College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 4
College of Engineering
Department - Author 4
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in Mechanical Engineering
Date
6-2024
Primary Advisor
Hyeonik Song, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This report details the final design, manufacturing and assembly, testing procedures and results, as well as future design recommendations of a device aimed at enhancing the mountain biking experience for individuals with limited thumb strength. This project particularly focused on the experience of our sponsor, Cal Poly Mechanical Engineering Professor Andrew Kean. Our team's objective was to create a secure, ergonomic handlebar grip system that does not require thumb strength and is adaptable to various mountain bike models. The final design utilizes a rigid hook that snaps onto mountain bike handlebars with a long, flat piece that slides into a pocket of a modified wrist brace. Notable design changes include the removal of the glove attachment and velcro strap presented in CDR, and the implementation of a modified wrist brace. Our manufacturing process was quick and cost-effective since we utilized Mustang 60’s Markforged 3D printer with Carbon Fiber Nylon (Onyx) filament, an off-the-shelf wrist brace, and an off-the-shelf mountain bike grip. Qualitative testing was done by our sponsor, Andrew Kean, as well as a group of experienced mountain bikers. The participants ran through a series of four tests while our team recorded verbal feedback regarding our main specifications: thumb strength needed, attachment and detachment, comfortability, and safety. Our participants concluded that the device was able to meet all of the specifications and they gave suggestions as well. The report concludes with a discussion on the design process and recommendations to improve the final prototype. Overall, our product is successfully designed to enable the end user, Andrew Kean, to comfortably mountain bike without relying on the strength of his left thumb.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/759
Project Video
ME_S2024_F72_Poster.pdf (1478 kB)
Project Poster
ME_S2024_F72_SOW.pdf (6022 kB)
Scope of Work
ME_S2024_F72_PDR.pdf (21420 kB)
Preliminary Design Review
ME_S2024_F72_CDR.pdf (6006 kB)
Critical Design Review
ME_S2024_F72_Drawings.pdf (1160 kB)
Drawing Package