Youtube link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wDMwVf5l9s

After attending the saturday sidekicks program, we got the opportunity to test our prototype with Andrew and a few of the other children. We noticed that many of the kids enjoyed using our prototype and the parents think our ideas are the best. There are some places where we still need to improve our project including: replacing the duct tape with hardware, covering the project so it is safe for all children, making a triggering mechanism, putting a hopper on it to hold multiple balls, attempt to make it wireless and a timer so a ball drops approximately every 30 seconds. We are going to meet with Andrew and his family to test the project and make sure that we can meet his specifications.

Wiring and zip ties

Motor with roller

Motor info

Our motors

Our balls

Our trigger

Our batteries

Our battery info

Project Progress

We have a design in mind and we are having the motors that power our wheels are being shipped to us from L.A. so we are waiting on those to begin the building or our project. We have drawn up our plans for the throwing machine and will have those for class today. We know our prototype is due within two weeks and we are hustling to get it done.

We are seeking to construct a throwing platform that allows disabled children to throw a ball with a simple push of a button. Our plan is to use alternating wheels that will propel the ball over 10 feet. We are planning to mount it to a stand that is easily transported or stored. We are attending sidekick meetings that allows us to get a better understanding of exactly what we need to construct. Our machine will be powered by 2 electric motors with each motor having its own seperate power supply. The machine will be user friendly and safe so the kids are not in any harm. The machine will shoot anywhere from 10 -30 feet and it will do so in a lobbing fashion. We plan to use soft rubber balls that can be loaded into a ball catch that can be semi automatically shot. The design we are using allows a quick response and easy loading capabilities. Users will be able to aim the device to the area of choosing whether they are sitting or standing. Our main goal for the project is to make sure the children have a safe and fun time.

delicious

Account URL for our delicious account is http://delicious.com/waverave21

Controllable Throwing Platform

Bryce, Jon, Chris, Kevin

Four students working to expand the throwing capabilities for a group of children who are unable to participate in throwing activities without assistance. We are very dedicated to this project and look forward to changing these children's lives.