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.

Table 1: Components for Prototype Ideation

Component	Function	Output	Example Application
Light Sensor	Measures light intensity.	Analog or digital signal proportional to light intensity.	Automatic Lighting: Adjust indoor lighting based on ambient light. Smart Garden: Monitor sunlight exposure for plants.
Buzzer	Produces sound when electrical signal is applied.	Audible tone or beep.	Alerts: Audible alarms or notifications. Games: Provide sound effects in electronic games.
Fluid Pump	Moves fluids from one place to another.	Controlled flow of liquid.	Medical Devices: Control fluid delivery in medical treatments.' Watering Systems: Automate irrigation in gardens or greenhouses.
LCD Screen	Displays alphanumeric characters on a 16-column by 2-row screen.	Visual display of text and simple graphics.	Data Monitoring: Show system/sensor statuses. User Interfaces: Display information and interact with users.
FSR (Force Sensitive Resistor)	Measures force applied.	Resistance corresponding to the force applied.	Consumer electronics: Touch-sensitive controls. Robotics: Sense touch from robotic limbs.
Joystick Module	Provides directional control input.	Output: X and Y axis positions.	Gaming: Control game characters or vehicles. Robotics: Manual control of robotic arms or vehicles.
Ultrasonic Sensor	Measures distance using ultrasonic waves.	Distance measurement based on echo time.	Proximity Sensors: Detect the presence of objects or people. Level Measurement: Monitor liquid levels in tanks.
Bluetooth Module	Enables wireless communication between devices.	Wireless data transfer.	Remote Control: Operate devices remotely. Wireless Data Transfer: Send data between microcontrollers and smartphones Level Measurement: Monitor liquid levels in tanks.
CO2 Sensor	Measures carbon dioxide concentration in the air.	Analog signal proportional to CO2 levels.	Ventilation Control: Adjust ventilation systems based on CO2 levels. Greenhouse Management: Optimize conditions for plant growth.

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