Garbage Disposal Cover
(Disposal Defense)
Product Development Project
Sep. 2024 - Dec. 2024
To learn and practice product development methods, in a four-person team at Northeastern, we developed a garbage disposal cover to prevent utensils from falling in. From user interviews, preference tests, and multiple down-selection processes, we engineered an injection moldable design incorporating one of Bernoulli's principles.
Skills:​
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Team Management and Conflict Resolution
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User Testing
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Pugh Matrices
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Preference Testing
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Solidworks CAD
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FDM 3D Printing
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Design for Injection Molding
To gauge interest for our idea, we framed a survey to potential users about what issues they commonly encountered with their garbage disposal. From this research, we gathered details to better generate a more useful solution.
Survey Responses
After sketching various concepts, we down-selected using various weighted Pugh Matrices and a Preference Test. In the test, we asked potential users what concept they preferred to use. We ultimately narrowed down to one concept.
Weighted Pugh Matrix - Scoring 1-7
Preference Test Results
Finalist Concept (Concept #6)
Bernoulli proved that the fastest path shape to descend is a cycloid; thus, using a parameterized set of equations, we designed two cycloidal ramps that successfully prevent utensils from falling in.
We then designed for it to be easily injection moldable by breaking it into two parts. We 3D printed the design and dropped knives and forks to validate it.
Injection Molded Assembly
Paths of Descent
3D Modeled Design
Tested Printed Design in Sink