ELEMENT E

SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CONCEPTS FOR RESEARCH

Math in precise measurements and conversions
Mechanical usage of the various parts
Physics of how the dog is balanced in the wheelchair and held in place comfortably

STEM PRINCIPLES

STEM Principle 1: Materials science

The connection to the project problem: Our team must analyze and find the right parts and materials to best support the dog and provide as much comfort as possible

Relation to design specifications: Our design must be strong yet flexible, light, and comfortable for the dog. Our product will need specific materials to fulfill all of these design goals. 

STEM Principle 2: Mechanics: spring and leverage physics

The connection to the project problem: A dog wheelchair is all about using physics to provide support for a dog. Finding balance between the apparatus and the dog and balance between the front and back of the dog are essential to success, so our team must find a way to leverage comfort in our design. Springy material can also provide additional support and flexibility, bringing even more comfort to the dog. 

Relation to design specifications: Our team has looked to incorporate a shock system to bring more comfort for the dog using the apparatus. We also want to use the leverage of the supports to try to balance the support for the front of the dog and allow our design to be without straps while supporting the dog well. We also want to implement spring systems into the legs to give the frame more flexibility and less chance for the dog to be jostled by diverse terrain. 

STEM Principle 3: CAD modeling

The connection to the project problem: 3D printed objects are very helpful in that they can be made to very specific criteria very cheaply and of a good material. These qualities are very important to a problem which has to function with living things, such as this one. 

Relation to design specifications: Our design must be very precise to help a dog walk easier, so we will use a lot of 3D printing to make sure our prototype is optimally demonstrated in its potential.

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POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT TO UTILIZE

3D Printer

Shock System

Various Cutting Tools for PVC Pipe