The Dirt Disruptor
Currently many people cleaning their car use equipment such as Machine Polishers to disrupt the dirt/debris within the fixed carpets to greatly improve the final result after the cleaning process. This is done by removing the polishing pad and attaching the Velcro to the fixed carpet. The machine polisher is then turned on and hence vibrates the fixed carpet dislodging the dirt/debris. This is detrimental to the expensive machine polisher and provides a very challenging user cycle.
The Dirt Disruptor is a rechargeable device that loosens and excites the dirt/debris within a car footwell, allowing for more efficient and effective vacuuming. This results in a cleaner car in less time.
The design process analysed various combinations of mechanisms and circuitry to generate the required level of vibration. Research, prototyping, user testing and experimental work generated significant insights for development. Thorough consideration of human factors, material selection, manufacturing processing and cost prompted the final design.
Components
The dirt disruptor consists of both mechanical and electronic components. The mechanical components were selected through practical tests using a test rig. The components include the two masses used and the Scotch Yoke mechanism.
The electronics components are selected to allow for safe simultaneous charging and discharging of Panasonic 18650 Li-ion batteries. This was done with manipulation of multiple TP4056 circuit boards.
The other objective of the electronic circuity is to provide the required current and voltage to the motor to work at the desired frequency. This is done via a DC-DC convertor and a Pulse Width Modulator. The other less influential components such as the DC barrel connector used to connect the charging cable were compared against multiple different options before being selected.
User Journey:
Cameron Marr
MEng
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