advanced design.
The “Build A Motor” kit is a supplementary tool that deconstructs the principles of a brushed DC motor. It allows students to see and assemble the core components, such as the rotor, commutator, and magnets, providing a fundamental understanding of how the car’s main motor operates.
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For more information or to contact Aidex, your Authorized Reseller, call 800-251-9935 or email info@aidex.com.
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