Project: Designing a Mobility Aid Wheel-Steriliser for During the COVID-19 Pandemic
This project aimed to develop a mobility aid wheel-steriliser during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on creating a low-cost, attachable, and non-intrusive solution for wheelchair users. The design utilized CAD (Autodesk Inventor), material selection, engineering design, prototyping, and manufacturing reports to address the unique challenges of working in a remote environment while maintaining accessibility.
Project Statement:
A client-based project was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, tasked with designing a mobility aid wheel-steriliser that could be used by wheelchair users in medical settings. The system required to be low-cost, efficient, and easy to use, despite geographical distance and timing constraints.
Results
Design: A passive wheel-steriliser design was developed, utilising the movement of the wheels themselves to apply cleaning.
Prototyping: A functional prototype was developed and sent to the client as part of the deliverables.
Manufacturing Report: A report on different manufacturing processes, and quotes from various companies in the client’s region was produced as part of the deliverables. This report also included the manufacturing requirements, material requirements, and instructions to use the prototype.
Materials Selection: Material selection took into account chemical interactions, shatter resistance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Design: The design addressed end-user needs, ease of use, and manufacturing feasibility.
Discussion:
The design process involved researching and understanding the client's requirements, as well as considering various factors such as material properties, cost constraints, and manufacturing capabilities. CAD models were developed, and a prototype of the system was made using 3D printed parts to demonstrate the proof of concept.
Challenges arose due to geographic distance working across time zones and pricing constraints, which affected project timelines and costs. Despite these challenges, the client was understanding of the delays and provided positive feedback on the prototype and the project.
Conclusion:
This project demonstrates my ability to design a low-cost, attachable mobility aid wheel-steriliser during an unprecedented pandemic. The design process involved a thorough analysis of the client's requirements, material selection, engineering design, prototyping, and manufacturing reports. Through addressing challenges in a remote environment while maintaining accessibility, I developed a functional prototype that met the needs of wheelchair users, without impacting their ability to use their wheelchair.
Skills Utilised:
CAD (Autodesk Inventor) for design and prototyping
Material Selection for chemical interactions, shatter resistance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness
Engineering Design to address end-user needs, ease of use, and manufacturing feasibility
Software Used:
Autodesk Inventor for design and prototyping
CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks) for material selection and analysis
