156B Week 7

Project Status

Balloon Analysis

Currently working in Altair Hypermesh to get a running time-based simulation. Still learning the use of the software and getting closer to developing a simulated model for verification.

Last weeks new design didn't work out and had similar problems with the tube spacer breaking. Will start talking to Tom to see if an aluminum mold can be created for future uses. Regardless, current model still works and is being used to develop more prototypes.

Also was able to get pressure readings from the air pressure sensor and was compared to a physical gauge. Readings seems to line up and the sensor can be implemented. The maximum pressure seems to be around 3 psi - we will adjust as more trials are done.

PCB Design

Set up the PCB design and should hopefully have it manufactured in the upcoming week. Will probably not have this by the end of the quarter, but will be used in weeks following. Sponsor is happy with the wires as is and sees the PCB as an extra feature.

Past Week Accomplishments

• Measured and compared the pressure readings from the electric sensor to the manual gauge (Karie)

• Cleaned up the code so that the overall functionality fo the system works and can be used as a final deliverable (Karie/Ryan)

• Started setting up a simulation in Altair Hypermesh and will use this to validate our current model - regarding pressure

• Did a quick ideal gas calculation based on air mass and volume but needs to be improved (Udai)

• Set up PCB and created the schematics of the circuitry (Ryan)

Sponsor Feedback

• The balloon looks really good and looking forward to getting outside feedback

  • Would like Udai to one day show the mold making process for future uses

• If the PCB isn't finished by the end of the quarter, that is alright

  • Happy with a system that can function as is and proves it can solve the pressure ulcer problem

• Start looking into future manufacturing companies that can take our prototype

  • Refine and manufacture it so that it can be distributed

Instructor Feedback

• If time cannot be met, focus on PCB later after the project

• Use of analysis can be for validating the prototype and design

Nest Steps

• Refine PCB and get it printed out (Philip)

• Start soldering the Arduino pro mini and get that to run like the Arduino Uno (Karie)

• Finish two housing designs - one for PCB and the other for open wires - get this printed by the end of week 8 (Ryan)

• Continue with validation methods to finalize and confirm design (Udai)