Component 3: Prototype & Testing
During this stage of the design process we are obtaining materials from consultants, building our physical prototypes, and testing our prototypes all while recording data and documentation.
Resource Planning
In this step Zach and I had to come up with the materials that we would use for the actual product if we were to make this product for real. Also, we had to come up with the costs of all those materials. We were being pro-active and also did the same things for the materials for the prototype we built. Also included in this step, was to make a list of all the machinery, tools, etc that would be needed to complete the prototype.
Choosing Materials & Fastening Procedures
This step is the exact same thing as the step before but in paragraph form. Our teacher wanted us to write our excel sheet form into a paragraph form in word. Therefore, it lays out the materials we would be using, where they will be placed, and how they will function.
Build Prototype
During this stage (Feb. 27-28, 2019) we built our physical prototype. I had all the necessary space and tools to build this prototype, so Zach and I left school a couple of days and built this in my garage.
Identifying Subsystems & Incremental Testing
During this portion of the project, Zach and I had to again make another PowerPoint describing the different functionalities, how we would test the different components of the prototype, and what a successful test would mean to us, for each component of the prototype.
Test Procedure
Once our teacher signed off on at least 3 tests we could move onto the test procedures. This consisted of listing out the intentions for the test, the actual steps of how to test, and any safety issues that could come along the way while testing. We also had to give a short summary of why we are testing this particular portion of the prototype.
Critical Design Review
During this informal presentation we talked about our budget, bill of materials, testing, testing procedures, accomplishments, etc.