Components
The design components consist of a frame, a driving mechanism, two paddle wheels, and a floater. Instead of adopting the typical trisikad frame, Magno said they made use of the tartanilla format since it is more stable on water.
The size of the trisikad is also taken consideration, saying its width does not go beyond the size of a multicab or small jeepneys since trisikads most likely pass by narrower streets.
The floater, meanwhile, can be detached from the main frame to make the vehicle lighter when using it purely on land.
Tourism potential
“I think what helped us (win in this competition) was the commercial aspect of our project,†Galindo said.
He said the amphibious trisikad can also help boost Cebu’ tourism. Some resort owners and the local government of Dalaguete, according to the professor, have expressed interest in the project.
However, he said the team will make some improvements in their invention by sourcing out possible materials, which can either cut down the cost or improve the durability of the trisikad.
Patent pending
Galido and his former students are also on the lookout for investors that can mass produce the vehicle.
At present, the team is in the process of having their invention patented with the assistance of DOST- Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI).
Galido said the patenting process may take a year.
TAPI earlier said that the creative research entries of this year’s contest and exhibit will be screened for intellectual property (IP) protection, free of charge.
“From livelihood, to rescue, to tourism, this amphibious trisikad that we have holds a big potential,†Galido said.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on June 24, 2015.
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