Project 11: Feeding Device

Abstract

The project aims to design and build a spoon elevator that helps a person with a tremor in his hand to eat. Moreover, this elevator should allow the food to be transported comfortably and safely for the person.

Problem Statement

The problem we are solving is a person who suffers from a tremor in his hand and cannot control the spoon when eating. My colleagues and I decided to build a spoon elevator to help him eat through simple movements that do not require much effort.

Design Specifications

Easy to Use.
Stable Base.
Adjustable Height.
Secure Spoon Holder.
Easy to Clean.
Appealing Design.

Background Research

1- Robotic aids:

Provides the freedom for the user to control their dining experience
Lightweight build makes it ideal for transport anywhere you dine
modern design provides a visually appealing assistant
Plate and utensils are dishwasher-safe for convenient sanitization
Intuitive controls enable easy operation with minimal effort or interruption
Price: 8000$

2-Manual aids:

Provides the arm support you need for eating independently
The device is height, and angle adjustable includes an optional roof attachment for extra support
Supports the upper extremity during the self-feeding process from plate to mouth
Guides your arm and lessens the amount of muscle strength needed for self-feeding
Smoothly guides the arm while moving plate to mouth
Price: 1000$

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Concept Design 1

Manual Module

The device is designed to move up and down using gears. When the gears turn, they lift a part of the device, and when they turn the other way, they lower it. To operate, turn the handle right to raise the part and left to lower it.

Concept Design 2

Basic Module

The device is fixed to the table and is operated by hand. You can control it manually by pressing buttons or turning knobs to make it work. It stays in place on the table and doesn’t move.

Concept Design 3

Power Module

Selected Concept Design

With these three designs in mind, we decided to go with the Power Module design. There were several reasons behind this decision. The first is the ease of use as the user only needs to press the buttons to control the device. Second, it is a very simple device that can deliver power with flexibility and minimal effort.

Decision Matrix

Describe Design Details

Plate Holder:
The plate holder is positioned centrally and has a curved base to securely hold a plate in place.
Extendable Spoon:
Located above the plate holder is an extendable mechanism, possibly for a spoon or similar utensil. This part is responsible for extending towards the plate to scoop food and retracting to deliver the food to the user.
Control Board:
On the left side of the base, a control board is shown. This is likely where the user or caretaker can manage the device’s functions.
Base Structure:
The entire system is mounted on a stable base, which supports both the plate holder and the extendable mechanism. The base ensures that the device remains steady during operation and provides a solid foundation for all moving parts.
Power Section:
To the right, there is a labeled “Battery/Dynamo” area, which houses the power source for the device. This component powers the extendable arm of the feeding station.

Engineering Analysis 1

Our first engineering analysis aimed to determine how efficiently the motor could lift the maximum weight before it failed or broke while moving the spoon. We used the torque formula to find the maximum weight. Therefore, if we use a 12V motor, the weight should be less than 4 kg before it fails. This prevent damage to the motor and ensures it works within its intended capacity. This approach leads to better durability and efficiency in our project.

Engineering Analysis 2

We discovered an issue with our design where the spoon could only lift solid food. As a result, we identified two potential solutions to create a spoon that can effectively scoop both solid foods and liquids, such as soup.

Option 1: A spoon with a rotating mechanism, primarily intended for solid foods. The rotation is designed to help manage or retain the food in the spoon during use.
Option 2: A specially designed spoon with a deeper, curved shape, which is better suited for holding liquids. The emphasis on the curvature prevents spilling, making it more effective for scooping soup.