Preliminary Lab 5 involved testing several designs and comparing certain features of each to determine which was the most efficient, successful, and practical design. This is seen in Figure 5.1 and was done by grading each design’s weight distribution, potential dangers, durability, space management, aerodynamics, and cost to build. The attributes of each design were compared to a sample design and graded as better or worse by comparison. Afterwards, each category was weighted in term of overall importance. After weightings were applied, with both stability and safety being highly weighted, it was determined that the group design, as well as a design combining Alicia and Stevie’s designs, would be considered for further testing and revision.
Concept Screening and Concept Scoring:
Description of Criteria:
- Stability: How evenly distributed the weight is
- Safety: How unlikely it is to injure someone
- Durability: How likely it is the withstand time
- Minimal blockage: How well space is managed
- Aerodynamic: How air resistant it is
- Cost efficient: How much it cost to build
Pros and Cons of Designs:
- Alicia:
- Pros: Safer, more durable, stable, aerodynamic
- Cons: could improve on stability and having minimal blockage
- Stevie:
- Pros: Safer, more durable and stable
- Cons: Not as cost efficient(shell), not as aerodynamic
- Eric:
- Pros: More stable, durable, and cost efficient
- Cons: Not as safe, can improve on minimal blockage and aerodynamic
- Kevin:
- Pros: More durable and aerodynamic
- Cons: Not as cost efficient, can improve on minimal blockage, stability and safety
Designs that will be carried forward for testing are the group design and the combined design (Alicia ad Stevie).