Rapid Prototyping

A series of projects utilizing different rapid prototyping techniques.

Background

Throughout my time at the maker spaces and various design classes, I got to learn nearly every aspect of rapid prototyping available to me. This page will highlight four of the most commonly used rapid prototyping techniques, paper prototyping, laser cutting, sewing, and 3D printing.

All of these projects were completed within two weeks. Each project was meant to test either feasibility, usability, desirability, or impact.

Paper Prototyping

For this design challenge, I was tasked to create a prototype of an electric screwdriver entirely out of paper. To evaluate the success of the design, I created the following requirements.

variable speed control
automatically select and switch between either Phillips or flathead shape and five different sizes of each shape (for 10 total screwhead choices)
screwdriver direction selection mechanism (non-digital) to either screw in or unscrew
digital readout (monochromatic, non-touch sensitive) of number of screws screwed and screws unscrewed for tracking your progress as a handyperson.
can be used right or left-handed
product dimensions are a minimum of 6 inches long and must be able to contain a rechargeable battery
product weight is between 1–1.5 pounds

Laser Cutting

For this assignment, I had to create something out of cardboard that held a phone in a useful way. In addition to holding my phone, the design requirements also stated that:

The final design can not use more than 2 pieces of 18x24 inch cardboard
No tape, glue, or any other fasteners can be used
The final stand must be able to be taken apart and stored flat
Feasibility: The final design must be able to hold my phone horizontally at at least 3 different heights
Usability: The final design must be able to be used to hold my phone to allow me to take vlog-style videos

Sewing

In this design challenge, I had to create something out of fabric that could:

Hold items
Have some type of closure

With these very broad design requirements, I wanted to challenge myself to make something I could actually see myself using on a regular basis. I landed on making a make-up pouch that had a wide opening so you could see everything inside at once.

For this prototype, I focused on feasibility and usability. I wanted to see if I was able to construct this type of bag in a relatively short period of time and if it would be applicable to my desired intentions — opening wide enough to see everything inside.

3D Printing

For this project, I had to 3D model and print something that would be useful in my everyday life.

My stove vent has two switches on it — fan and light. Unfortunately, one of the knobs fell off and broke entirely into 2 pieces. I wanted to test my 3D modeling skills by trying to create as close of a replica as I could to the existing knob.

My goals for this project were usability and impact. I wanted to make a functioning prototype that worked well and was able to impact me and others by improving the experience of using the stove.

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