User:Seconnelly13/ENES-100/Project Three/Here

Idea
Improve the existing big strandbeest to get it moving smoothly before the next section is added on.

Problem Statement
Find a way to prevent friction in the joints of the strandbeest to get them moving smoother.

Necessary system functions
Functions: Joints must move smoother.

System concepts
Concept: Create "washers" to place in between the joints for less friction.

Trade-offs among concepts
Trade off: Washer can be made out of anything.

Trade off: Using mylar instead of cut up cans.

Requirements for each element or component derived from system level goals and requirements
Requirements: Washer must be thin and smooth/slippery to create the least friction as possible between the components of the joints (i.e. particle board and PVC piping).

Alternatives in design
Alternative: Using Mylar as washers for strandbeest joints.

The initial design
Initial design: To use cut up cans as washers.

Experiment prototypes and tests need for design
Experiment prototype: Mylar washer.

Next Steps
Find and test objects as washers to see if there is less friction in the joints.

Creating a prototype mylar washer for the big strandbeest.

Create more mylar washers with specific dimensions to test on the big strandbeest joints.

Create a mechanism to measure the amount of friction in the movement of the strandbeest by attaching the mechanism to the crank shaft.