Embedded Files
Assembly Introduction
Assembly Introduction
Assembly is the joining together of all the sub-systems that were mentioned in the Manufacturing Section. It is in this process that The-Franny will start to take the shape of the CAD model it humbly began as.
Connecting X-frame to the Side Frames
Assembly of Seat Latches with Seat and Testing Mechanism
Adding wheels
Adding Storage and Comfortability Features
Adding Heart Rate Sensor Systems
Connecting the X-Frame to the Side Frames
Connecting the X-Frame to the Side Frames
In order to join the folding mechanism to the side frames, the location of the stopper pieces needs to be determined first. This is dependent on the width that the seat takes up when in Rest Mode. The X-frame is then loosely bolted in with 1/4" rivets to determine the location of drill holes. Once all holes are marked, a manual hand drill is used to make the holes into the frame.
After the drills are made, the X-frame connectors and Stopper pieces are bolted in. The initial testing of the collapsing mechanism showed that a lot of force was required to fold The-Franny into its compact state. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) members suggested that we use Nylon Lock Nuts to reduce the friction and force required to compress and expand the mobility walker.
Seat Assembly and Testing
Seat Assembly and Testing
The seat assembles using PLA adhesive to join the latch components and then nuts and bolts to fasten each latch to the wooden board.
As shown in the image above, one set of latches pivots about the lower bar frame while the other latches onto the upper bar frame. Small fillets are used for the ends of each latch to allow the seat assembly to "click" into the upper frame when not in use.
Adding Wheels
Adding Wheels
Caster wheels are press-fitted into the framing using a mallet. The front set of wheels is pivoted while the back set of wheels is fixed using TIG welding.
Front Wheels (Pivoted)
Rear Wheels (Fixed)
Adding Storage and Comfortability Features
Adding Storage and Comfortability Features
The storage features include a zipped pocket under the retractable seat and a storage fabric pack in the front of the walker that collapses with The-Franny when not in use. Comfortability features include gel elbow rests in the upper sections of the frame. These features are attached to The-Franny using velcro tape and screws.
Front Storage
Seat Storage
Elbow Rest
Adding Heart Rate Sensor Systems
Adding Heart Rate Sensor Systems
The heart rate sensor system is comprised of a breadboard, an Arduino board, SD card, and a 9V battery. An acrylic box serves as the housing for all the components. When the frame is not in use, a health care professional can remove the SD card connected to the board and read the raw heart sensor data for the patient and track their daily activity levels.
Thumb Rest Component
Thumb Rest Component
Overall Profile View
Bottom View
The 3D components shown above are attached to the handles of the frame. Designed with ergonomics in mind, the thumb can naturally rest on the heart sensor and the wiring can be channeled down the notch.
Page updated
Report abuse