Reflect on your prototype. What were some strengths? What needs refinement?
Initially, I feared the laser cut process- whether the wooden stick would be able to fit perfectly and still be stabilized on the cutting platform. However, this unexpectedly worked out well, yet a struggle we are currently facing is how to allow it to spin. The reason behind this is not that the wooden stick was too tight, but in my opinion, because the convection current that allowed the figure to move was not strong enough.
We would like to fix this by attempting to increase the length of the string attached to the formation while also re-printing the figures in a smaller size. (if time allows!)
Furthermore, we infer that the object attached to the spinning platform is too heavy (taking the hot glue, string, and figures’ weight all into account) may also be another reason why it’s spinning.
Despite our misconceptions, the other parts went through successfully despite this failure. As previously mentioned, we were able to work well with the laser cut and construct all the pieces together.
Moreover, one thing that was significantly altered from our plan was the paper used for the outer case. Originally, we wanted it to be half-transparent so that the shadows of the figures could be seen. However, we could not find this type of paper, and it was too late to buy it online. Therefore, we decided to use transparent sheets, which still worked well
Front View
Feedback From Peers:
Judy: “I suggest increasing the thermal energy below so that there would be more convection pushing the air. I would also suggest maybe opening the top of the lantern or make a little more opened area on the top so that cold air can actually flow in, helping the convection to be completed.”
Lily: “A positive is that your plan was similarly applied to the real product. However, because it failed to spin, I suggest you to use lighter-weight materials so that it is easier to be moved. ”
Sophie: “Some design feedback or wonderings I have is that maybe a change in the material should be reconsidered. Also, if it really has worked, when the candle is lit, would it damage the plastic and wood around the sides? If so, is this product reusable? With paper, wood, and plastic around the flame, how would it be safe for your users, especially since the purpose is to help reduce stress?”
Candy: “I like your inspiration and concept of combining Chinese culture with ISB elements. However, a thing you should focus on is the convection current. I think you should allow the outer case to be more sealed so that the heat will not flow away.”
Summary of what was mentioned above:
- A conflicting idea of increasing the convection current by opening the lid, or sealing the lid.
- Reduce the weight of the materials
- Also, to answer Sophie’s question: No, the candles will not damage their surroundings because we have intentionally hot-glued their holder far away from the case; therefore, it is reusable. Also, we have also considered the safety issue, so we set our targetted audience to middle school users and above, whom we expect will safely work with fire.
Birds-eye View
Because our final class is set in our normal classroom, the things we could achieve were limited. Therefore, we could not make any changes. However, here are some changes we would like to implement if time allows.
- Remove the transparent paper on the lid to invite cold air in (creating a strong convection current)
- Increase the length of the string(easier for convection current to stimulate), while re-print the figures smaller(decrease weight)