Lab 1A: Introduction to Prototype Development

Important: Please note that you must register on the EG1004 website before performing this lab. The information on the lab PCs cannot be accessed outside of the lab rooms. Email copies of all the files created on the lab PCs to a personal account and share it with all members of your group.

Objective

The objective of this portion of the lab is to become familiar with sensors and prototyping components commonly used in EG-UY 1004. These components are commonly used for Rapid Assembly and Design (RAD) projects.

Overview

Prototyping is the process of designing and building an early model of a product to test it. An essential part of engineering design processes; a prototype can serve as a proof of concept showing that the system or device can be built and will perform correctly (Jensen et al., 2016). Good prototypes should be cost-effective, perform well, and use the fewest amount of resources needed while maintaining the safety and efficacy of the final product.

In EG-UY 1004, the RAD project provides students with an opportunity to prototype a device. In this lab, students will brainstorms on the purpose and functionality of different prototype ideas based on a variety of chosen electrical components (like wires and sensors) and mechanical components (like wheels and gears).

Materials and Equipment

• Pen and paper

The table below outlines the components presented in the ideation activity.

Figure X. Salinity values of various bodies of water on Earth, measured in ppt.

Body of Water	Salinity
Baltic Sea	8 ppt
Black Sea	18 ppt
Average Seawater	34.7 ppt
Mediterranean Sea	39 ppt
Red Sea	40 ppt
Mono Lake	>50 ppt

Procedure

In this activity, student teams will spin a virtual wheel that displays various prototyping components to be incorporated into a prototype. There will be three rounds of ideation and presentation to the class. Each round will run according to the following schedule:

1. A TA will divide students into teams of 2 to 4 students. 2. A TA spin the virtual wheel to select the three required components for the round. 3. Each team will ideate for 10 minutes. 4. Each team will present their idea to the class for 2 minutes. 5. A TA will provide each team with feedback.

Rules

• The design must include all 3 components selected by the wheel.
• Additional components can be included if wanted.

Spin the Wheel Rounds

1. Discuss a prototype that can be used during your time at college. 2. Form small groups with classmates in your major. Discuss a prototype that can solve a problem related to your major. 3. No limits! Come up with a brand new idea for a prototype.

Assignment

TBD

References

Jensen et al. 2016. “Prototypes in engineering design: Definitions and strategies.” Accessed 22 December 2023 from https://www.designsociety.org/publication/38892/PROTOTYPES+IN+ENGINEERING+DESIGN%3A+DEFINITIONS+AND+STRATEGIES