Objective:
In my second semester of Forge, the theme was "musical exploration". After some research and brainstorming, my teammates and I decided that we wanted to create a UV sanitization box for brass mouthpieces.
In my second semester of Forge, the theme was "musical exploration". After some research and brainstorming, my teammates and I decided that we wanted to create a UV sanitization box for brass mouthpieces.
I first brainstormed a list of roughly a dozen problems relating to the theme of music. After the team narrowed down to 5 possible problems, I conducted market research for products that solved similar problems and created initial sketches of potential solutions for each problem.
The team ultimately chose one of the problems that I listed, and I created a detailed sketch to base CAD models off of. I then modeled an initial design in SolidWorks. This design was then 3D printed, and I made revisions to the initial design based on the shortcomings of the print. This included switching to OTS hinges, adding heat insert screws, and adjusting the shape of the clasp. After these adjustments were made, I printed the design and ensured that all of the custom and OTS components fit together as intended.
Once the device was 3D printed and assembled, I soldered some of the electrical components together because we didn't want to include a breadboard due to size constraints. I also worked with the Computer Engineer to write the C++ code for the Arduino to ensure that the device functioned as intended.
In terms of branding, I created the name Mouthpiece Mate. The goal was to appeal to the younger audiences that it was intended for, and highlight what made this product unique - that it's designed for mouthpieces. I then designed the logo using Adobe Illustrator.
At the end of the semester, Forge held a showcase where each team presented their prototype and the process they took to make it. I presented the slides for the CAD development, since I was the primary mechanical engineer.
This project also introduced me to 3D printing, which I didn't know much about before. It really interested me, and inspired me to purchase my own 3D printer for future projects.
