This week we returned to the FabLab. We continued to familiarize ourselves with all the tools and tech the lab has to offer. We specifically learned a vector editing software called Inkscape. Through this workshop we learned how to create basic shapes, manipulate them, and produce more. After learning the basics of the software we learned to transform images into vector graphics. These skills were then applied to a customized watch. The watch is a device that allows patients who have to do bicep curls and rotation in wrist during rehabilitation. The base of the watch consist of 3 wooden circles, two of which have rectangles on each side. I thought it would be help patients if the watch had small arrow indications of which way the device goes. The top layer rotates, so I designed an arrow pointing in the direction of proper rotation.
After this we moved into sewing. Unlike most of my peers I have experienced sewing. My sophomore year I sewed a jacket with a sleeping bag attachment completely from scratch. So during the tutorials and walkthroughs I was a couple steps ahead. We all picked the fabrics we wanted our wristband for the watch to be and then cut it to scale. We sew it right sice in and sewed the seam. This created the sort of sack like appearance of the band. Getting it right side out was a hassle, it required us to use these thin wooden rods to pull the fabric through. We finished up by attaching velcro strips to the band to ensure a comfortable and secure fit to the wrist.
The second half of class each group presented to Milestone Labs and Adam Bleakney. We’ve made a lot of progress since last speaking with them. We got a lot of insight from this conversation. We realized we hadn’t thought everything thoroughly. Our design is solid but we have to really hone in on the attachment aspect of it. The overall ease of use should be convenient for the user. They also asked a lot of questions regarding materials of our device. We are currently scheduling a time to interview a material science professor here at the university. This week I have scheduled a virtual interview with my physical therapy. We also have a meeting this monday with my professor who handmakes shoes. We plan to do a bunch more research structured around our opportunity and project idea.
Hey Trevor,
The jacket that you made sophomore year seems very impressive. I personally believe that everyone should take time to learn how to sew because it is a skill that can come in handy. I also think it’s great that your team is reaching out to other mentors across campus. In doing that I believe your team will get a lot of great insight. I look forward to seeing your final project!
Hi Trevor,
I remembered the red jacket you made during sophomore year and I thought it was really well crafted. I can’t wait to see more of those craftsmanship in this project as well! I am not sure what you guys are making, but if you are going for fabric material, I would highly recommend touring Joann as a group. Maybe you guys can do it after you interviewed the Material Science professor. Then just buy a lot of fabric and just experiment with them. For an example, your experiment can be based on the best cushion material. But, I like how you guys are heading towards the right track. Keep up the good work!
Hi Trevor! I also enjoyed my second week at FabLab and had a great time learning how to put together circuits. I found it fascinating how the tilt sensor works and how they can be minimized into something that can fit inside our phone. I am disappointed I have not yet had the opportunity to sew. hoping I have the chance to do that as we finish our watches on Wednesday.