ERDEN Utility · Acquisition and baseline characterisation

ERDEN Utility — baseline characterization.

A sequential, primarily non-invasive inspection of the factory VEVOR platform. Its purpose is to replace vendor and provisional information with observed engineering evidence, so that drive-by-wire, steering, braking, power, compute, sensing, safety, and payload decisions can be argued from measurements rather than from a product listing.

Completion gate

Derived from the findings below. The gate states exactly which evidence is still missing before ERDEN Utility can advance to drive-by-wire architecture.

Phase 1 completion gate — baseline characterization

0/119 findings · Characterization not started

No finding has been inspected yet. 11 evidence areas are required before drive-by-wire architecture can be argued.

Gate: Characterization not started
Evidence areas met: 0/11
Findings satisfied: 0/119
Requires follow-up: 0
Recorded unknowns: 0
Vendor/observation discrepancies: 0

Required evidence11

Battery architecture0/6 evidence
Every compute, sensing, and actuation power budget starts from the pack. Without chemistry, voltage, capacity, protection, and a measured resting voltage, an auxiliary power architecture cannot be specified.
Missing: Battery chemistry · Nominal voltage · Capacity · Main fuse / breaker and wire gauge · Resting pack voltage · Charger specification
Motor identification0/4 evidence
Drive-by-wire cannot be scoped without knowing what the motor is, how it is driven, and how it is mounted.
Missing: Motor identification plate · Drive-wheel arrangement · Motor location · Motor connections
Motor-controller identification0/4 evidence
The controller decides whether the drive is commanded, intercepted, or replaced. That choice needs the controller's identity and its connector set.
Missing: Motor controller identification · Motor controller · Battery input to controller · Known vs unknown purpose
Accelerator / control interface0/4 evidence
The accelerator is the most likely interception point. Its type, wiring, and connector must be documented before any approach is proposed.
Missing: Accelerator / throttle · Conductor / pin counts · Wire colours · Connector locations
Direction-control interface0/2 evidence
Direction selection is a separate command path from speed, and its factory behaviour constrains what a commanded system is allowed to do.
Missing: Forward / reverse selector · Forward / reverse switching
Braking behaviour0/4 evidence
The stop path is the foundation of the safety architecture. A documented "unknown mechanism" is acceptable; an untested one is not.
Missing: Normal stopping behaviour · Behaviour on accelerator release · Behaviour when power is switched off · Braking mechanism conclusion
Steering architecture0/5 evidence
Actuation cannot be sized without the mechanism, travel, and geometry it must drive.
Missing: Which wheels steer · Steering mechanism · Steering travel · Approximate maximum wheel angle · Linkages and tie rods
Basic mechanical dimensions0/7 evidence
Mounting, clearance, payload, and localisation work all depend on a measured vehicle rather than a listing.
Missing: Overall length · Overall width · Wheelbase · Track width — front · Ground clearance · Tyre diameter · Cargo-deck dimensions
Factory safety behaviour0/5 evidence
Any later safety architecture either preserves or deliberately replaces the factory behaviour, and it cannot do either blind.
Missing: Power-on state · Power-off state · Accelerator release · Restart behaviour · Manual movement with power off
Platform identity0/4 evidence
Parts, manuals, and later procurement all hang off the exact model and serial of the machine in front of us.
Missing: Complete product / model designation · Manufacturer labelling · Serial / VIN-equivalent number · Photographic label set
Observed electrical architecture0/3 evidence
The single diagram is what the drive-by-wire phase is argued against, including its explicit unknowns.
Missing: Power path: battery → protection → controller → motor · Control inputs: accelerator, direction, brake, power/enable · Explicit UNKNOWN labelling

Evidence state distribution119

Not inspected: 119
Observed: 0
Measured: 0
Verified: 0
Unknown: 0
Requires follow-up: 0

Missing evidence48

Battery chemistryBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
Nominal voltageBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
CapacityBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
Main fuse / breaker and wire gaugeBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
Resting pack voltageBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
Charger specificationBattery architecture
Currently not inspected.
Motor identification plateMotor identification
Currently not inspected.
Drive-wheel arrangementMotor identification
Currently not inspected.
Motor locationMotor identification
Currently not inspected.
Motor connectionsMotor identification
Currently not inspected.
Motor controller identificationMotor-controller identification
Currently not inspected.
Motor controllerMotor-controller identification
Currently not inspected.
Battery input to controllerMotor-controller identification
Currently not inspected.
Known vs unknown purposeMotor-controller identification
Currently not inspected.
Accelerator / throttleAccelerator / control interface
Currently not inspected.
Conductor / pin countsAccelerator / control interface
Currently not inspected.
Wire coloursAccelerator / control interface
Currently not inspected.
Connector locationsAccelerator / control interface
Currently not inspected.
Forward / reverse selectorDirection-control interface
Currently not inspected.
Forward / reverse switchingDirection-control interface
Currently not inspected.
Normal stopping behaviourBraking behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Behaviour on accelerator releaseBraking behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Behaviour when power is switched offBraking behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Braking mechanism conclusionBraking behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Which wheels steerSteering architecture
Currently not inspected.
Steering mechanismSteering architecture
Currently not inspected.
Steering travelSteering architecture
Currently not inspected.
Approximate maximum wheel angleSteering architecture
Currently not inspected.
Linkages and tie rodsSteering architecture
Currently not inspected.
Overall lengthBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Overall widthBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
WheelbaseBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Track width — frontBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Ground clearanceBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Tyre diameterBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Cargo-deck dimensionsBasic mechanical dimensions
Currently not inspected.
Power-on stateFactory safety behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Power-off stateFactory safety behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Accelerator releaseFactory safety behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Restart behaviourFactory safety behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Manual movement with power offFactory safety behaviour
Currently not inspected.
Complete product / model designationPlatform identity
Currently not inspected.
Manufacturer labellingPlatform identity
Currently not inspected.
Serial / VIN-equivalent numberPlatform identity
Currently not inspected.
Photographic label setPlatform identity
Currently not inspected.
Power path: battery → protection → controller → motorObserved electrical architecture
Currently not inspected.
Control inputs: accelerator, direction, brake, power/enableObserved electrical architecture
Currently not inspected.
Explicit UNKNOWN labellingObserved electrical architecture
Currently not inspected.

Progress by section

Counts of findings whose recorded evidence is sufficient for their own kind — a photograph needs an observation, a dimension needs a measurement.

Characterization progress by section

12 sections

01 · Platform identification: 0/12
02 · Physical baseline: 0/16
03 · Drivetrain characterization: 0/9
04 · Motor controller and control path: 0/15
05 · Battery and power system: 0/13
06 · Steering characterization: 0/11
07 · Braking characterization: 0/8
08 · Factory safety behaviour: 0/10
09 · Electrical architecture mapping: 0/4
10 · Expansion and integration survey: 0/9
11 · Payload and implement interface survey: 0/8
12 · Evidence capture standard: 0/4

Procedure

Work the sections in order. Record the evidence source on every finding, and leave an unknown as an unknown.

ERDEN Utility — baseline characterization procedure

Rev A · phase u-p1

Scope of this pass6

Identify the machine from its own labelling, not from the listing it was bought from.
Measure the physical, drivetrain, steering, and structural baseline.
Document the complete visible control path and build a connector inventory.
Establish the electrical baseline at clearly identified terminals only.
Observe factory braking and safety behaviour under controlled low-speed conditions.
Survey physical space for future integration without selecting any hardware.

Allowed7

Visual inspection
Photography
External measurement
Reading labels
Removing normal service and access panels
Safe basic voltage measurement at clearly identified power terminals
Controlled low-speed behavioural observation with an unobstructed run-off

Prohibited9

Cutting or splicing wiring
Bypassing or defeating safety systems
Opening sealed batteries
Opening sealed motor controllers
Shorting connectors
Probing unidentified controller pins
Defeating braking
Uncontrolled powered tests
Working underneath a vehicle that is not on rated mechanical supports

Deferred to a later phase10

Steering actuator selection
Drive-control interception method
Replacement motor controller
Compute platform selection
Safety MCU or safety controller selection
LiDAR, camera, GNSS/RTK selection
E-stop hardware selection
Auxiliary battery and DC-DC architecture
Payload electrical connector definition
First autonomous implement

Evidence standard5

Every finding records where its value came from: vendor specification, physical label, direct measurement, visual observation, behavioural test, photograph, or unknown.
Vendor figures are never promoted to verified figures. A vendor value stays in place next to whatever was measured.
Where physical evidence contradicts vendor data, both are preserved and the contradiction is flagged rather than resolved by preference.
"Unknown" is a recorded engineering result, not a failure, and not the same as "not inspected".
A finding that needs a return visit, a tool that was not available, or a safer setup is marked as requiring follow-up.

Known limitations of the model3

The existing knowledge model has no per-operator, per-session completion record. This procedure represents an inspection state on the finding itself, which means it shows the current state of the evidence but not who recorded it or when. Adding an authored session history would require a persistence layer, which this phase deliberately does not introduce.
Findings are not graph nodes. They reference hardware, modules, and challenges by id so the existing relationship surfaces stay accurate, but they do not appear in the command palette, the relationship inspector, or backlinks.
Photographic evidence is described as a requirement rather than stored. Image records remain the platform gallery's responsibility.

Platform identification

Establish exactly which machine is on the floor. Every later specification is argued against these identifiers, so they are recorded from physical labels rather than from the listing the vehicle was bought from.

Vehicle powered off and key removed for the whole section.
Labels are read and photographed only. Nothing is removed, peeled, or cleaned with solvent.

Vehicle identity6

Walk the vehicle and locate every manufacturer, model, compliance, and serial label. Photograph each one square-on and legible before transcribing it.

Required photographs

Every manufacturer or model label, square-on and in focus
Serial number plate, with surrounding structure for location context
All safety and certification labels
Any date-of-manufacture or batch marking

Not inspectedIdentifierComplete product / model designation
Transcribe the full model designation exactly as printed, including suffixes.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
VEVOR four-wheel electric utility cart (listing designation)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierManufacturer labelling
Record the manufacturer name, importer, and any OEM marking that differs from the retail brand.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierSerial / VIN-equivalent number
Record the serial number and where on the vehicle it is fitted.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierManufacturing labels
Record date of manufacture, batch, factory codes, and revision markings if present.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierSafety / certification labels
Record every certification mark, rated-load label, warning label, and operating restriction printed on the vehicle.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedPhotographPhotographic label set
Confirm a legible photograph exists for every label recorded in this step.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Electrical component identity6

Identify each major electrical component by its own label rather than by the vehicle specification. Where an assembly is unlabelled, record it as unlabelled rather than inferring a part number.

Required photographs

Motor identification plate
Motor controller label and any printed part or firmware markings
Battery labels, including chemistry, voltage, and capacity text
Charger label, both input and output sides

Not inspectedIdentifierMotor identification plate
Transcribe motor manufacturer, model, rated power, rated voltage, rated current, and speed if printed.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
500 W brushless (vendor listing figure, unverified)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierMotor controller identification
Record controller manufacturer, model, printed ratings, and any connector legend silkscreened on the case.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierBattery labelling
Transcribe chemistry, nominal voltage, capacity, and any BMS or pack identifier printed on the pack.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierCharger labelling
Record charger input rating, output voltage, output current, connector type, and any charge-profile marking.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryOther identifiable electrical components
List every remaining labelled electrical item — switches, fuses, relays, converters, horn, lighting — with its marking.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationVendor vs verified specification split
For each vendor figure carried on the platform record, mark it verified, contradicted, or still unverified. Do not delete the vendor figure.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Physical baseline

Produce the dimensional record every mounting, payload, and clearance decision will be argued against. Measurements are taken on level ground with the tyres at their labelled pressure.

Vehicle on level ground, powered off, wheels chocked.
Underside photography requires the vehicle to be supported on rated stands. Never work under a vehicle held up by a jack alone.

Overall geometry10

Measure the vehicle as delivered, with the deck empty. Record each figure with its unit and the point it was taken from — a dimension without a datum is not reusable.

Required photographs

Front elevation
Rear elevation
Left side elevation
Right side elevation
Top-down view of the deck
Underside, only with the vehicle on rated stands

Not inspectedMeasurementOverall length
Measure extreme front to extreme rear.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementOverall width
Measure the widest point, noting whether it is the tyres or the deck.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementOverall height
Measure to the highest fixed point with the handle in its normal position.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementWheelbase
Measure front axle centreline to rear axle centreline.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementTrack width — front
Measure front tyre centreline to centreline.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementTrack width — rear
Measure rear tyre centreline to centreline.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementGround clearance
Measure to the lowest fixed point and record which component that is.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementTyre diameter
Measure loaded and unloaded rolling diameter; pneumatic tyres make this a measured quantity, not a constant.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
13 in (vendor listing figure)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementTyre width
Measure tread width and record the sidewall size marking.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierLabelled tyre pressure
Record the pressure printed on the sidewall and the pressure measured as delivered.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Deck, frame, and mass6

Record the load-carrying structure and, where practical, verify the vendor mass and payload figures physically.

Required photographs

Deck surface with a scale reference
Deck underside structure and cross members
Frame rails at the front, centre, and rear
Any rated-load or payload label

Not inspectedMeasurementCargo-deck dimensions
Measure usable deck length and width, inside any lip or rail.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
51.2 × 25.6 in (vendor listing figure)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementCargo-deck height
Measure deck surface height above ground, unloaded.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementChassis / frame dimensions
Record rail section size, rail spacing, and cross-member positions where they are useful for mounting.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementVehicle mass
Weigh the vehicle if a suitable scale is available; otherwise record the vendor figure as unverified.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
125.7 lb (vendor listing figure)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierPayload rating from physical labelling
Record the rated payload as printed on the vehicle, separately from the vendor listing figure.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
660 lb (vendor listing figure)
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedPhotographMechanical assembly detail photographs
Photograph each major mechanical assembly: front suspension or axle, rear axle, steering head, deck mounts, wheel hubs.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Drivetrain characterization

Establish how torque actually reaches the ground: which wheels drive, through what, and with what mechanical markings. Sealed assemblies stay sealed in this pass.

Vehicle powered off, key removed, wheels chocked.
Elevated inspection requires rated stands under the frame, never under the deck skin.

Drive layout9

Determine the drive arrangement by inspection. Record what is visible, and mark what cannot be established without disassembly as unknown.

Required photographs

Motor in situ, showing its mounting
Drive path from motor to wheel
Rear axle assembly
Wheel hub detail, both driven and undriven

Not inspectedObservationDrive-wheel arrangement
Establish which wheels are driven and whether drive is shared or independent.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMotor location
Record where the motor sits relative to the axle and frame.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementMotor mounting
Record mounting pattern, fastener sizes, and the structure it mounts to.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationGearbox / transmission
Record whether a reduction stage is present, its type, and any ratio marking.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementAxles
Record axle diameter, length, bearing arrangement, and retention method.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationChains / belts / gearing
Record presence, type, size marking, and tensioning arrangement.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationDifferential or independent drive
Establish whether a differential is fitted, or whether driven wheels are locked together, or driven independently.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationWheel hubs
Record hub type, bolt pattern, and whether hubs are handed.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryVisible drivetrain markings
List every model number, casting mark, and stamped code visible on drivetrain components.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not open, split, or disassemble sealed drivetrain components.
Do not remove wheels or hubs unless the vehicle is on rated stands and the task is planned.

Motor controller and control path

Document the complete visible path from operator input to propulsion, with a connector inventory detailed enough that a later drive-by-wire approach can be argued without re-opening the vehicle.

Key removed and, where a service disconnect exists, the pack isolated before handling connectors.
Photograph every connector in place, with its mating orientation visible, before anything is unplugged.

Control path inventory8

Trace and document each element of the control path in order, from the operator's hand to the motor.

Required photographs

Accelerator assembly, in situ
Forward/reverse selector
Key or main power switch
Controller, showing all connectors mated
Motor connections at the motor end

Not inspectedObservationAccelerator / throttle
Record type (thumb, twist, pedal), assembly markings, and cable entry.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationForward / reverse selector
Record switch type, positions, detents, and whether a neutral position exists.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMain power / key switch
Record switch type, number of poles visible, and what it appears to interrupt.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMotor controller
Record controller location, mounting, heatsinking, ingress rating if printed, and connector count.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMotor connections
Record phase and sensor connector types, conductor counts, and colours at the motor.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBrake-related controller connections
Record any connector that appears brake-related, including its label and destination.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBattery input to controller
Record conductor gauge, connector type, and any inline protection between pack and controller.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryOther low-voltage control wiring
List remaining low-voltage looms, their apparent function, and their endpoints.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Connector inventory7

Build a row per connector. Where the purpose of a conductor is not established by observation, record it as unknown — an inferred function is worse than an admitted gap.

Required photographs

Each connector mated, with a location reference
Each connector unmated, pin face visible, where it can be separated without force

Not inspectedInventoryConnector locations
Record where each connector sits and what it joins.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryConductor / pin counts
Record the number of conductors on each connector.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryWire colours
Record the colour of every conductor per connector, in pin order where pins are numbered.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementWire gauge
Record gauge where it is printed or reasonably identifiable; otherwise mark unknown.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryDestinations
Record where each connector's loom terminates.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryConnector labels
Transcribe any printed legend, silkscreen, or tag.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedInventoryKnown vs unknown purpose
Mark each conductor's purpose as established or unknown. Unknown is the default.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not cut, splice, strip, or re-terminate any wiring.
Do not probe unidentified controller pins in this pass.
Do not force a connector apart; if it resists, photograph it mated and record it as not separated.

Battery and power system

Establish what the pack actually is, how it is protected, and what voltages are available — the input to every later compute, sensing, and actuation power budget.

Treat the pack as live at all times. Remove metal jewellery and use insulated tools.
Measure only at clearly identified power terminals, with the meter set to DC volts before probing.
Charger unplugged from mains before any pack-side handling.

Pack and charger documentation9

Record the pack from its own labelling first. Vendor listing figures are entered as vendor values only.

Required photographs

Battery pack in its bay, showing mounting and restraint
All pack labelling
Charger label and connector
Main fuse or breaker, in situ

Not inspectedIdentifierBattery chemistry
Record chemistry as printed on the pack.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierNominal voltage
Record nominal pack voltage from the label.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierCapacity
Record capacity in Ah and Wh as printed.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBattery modules / cells
Record the number of visible modules or cells and how they are packaged.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationPack configuration
Record series/parallel configuration where it is identifiable without opening the pack.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierBMS information
Record BMS presence, model, and any printed protection thresholds.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedIdentifierCharger specification
Record charger input, output voltage and current, and connector type.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBattery mounting and accessibility
Record how the pack is retained, how it is removed, and whether it is serviceable in place.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMain fuse / breaker and wire gauge
Record the main protection device rating and the gauge of the main power conductors.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Basic voltage measurements4

Take resting and charging measurements at clearly identified terminals only. Record meter, range, and conditions with each reading.

Not inspectedElectrical readingResting pack voltage
Measure pack voltage at the main terminals with the vehicle off and undisturbed for at least an hour.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedElectrical readingCharger output voltage
Measure charger output open-circuit, then note the terminal voltage while charging.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedElectrical readingCharge termination voltage
Record the pack voltage at which the charger indicates completion.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedElectrical readingAccessible auxiliary rails
Measure any accessible auxiliary rail at an identified terminal, and record its apparent purpose.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not open a sealed battery pack.
Do not probe unknown signal wiring or controller pins.
Do not short terminals to test capacity, current capability, or protection behaviour.

Steering characterization

Record the steering system as built, with the geometry and effort figures a later actuation decision will need. No actuator is selected or fitted in this phase.

Vehicle stationary and powered off while steering is measured by hand.

Steering architecture11

Establish the mechanism, then measure it.

Required photographs

Steering at centre
Steering at full left lock
Steering at full right lock
Linkage, tie rods, and pivots from below or the side

Not inspectedObservationWhich wheels steer
Record the steered axle and whether both wheels steer.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationSteering mechanism
Record the mechanism type — handle and kingpin, Ackermann linkage, rack, or other.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementLinkages and tie rods
Record linkage members, joint types, and their lengths.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementPivot locations and spacing
Measure pivot positions relative to the axle centreline and to each other.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationSteering handle / control arrangement
Record the operator interface, its adjustment, and its mechanical connection to the linkage.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementSteering travel
Measure total travel at the handle and the corresponding wheel travel, lock to lock.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementApproximate maximum wheel angle
Measure the angle of each steered wheel at full lock, both directions.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMechanical stops
Record where travel is limited and by what.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationCaster behaviour
Record whether the steering self-centres when rolled, and how strongly.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementApproximate steering force
Measure the force needed at the handle to steer, stationary and rolling, unloaded.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationAvailable actuator mounting areas
Photograph and measure the space around the steering linkage that could later accept an actuator. Do not select one.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not select, order, fabricate, or fit a steering actuator during this phase.

Braking characterization

Determine what the manufacturer's "electronic braking" actually does, from observed behaviour rather than from marketing language. If the evidence does not settle the mechanism, the mechanism stays unknown.

All behavioural braking tests are performed at the lowest achievable speed, in clear open space, with an unobstructed run-off.
Incline tests only on a shallow, dry slope, with the vehicle unloaded and an operator clear of the downhill side.
Chocks within reach at all times.

Observed braking behaviour8

Observe and record each stopping condition separately. Note deceleration character, noise, and whether the vehicle holds after stopping.

Not inspectedObservationNormal stopping behaviour
Record how the vehicle stops from a low-speed run under normal operation.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBehaviour on accelerator release
Record whether release produces coasting, controlled deceleration, or an abrupt stop.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBehaviour when power is switched off
At walking pace in clear space, switch power off and record what the vehicle does.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBehaviour on an incline
On a shallow dry slope, record stopping and holding behaviour. Skip and record as not tested if conditions are not safe.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationParking-brake mechanism
Record whether a parking brake exists, its type, and how it is engaged.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationMechanical brake components
Record any drum, disc, band, or pad hardware visible on the vehicle.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBrake-related wiring visible
Record brake-related conductors and connectors visible without invasive testing.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBraking mechanism conclusion
Classify the stopping mechanism as regenerative, dynamic/electrical, mechanical, controller deceleration, a combination, or unknown — citing the observations above.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not infer the mechanism from the product listing.
Do not defeat, bypass, or disconnect braking to test it.
Do not perform stopping tests above the lowest controllable speed.

Factory safety behaviour

Record what the factory vehicle does in each state transition. This is the behaviour any later safety architecture must either preserve or deliberately replace.

Every test is performed in clear space, at the lowest achievable speed, with the deck empty.
An operator with a clear line to the key switch supervises every powered test.
Abort criteria agreed before starting: any unexpected motion ends the session.

Controlled observational tests10

Run each state transition once, record the outcome, and only repeat a test after the previous result is written down.

Not inspectedObservationPower-on state
Record the vehicle's state immediately after power-on, including any motion, indicator, or audible signal.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationPower-off state
Record the state after power-off, stationary.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationForward / reverse switching
With the vehicle stationary, and then at walking pace, record what happens when direction is changed.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationAccelerator release
Record the response to a full release from a low-speed run.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationRestart behaviour
Record whether the vehicle can restart with the accelerator already applied, or requires a neutral cycle.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationLoss of operator input
With the vehicle stationary and supported, record behaviour when the accelerator signal is removed by releasing the control — not by disconnecting it.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationBrake behaviour under test
Cross-record the braking observations from section 07 against these state transitions.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationManual movement with power off
Record whether the vehicle can be pushed with power off, and how much effort it takes.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationRoll resistance
Record roll resistance on level ground, powered and unpowered.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationIncline holding
On a shallow dry slope, record whether the stationary vehicle holds itself. Skip if conditions are not safe.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not short, disconnect, bypass, or defeat any safety circuit to produce a fault condition.
Do not perform uncontrolled powered tests, and never with a person on the deck.

Electrical architecture mapping

Assemble the observations into a single diagram of the factory electrical system, with every unestablished link labelled UNKNOWN rather than guessed.

Observed architecture diagram4

Draw the power path and the control inputs as separate groups. Annotate each edge with the evidence that establishes it; if there is none, label the edge UNKNOWN.

Not inspectedDiagramPower path: battery → protection → controller → motor
Draw the main power chain with conductor gauges and protection devices as observed.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedDiagramControl inputs: accelerator, direction, brake, power/enable
Draw each control input as a separate branch into the controller, with conductor counts and colours.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedDiagramExplicit UNKNOWN labelling
Mark every connection, signal, and voltage that observation did not establish as UNKNOWN. Do not fabricate protocols or levels.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationDiagram vs vendor description
Note where the observed architecture differs from the vendor description, preserving both.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not record a signal protocol, voltage, or logic level that was not measured or printed on a label.

Expansion and integration survey

A physical-space survey of where future equipment could go. No hardware is selected, specified, or ordered from this section.

Candidate locations9

For each candidate location, photograph it, measure the usable volume, and record its environment.

Required photographs

Each candidate location with a scale reference
Cable routing paths along the frame

Not inspectedMeasurementCompute enclosure location candidates
Measure usable volume, mounting surfaces, and access for a future enclosure.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationSafety controller location candidates
Identify locations suitable for a safety controller near the power path.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationE-stop mounting candidates
Identify reachable, visible mounting points for an emergency stop from both operator positions.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationSensor, camera, and LiDAR mounting candidates
Identify mounting positions with useful sightlines and record their obstructions.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationAntenna and GNSS mounting candidates
Identify locations with sky view and separation from the power path.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationAuxiliary power conversion location
Identify a location for future DC-DC conversion, with thermal room and short pack runs.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationCable-routing opportunities
Record existing routes, tie points, and pass-throughs along the frame.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationPayload controller location
Identify space under or beside the deck for a future payload controller.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationEnvironmental assessment per location
For each candidate, record weather exposure, vibration source proximity, heat, moving parts, collision exposure, and serviceability.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not select compute, sensing, safety, or power hardware from this survey.

Payload and implement interface survey

Gather the structural evidence a future standardised implement interface will be designed against. The interface itself is not designed in this phase.

Attachment survey8

Record every existing structural attachment opportunity with its position, size, and the structure behind it.

Required photographs

Deck fastener pattern
Frame rails with attachment points
Front and rear attachment areas
Under-deck space

Not inspectedMeasurementExisting mounting holes
Record hole positions, diameters, and thread where present.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementFrame rails
Record rail section, spacing, and accessible length.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationDeck fasteners
Record fastener type, size, count, and whether the deck is removable.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementStructural attachment points
Record load-bearing points suitable for future attachment and what they tie into.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationFront and rear attachment opportunities
Record usable structure at each end of the vehicle.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationTowing points
Record any towing or tie-down provision and its rating if labelled.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementAvailable under-deck space
Measure the usable volume under the deck, noting intrusions.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedMeasurementMounting geometry summary
Produce a dimensioned sketch of the attachment geometry, referenced to a single datum.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

Do not design or specify the standardised implement interface during this phase.

Evidence capture standard

The rule that makes the rest of the procedure trustworthy: every finding carries the source of its value, and vendor data is never promoted to verified data by omission.

Recording rules4

Apply these rules to every finding above as it is completed. They are part of the procedure, not commentary on it.

Not inspectedObservationSource recorded on every finding
Confirm each completed finding carries one of: vendor specification, physical label, direct measurement, visual observation, behavioural test, photograph, or unknown.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationNo silent promotion of vendor data
Confirm no vendor figure has been marked measured or verified without a corresponding physical observation.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedObservationDiscrepancies preserved
Where physical evidence contradicts vendor data, confirm both values are retained and the contradiction is flagged.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded
Not inspectedPhotographPhotograph index
Confirm every required photograph exists, is legible, and is identifiable to the finding it supports.
Evidence source
Unknown
Vendor value
None published
Observed value
Not recorded

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