1. 1
Engineering Applications:
Service Learning Project
Fall 2014
Aza Tulepbergenov,
Boise State University
2. 2
Azamat Tulepbergenov
Anthony Keith
Samuel Pritchard
Hector Hernandez
Activity 9-A
1. Initial problem statement
• To motivate a client to exercise
2. Key insights from research
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Limited mobility
• Unbalanced
• Prefers sitting position
Other References:
http://www.arthritis.org/arthritis-facts/disease-center/rheumatoid-arthritis.php
3. Detailed Problem Statement
Design a device that will motivate a client with cognitive disability and rheumatoid
arthritis to assist in performing daily exercises, such as wall climbs and ball lifts (see picture
above).
4. Objectives
• To motivate client to exercise (M)
• Easy to clean (M)
• Adjustable height (M)
• Device must have visible measurements (M)
• Make the device fun, pleasing and interactive. (HW)
! Vibrating, music, lights
• Mobile (move from wall to wall) (W)
5. Constraints
• No squeaking sound (M)
• Budget (M)
! the budget does not exceed $200
3. 3
• Time (M)
! must be completed by end of semester
• Size/Weight (W)
! make device light enough to carry, but sturdy enough not to break
• Ecofriendly (W)
6. Client approval
Activity 9-B: Concept Design
Recall a detailed problem statement from Activity 9-A:
“Design a device that will motivate a client with cognitive disability and rheumatoid
arthritis to assist in performing daily exercises, such as wall climbs.”
1. List of functions.
In this section we break down the detailed problem statement into list of functions:
Function Requirement
Motivate a client to start exercises Make a device attractive to a client
Motivate a client to engage in wall climbs Ensure that client will not give up after few
tries
Reward a client upon completion of exercises Reward a client with something that she likes
(music, vibrating, etc.)
2. Brainstorm design options to satisfy specific functions. In this section we came up
with several design options that would satisfy specific functions listed above.
Function /
Design options
Option A Option B Option C Option D
4. 4
Motivate to start
exercises
yellow ladder
with a single bar
and metrics
included
spacious
structure
yellow ladder
with several bars
and metrics
included
vertical bars
such as ones in
the picture
Motivate to
engage in
exercises
vibration vibrating gloves sound moving handle
Reward a client
upon completion
different shapes
on the sides
toy piano that
plays music
buttons lights
3. Overall Solutions Table. In this section we put together several design options and
made four overall solutions.
Solution 1 Solution 2 Solution 3 Solution 4
yellow ladder with a
single bar with
metrics included
spacious structure yellow ladder with
several bars
vertical bars such as
ones in the picture
with metrics included
5. 5
vibration, moving
handle
sound sound vibration, moving
handle
different shapes on
the sides
buttons lights different shapes on
the sides
4. Additional details to more fully describe certain solutions.
Solution 1:
This solution would be made out of PVC pipes. It has a piano on one end and a wooden board
with different shapes attached to it on the other end. The track behind the PVC pipes will allow
the bar to go up and down and the removable bolt makes it stay on one spot on the track.
Solution 4:
This solution would also be made out of PVC material. The skeleton of the device would be
vertical C-shaped bars (as ones shown in the picture) mounted to the wall. The clamps would
allow the bar to move up and down or stay in place. The vibrating apparatus will be held by
clamps.
6. 6
5. Solutions and evaluations against objectives and Constraints
** the solutions with the most (*) is the best given solution.
Objectives
with metrics
Solution 1
To start
exercises -
yellow ladder
with one bar
and metrics
included
To engage -
vibration,
moving handle
Reward -
different shapes
on the sides
Solution 2
To start
exercises -
yellow ladder
with several
bars and
metrics
included
To engage -
sound
Reward - lights
Solution 3
To start
exercises -
spacious
structure
To engage -
sound
Reward -
buttons
Solution 4
To start
exercises -
vertical bars
with metrics
included such
as ones in the
picture
To engage -
vibration,
moving handle
Reward -
different shapes
on the sides
To motivate a
client to
exercise.
-Make a device
attractive
**** **** ** ****
Make device
fun, pleasing
interactive. -
Reward a client
with something
that she likes
(music,
vibrating, etc.)
**** *** *** ****
Easy to clean **** *** ** ****
Adjustable
height
*** *** * ****
Device must
have visible
measurements
**** *** * ****
Constraints
with metrics
7. 7
No squeaking
sound
**** **** **** ****
Budget (does
not exceed
$200)
**** *** ** ****
Size/Weight
-Make device
light enough to
carry, but
sturdy enough
not to break
*** *** ** ****
Time
-Must be
complete by
end of semester
*** *** ** ****
6. After close examining four overall solutions with project’s objectives and constraints, we
narrowed down our choices to two solutions to carry forward to the next step. Our
ultimate choices are Solution 1 and Solution 4 (please see table from step 3). As one can
see from the previous step, Solutions 1 and 4 received higher ratings (more stars) than the
rest of solutions. For example, we believe that Solutions 1 and 4 each would cost less
than $200; moreover, we also believe that vibration would bring the client more
motivation to do exercises than sound would.
Activity 9-C
If you recall from Activity 9-B, the most viable solutions were Solution 1 and Solution 4 (please
see Figure 1). Only one prototype instead of two was built and tested; that is Solution 4 was built
and tested.
Figure 1
Solution 1 Solution 4
yellow ladder with a
single bar with metrics
included
vertical C-shaped bars
such as ones in the picture
with metrics included
8. 8
vibration, moving handle vibration, moving handle
different shapes on the
sides
different shapes on the
sides
The functional model of the Solution 4 was built, using PVC pipes and elbow-connectors. Note
that, in a functional model “at least a portion of the product features is constructed to function as
intended in the final design.” (Lab Manual, 9-15) The functional model that was built included
the vertical bars and a moving handle.
30
inches
30
inches
30
inches
Clamps
9. 9
Written description of a functional model:
This model is made out of PVC material. The skeleton of the device is vertical C-shaped bars (as
ones shown in the picture above). The toy piano held by a horizontal pole between the two C-
shaped bars is a substitute to the vibrating device that we intend to use in the final design. The
clamps allow the model to have an adjustable height. The increments are separated two inches
apart. Note that in the final design the shower bars will be used instead of PVC pipes. Also note
that the different shapes on the sides (as in Figure 1) were not used due to time constraint.
Figure 2
Function / Objectives
/ Constraints (include
priority)
Test Results Design Modifications
required
Motivate a client to
exercise (M)
The device was
placed on the wall as
it were mounted. In
order to mimic the
final design, one of
client’s favorite toys
(namely the piano)
was used.
The client showed
direct signs of
satisfaction and
attractiveness to the
functional model.
Client was eager to
start exercising.
Paint the vertical C-
shaped bars into
yellow in order to
make it more
attractive to the client.
Adjustable Height
(M)
The piano was first
placed at the height
that the client could
reach. Then, the
piano had been
moved up, forcing
the client to reach up
for it.
The client gained
satisfaction from the
piano at the starting
height, and then
reached up to the
next height.
Overall the testing of
a functional model
was successful.
Although, the slight
changes in design
dimensions are
required.
No squeaking sound
(M)
The client exerted
forces on the model
while using it.
No squeaking sound
has been produced.
No further
modifications
required.
Overall, the functional model of Solution 4 proved its worthiness. The tests were successful and
helped the team to obtain better insights of what the client wanted. As you could see from the
Figure 2, the test results were positive and supported team’s ideas. The functional model
performed its main function; that is to motivate a client to do wall climbs. Therefore, the team
decided to carry on the Solution 4.
The tests revealed some areas of further improvement. The dimensions that were used in the
functional model will be revisited. For example, the vertical C-shaped bars will be placed 2 feet
apart instead of 2.5 feet. The new mounting height will be 4 feet away from the floor level.
Meeting with a client was utterly beneficial for both the client and the team. Mutual expectations
has been established between the two sides. The team has confirmed with a client details
regarding mounting device to the wall.
10. 10
Activity 9-D: Detailed Design
As determined in Activity 9-C, the solution 4 was chosen as the ultimate solution for the initial
problem statement.
Detailed Product Plan
The main skeleton of the structure consists of three main parts: shower bars, pins and a support-
structure for a specific toy.
Part 1: Shower bars
Figure 1
Shower bars can be seen in Figure 1. Note that, there are total of two identical shower bars used
in this design. The vertical length of each piece is 432 inches (36 feet). They are made of
stainless steel. The Home Depot was a provider for such structure. The changes to shower bars
included: the drilled holes 3/8 inches in diameter, 2 inches apart. These modifications allow the
device to be height-adjustable.
Part 2: Pins
Figure 2
The pins are intended to fix the support-structure for a specific toy at a certain height. The
diameter of vertical part of a pin is 5/16 inches; the length is 2 ¾ inches. The Home Depot was
also a main provider for such structure.
Part 3: Support-structure for a specific toy
Figure 3
11. 11
Option A: Toy piano holder
Pair of trigger clamps such as shown above is intended to hold the toy piano. The regulators
allow adjusting the bottom jaw of the clamp depending on client’s preferences. The clamps are
made of carbonized steel, which make them sturdy. The Home Depot was a main provider for
such structure. Some modifications have been made to the clamps: the 5/16 inches holes were
drilled at the bottom, middle and top of each clamp. It allows attaching clamps to the shower
bars via pins.
Option B: Toy snake holder
The 36 inches black metal pipe was bought from the Home Depot. It then was reduced to 31
inches; the two 5/16 inches holes were drilled 2 inches from top and bottom of the pipe
respectively. It allows attaching the pipe to shower bars via pins. The pipe was then painted in
yellow, as it is client’s favorite color. The toy snake is intended to wrap around the pipe.
Option C: Buzzer-button holder
The 36 in. X 12.5 in. wooden lamina has a scaled pocket. The buzzer-button is intended to go
inside this compartment. The further modifications are required for this piece: four holes will be
drilled at each of four corners of the lamina; the lamina as well as the pocket will be primed and
painted yellow after the drilling would be done. The holes would allow the lamina to attach to
the shower bars via pins. Note that, the wooden lamina was obtained on team’s own expense.
12. 12
Recap:
The reader could see the three main parts of this design. The team possesses all of the parts;
during the remaining time left for this project team plans to finalize the buzzer-button holder and
assemble all of the parts together.
Final Design
Figure 4
The shower bars will be mounted to the wall at the client’s location. The mounting height will be
48 inches (4 feet) above the ground; the horizontal distance between the centerlines of each
shower bar will be 25 inches. The support-structures for each toy will then be attached to the
shower bars via pins depending on the preferences of a client. Note that, two sets of four pins
will be provided to a client. (One set for spare)
Project Schedule
13. 13
Project Budget
Pictures of the final project
Final Project (front view)
14. 14
Client is engaged in playing piano (and exercising!)
Client is engaged in playing piano (and exercising!)
15. 15
Team with a client
Key features
1) The holes on the wooden piece are drilled with an extra space making it easy for client’s
helpers to put the pins in and out of the device. (see picture below)
2) Team provided the client with 2 sets of 4 pins (8 total)
3) The spring clamp is intended to prevent a buzzer button from sliding from the pocket.
4) Support structures for vibrating tube and buzzer button are colored yellow (client’s favorite
color)
16. 16
Maintenance/Repair Documentation for Team Hailey’s motivational device
Introduction:
The purpose of this document is to walk the client through the process of assembling the device.
The necessary safety precautions will also be addressed in this document.
The skeleton of the device consists of two shower bars placed 25 inches apart on the wall in the
specified room. Note, due to author’s preferences, the skeleton of the device shall be addressed
as “main body” for future reference. Then 3 different parts are attached to the main body with the
help of complementary pins. For further use, those 3 different parts are referred as “support-
structures.”
The content
The Main Body, Pins and Support-Structures
Part 1: Shower bars (2 total)
Figure 1
17. 17
Shower bars can be seen in Figure 1. Note that, there are total of two identical shower bars used
in this design. The vertical length of each piece is 432 inches (36 feet). They are made of
stainless steel. The Home Depot was a provider for such structure. The changes to shower bars
included: the drilled holes 3/8 inches in diameter, 2 inches apart. These modifications allow the
device to be height-adjustable.
Part 2: Pins (8 total)
Figure 2
The pins are intended to fix the support-structure for a specific toy at a certain height. The
diameter of vertical part of a pin is 5/16 inches; the length is 2 ¾ inches. The Home Depot was
also a main provider for such structure.
Part 3: Support-structure for a specific toy
Figure 3
Option A: Toy piano holder (2 total)
18. 18
Pair of trigger clamps such as shown above is intended to hold the toy piano. The regulators
allow adjusting the bottom jaw of the clamp depending on client’s preferences. The clamps are
made of carbonized steel, which make them sturdy. The Home Depot was a main provider for
such structure. Some modifications have been made to the clamps: the 5/16 inches holes were
drilled at the bottom, middle and top of each clamp. It allows attaching clamps to the shower
bars via pins.
Option B: Toy snake holder (1 total)
The 36 inches black metal pipe was bought from the Home Depot. It then was reduced to 31
inches; the two 5/16 inches holes were drilled 2 inches from top and bottom of the pipe
respectively. It allows attaching the pipe to shower bars via pins. The pipe was then painted in
yellow, as it is client’s favorite color. The toy snake is intended to wrap around the pipe.
Option C: Buzzer-button holder (1 total)
The 36 in. X 12.5 in. wooden lamina has a scaled pocket. The buzzer-button is intended to go
inside this compartment. The further modifications are required for this piece: four holes will be
drilled at each of four corners of the lamina; the lamina as well as the pocket will be primed and
painted yellow after the drilling would be done. The holes would allow the lamina to attach to
the shower bars via pins. Note that, the wooden lamina was obtained on team’s own expense.
Assembling the parts
19. 19
Step 1
Choose which support-structure and the mounting height you want to use. Then attach the toy to
the main body and push the pins through the holes in the bar.
Step 2
Close the pins.
Step 3
Repeat step 1 and 2 for the other end on the second shower bar
Special instructions for toy piano holder:
1) Attach the clamps to the shower bars
2) Place the piano between the jaws
3) Adjust the bottom jaw using “bottom leverage” (see picture below)
Changing toys
Step 1
Choose which support structure and toy you want to use
Step 2
Open the pins
Step 3
Take the current structure out of the main body and repeat steps 1 and 2 from “Assembling the
parts”
Disassembling the parts
Step 1
Open the pins
Step 2
Accurately pull the pins out of the shower bars
Step 3
Remove the toy
Safety instructions
1. Avoid hanging from any of the support-structures
2. Keep the pins in a safe from the children place
3. Don’t eat the parts
4. Be careful! Don’t let user press “upper leverage” as the clamps may open and toy piano
may fall out
To
open
the
clamps
press
this
“upper
leverage”
To
close
clamps
press
this
“bottom
leverage”
20. 20
Cleaning instructions
The device is very easy to clean, using only a disinfecting wipe. Avoid exposing device to water.
If you have any questions, please contact me:
Aza Tulepbergenov
azamattulepbergenov@u.boisestate.edu
Team Evaluation
