DP #3: Whirl Window

👥 Customer Demographic 👥

Individuals with upper body mobility issues
Patients suffering from paralysis in the arms
Patients who have casts
Patients with neurological impairments that impact the function of their upper limbs (i.e., Parkinson’s, sensory issues, etc.)
Patients who have trouble using their arm due to limited dexterity

🎯 Project Objectives 🎯

🔧 Creating a Problem Definition 🔧

Objectives	Constraints	Function
Shouldn't cause any other harm, the device should be safe and stable to use	Must help the person complete tasks that increase accessibility	Shouldn’t require another person to help them do the task.
Should have a fail-safe for emergencies	Must be a painless device	Should have feedback for the user to know what the device is doing
Should be intuitive and accessible, for users with reduced dexterity	Must create a physical change in the environment using a sensor	Should provide remote or automated control

🔁 Design process 🔁

Timeline of the project and how long each step took

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In-Depth Timeline of The Whirl Window

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🪟 Whirl Window 🪟

This is the final iteration of the project present at the expo. It contains a linear actuator attached to a rack and pinion to open a window crack simulated by a moving gear.

Whirl Window is an automated device that compares temperatures and weather conditions to operate a linear actuator that opens a window. I was in charge of coding it, and I came up with the logic system that compares the inside temperature using a sensor, outside temperature using weather forecasts, and the preferred temperature using user interface. I compiled the code, organized it, and came up with the idea of Object-oriented programming to keep track of the status of the pi when printing information to the screen. I also suggested using WeatherStack API for outside forecast, package initialization to use multiple files, and GitHub to collaboratively work on the code. I was responsible for connecting the Raspberry Pi to my computer and testing the linear actuator to ensure that the prototype moved.

Topics Learned:

✅ Object Oriented Programming

✅ API Integration

✅ Modular Code

✅ Organization

✅ Version Control

Reflection and skills

📝 Independent Research Summary 📝

I wrote my independent research summary on engineering risks associated with Whirl Window. It taught me about the complexities involved in designing systems that are functional and safe. I learned that Risk management is a crucial component of engineering design since the product created is for the user and their safety is a top priority. It would be unethical to release a dangerous product to the public. This research is strengthened by awareness of the importance of risk assessment in engineering projects.