Element C: PRESENTATION AND JUSTIFICATION OF SOLUTION DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

DESIGN STATEMENT

Our product will effectively and reliably detect concentrations of dissolved solids in tap water.

TARGET POPULATION

Our product is designed to benefit individual consumers but can also be implemented in various settings, from small businesses to large corporations. 

DESIGN CRITERIA

1. The device must be scalable/adaptive  

Parameters: The device must be able to adapt to multiple different types of faucet heads

Research: "Kitchen taps are not universally fitting, as there can be variations in size, design, and installation requirements. It's essential to choose a tap that is compatible with your sink and plumbing system." 

"Faucets are not universal, as they come in a variety of sizes, styles, and designs to fit different sinks, countertops, and bathroom/kitchen configurations. "

Citation: https://kas.com.tr/en/blog/are-faucets-universal/

2. The device will detect the proper substance of the water

Parameters: The device will alert the user if the substance of the water is safe. 0-500 ppm is considered safe (green light). 500+ is unsafe. 

Research:  "Readings above 500 ppm require further investigation for toxic particles and heavy metals, and readings above 1000 ppm are considered unsafe for human consumption."

Citation: https://www.lapl.org/neisci/kits/water-quality/why#:~:text=Though%20an%20elevated%20TDS%20level,considered%20unsafe%20for%20human%20consumption 

3. The device can show the user if the water is potable   

Parameters:  A light indicator (green and red) can help the user identify if it is potable. A green light would tell the user that the water is potable and a red light would tell the user that the water is not potable.

Research:  “LED indicators function as visual prompts, effectively communicating indispensable information to users” 

Citation:  led-indicator.com/blog-how-long-do-ledlast.html 

4. Device must fit to a sink head  

Parameters: The device must fit a sink head with a diameter of 2.2cm 

5. Device must not cause any disturbance in the flow of water 

Parameters: The flow rate of water must be the "normal" flow rate of water

Research: “The average faucet has a flow rate of about 3 to 5 GPM. Adding a screw-in faucet aerator reduces the flow to 0.5 to 1.5 GPM in the bathroom and 2.2 GPM in the kitchen.” 

Citation:https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/ph/phecc/strat_w1#:~:text=The%20average%20faucet%20has%20a,2.2%20GPM%20in%20the%20kitchen. 

DESIGN CONSTRAINTS:

1. Time - all of our project work must be completed by Dec 20

2. Money - we are allotted 40 dollars but may be able to spend a little more if individuals can pitch in