The desktop computer case has always lacked the degree of mobility since its birth. Cases are also one of the biggest areas for customization for the consumer. The idea of building a case with mobility built in, limits the area of customization, thus the idea of building an additional component was thought of. The “cart” like design allows consumers to still choose from the wide range of cases, while also purchasing a cost effective “cart” that gives the case of their choosing a mobility factor. This freedom is given by using a contoured bottom with sled like tendencies, and a handle on the front to grab.
Assumptions :
My design is based off the assumption that everyone has a traditional rectangular computer case, that is located on the floor. The footprint of the case is also 8” x 13.50” within 1/2” in either direction.
Decision Matrix - Concepts Level :
This matrix is made up of the three concepts I previously came up with. I changed the weights to represent more accurately what I thought mattered the most in this project. Under the metrics tab I chose to use cost, user-friendliness, manufacturability, mass, and height. Cost and user-friendliness are weighted the heaviest, as the cart is made simply to add a budget friendly way to access your computer easier. Manufacturability is the next tier of weight, as the processes for how it is made can determine the end cost. The smallest weights are made of the mass and height. These two details are mostly important aspects when it comes to my idea of the design, but do not make a noticeably big difference in the end.
Module 1 or what I call the “Rail Sled” is a design made of wide rails. This is where the term rail sled comes from, as it has many similarities to an old fashion sled.
Module 2 is the “Snowboard”, and it has a closed concaved bottom, to promote sliding without losing any stability. The closed bottom also keeps any debris from the surface below it from getting pushed inside the computer case.
Module 3 the “Ski” is like module 1 except it has a sharper more abrasive bottom. This promotes sliding on different surfaces although it can possibly leave lasting damage to the wrong surface.
Working through the design process for the first time, has taught me the details and steps to complete a design in an organized way to achieve the best product possible. However, I think as I have been working through it for the first time, unable to see an exact end goal in sight, that I kind of got lost in the details. When I started this project, I had a vastly different idea of what my design was going to be. Working throughout this process to mee the goals of the project has caused me to make some decisions that I did not necessarily agree with when it came to direction of the design outcome. I think in the future once I can see the design process as a whole, due to my experience from this project, I would be less likely to manipulate my design just to fit the process, and more likely to use the process for the betterment of the design I have in my head.
Detailed and thorough. Your models turned out amazing! One thing I would possibly change is design your own third module, even if it is not as excellent as someone else’s.
I like your hinge design in your models. Your project very well thought out and organized exactly how the assignment wanted it to be. I would dive a little deeper into your equations and use a few more concepts learned in class.