Skill-Builder:
Skill-Builder:
Mechanical Mechanism
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The goal was to create multiple models of varying fidelities of a chosen mechanical mechanism in order to demonstrate full comprehension of the mechanism's function. During this project, the main skills used were visual analysis of mechanical elements and the usage of the engineering design process.
The goal was to create multiple models of varying fidelities of a chosen mechanical mechanism in order to demonstrate full comprehension of the mechanism's function. During this project, the main skills used were visual analysis of mechanical elements and the usage of the engineering design process.
Mechanism 100 - Quick Return Crank Motion
Low fidelity models of Mechanism 100
On the left is my personal low-fidelity model of the mechanism. It is crafted from recycled carboard, bent earrings, and standard scotch tape.
On the left is my personal low-fidelity model of the mechanism. It is crafted from recycled carboard, bent earrings, and standard scotch tape.
On the right is my partner's low-fidelity model that was crafted from more recycled cardboard, liquid glue, and a plastic straw.
On the right is my partner's low-fidelity model that was crafted from more recycled cardboard, liquid glue, and a plastic straw.
Final Model of Mechanism 100
Depicted above is the high-fidelity, laser printed model of the mechanism - this is the final model. The various parts of the mechanism were drawn on AutoCAD, a design and automation software. The display layout of the AutoCAD file is included below.
Depicted above is the high-fidelity, laser printed model of the mechanism - this is the final model. The various parts of the mechanism were drawn on AutoCAD, a design and automation software. The display layout of the AutoCAD file is included below.
Once the file was drawn, it was uploaded to a laser printer, allowing for the precise cut of each of the necessary pieces. A sheet of thick cardboard was the medium in which the pieces were cut from.
Once the file was drawn, it was uploaded to a laser printer, allowing for the precise cut of each of the necessary pieces. A sheet of thick cardboard was the medium in which the pieces were cut from.
The mechanism was pieced together using brass fasteners and hot glue. This step was not difficult, as the function of the mechanism was already understood due to the construction of the low-fidelity models.
AutoCAD design of the parts for the high-fidelity mechanism model
Project Reflection:
During the development of the low-fidelity model, there was some difficulty finding a suitable material to act as a fastener for the layers of cardboard but still allowed for the movement of each piece. My solution to this was the usage of earrings. This proved to be a successful strategy, and a good use of creativity. Not only did the earrings function work, but it added a fun element to the model's design.
As previously mentioned, tape was used as the binding element in my personal low-fidelity model. This proved to be problematic as the tape didn't hold the pieces together. For this reason, hot glue was used in the assembly of the laser-cut model. Not only is it durable (in this context) but is also efficient, since it dries quickly.
This is an example of the reflection and improvement of original ideas in the second cycle of the design process.
This project was beneficial in developing skills such as creative ideation, improvisation, versatility, and teamwork. It helped to foster key principles of an engineering mindset during the analysis of each piece of the mechanism, the development of each model, and identification on areas for improvement.
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