PROTOTYPING
To get the prototype there was a lot of stress trials and design adaptations to come up with the final shape. The prototype was done using sheet metal of 1.5mm and laser cutting all the parts, additional processes such as welding, and spot welding were used to join parts. The closing mechanism is done by using a wire connecting each pedal, that way when the first pedal is closed the rest follow. This first petal then stays up using magnets.
PROTOTYPE 1.0
After the design phase was completed, a final design and model for the prototype was achieved. The individual parts were then laser cut and bent into shape to create the actual prototype of the design.
The initial design used simple rectangular steps and piano hinges to connect them to the mounting platform, this design proved rather unstable and could not withstand much weight as the hinges would bend and ultimately fail; The steps were redesigned to be taller [image of triangle steps] to allow them to more easily put on weight. (See pictures above).
The hinges were changed altogether to door hinges that are much sturdier and stronger [hinges with steps]. Using scrap metal, the design was replicated and tested by putting the whole weight of a human stepping on it with minimal support. This test did not bend the steps nor the hinges but did bend the plate they were welded on proving that the design was indeed an improvement.
The new adjustments were then implemented in the design, and then it was painted to match the design of the co-designer's bike. The prototype was tried on one of the group’s bikes with the weights to replicate the child, the prototype withstood the test and was complete, the last thing remaining being the actual final test with the co-designer and her child.
