Automata Project
Define a Problem
group norms:
- take all ideas into consideration
- stay in contact via social media
- always inform partner of large decisions or changes
- create a decision matrix or pros and cons list to determine the solution to arguments
- make sure to stay productive (or as productive as possible)
- try to stay on task
Generate Concepts
Existing Products
Certain warnings must be added to the automata toys, such as a choking hazard for the small parts. If the wood is chipped, then children must be careful when handling the product to prevent injury. The consumer must also be informed that the product could be fragile and to handle it with care.
Develop a Solution
The changes to the cams parameters just made the cams smaller. This was needed so that one the cams would fit and move effectively in the box. Secondly the cams needed to be smaller so that the range of motion on the parts was realistic and didn’t look crazy. Parameter constraints made this easy in that one change to the main parameter change the whole cam so time didn’t need to be wasted going into each individual dimension and change it.
Construct and Test a Prototype
The material we selected was Cast Bronze and it weighed 11.222 pounds. The cost per pound of bronze was 1.28. So the total cost to make the automata would be $14.36.
Evaluate the Solution
My parents were the adults that I should my project. First, I showed my mother who thought the idea was clever in giving it an environmental aspect. But, she did want to know if we could of made a wider range of motion because right now it is very restricted. My father was also amazed by the idea itself because he loves the outdoors. It was the same as my mother though in that my dad wanted to see a more advanced version that was more active and realistic. If I would be able to have more time and be able to make changes there would be a few that I would do. One change I would do is make the arm longer and have a more realistic movement to it. Another change I would make is having the water move with the fish so the realistic aspect is stronger. Other than those two changes there isn't too much more I would change. The overall experience of this project was a good experience. Even though Luke and I argued a little over the inventor parts of the project it was just over the lagging of the inventor, we did not disagree too much in anything else except those situations. Luke and I are almost equally skilled in inventor so the work was equal in what we each did. The team effort was there as well. Luke focused on the bear and the weebly and I tried to finish most of the other stuff and luke helped me as we worked. The skills used in inventor during the project weren't exactly difficult but just were lagging. It was interesting to have to try to find an original idea that wasn't done before. This project is a good milestone for the projects soon to come.