Proof of Concept

Prototypes:

Prototype #1

• Storyboard: (See Figure 1 Appendix A) This is a graphic representation of the cart after we implement and make all the changes that satisfies our objectives and constraints such as moving the location of the button that accelerates the cart since Harper can currently only made coordinated movements with her head. We would like to move the button to an area which she can easily hit it with her head. The accessibility of the killswitch is important because at first it was located next to the steering wheel which made it difficult for Harper’s father to access while the cart is in motion. Since Harper needs assistance operating the cart since she is partly blind and unable to make purposeful body movements, moving the killswitch for the cart is essential for Harper’s safety. Increasing the angle at which the seat is laid back is one of the thing that we believe will help held back as well as implementing a harness system. Harper tends to fall forward since she can’t hold herself up. Installing an interactive toy onto the cart will given Harper an opportunity to learn cause and effect, giving her some entertainment while riding the cart.

Prototype #2

• Partially functioning model: (See Figure 2A and 2B Appendix A) For this model some features are built out completely, while others are included in a partially functioning. This one is special in the way that there is a physical model. It’s nice to be able to feel materials and be able to visualize the size and ratios of the car to the human eye.

Test Design, Implementation, and Analysis:

Prototype #1 Test

While we are not able to physically test this prototype we can analyze how each part, addition and modification to the cart may looks like. Additionally, we can predict future problems we may encounter in the adjustment of features in the cart and at the same time met the objectives, constraints, and safety needed. By sketching ideas and discussing the possible results. Giving us a visual representation and a better understanding of what may be a possibility. As well as a realistic solution and possible changes to make based of our observations, and things that we can improve. Once we do get the chance to test the cart with Harper we will make sure she fits in the car with the new seat and then make sure the button is at the right height for her to reach with her head. We will also place the back pack into the basket to make sure it isn’t too heavy.

Prototype #2 Test

Our prototype #2 is a partially functioning model meaning we are working with our final product meaning that we don’t want to make permanent changes on the cart. In addition, the prototype is inconclusive because once again we are working with the final product and we want to be as careful as possible by analyzing each decision we make before do any changes. This means that testing the product is hard since is inconclusive. Additionally, the only way to test the prototype is individual parts. We tested the basket with 5 pounds of weights to make sure it will be strong enough to hold Harper’s backpack. We also tested the kill switch and with the wires extended and it functions well. We tried to mount the button by the top of the seat and are still working on prototyping solutions. We ultimately added a t-joint piece of PVC and a short straight section to extent the button by the head rest. We will add a tighter fitting piece to make it more secure when finishing the project. These tests are helpful in discovering what we still need to do and what worked well. In conclusion most all the tests worked perfectly and the changes we made on the cart can be fix if needed. As a future references we will test the cart with Harper as soon as we made most of the changes we want and work from there, but we are really confident that everything is going to work well.