Tues27 p4 Designreport

Project Four – Power in Community
ENGINEER 1P13 – Integrated Cornerstone Design Projects
Tutorial 05
Team 27
Amine Hassine(hassinem)
Kyle McMaster (mcmask2)
Kevin Bird (birdk6)
Emilia Pisic (pisice)
Pritika Thevakanthan (thevakap)
Submitted: April 14, 2021

1P13 DP-4 Final Report Tutorial 05 Team 27
Table of Contents
1.0 Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 The Problem ..................................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 The Solution ..................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 The Benefits ..................................................................................................................................... 6
1.4 The Future ........................................................................................................................................ 6
2.0 Introduction........................................................................................................................................ 6
2.1 Relevant background Information.................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Refined Problem Statement .............................................................................................................. 6
2.3 Objectives and Constraints ............................................................................................................... 7
2.4 Existing Ideas/Solutions ................................................................................................................... 7
3.0 Conceptual Design ............................................................................................................................. 9
3.1 Ideation ............................................................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Design Alternatives .......................................................................................................................... 9
3.3 Design Evaluation ............................................................................................................................ 9
4.0 Final Proposed Design ..................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Specifications of Design................................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Final Drawings ............................................................................................................................... 11
4.3 Discussion of Objectives/Constraints ............................................................................................ 12
4.4 Materials and Assembly ................................................................................................................. 13
5.0 Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................ 16
5.1 Looking Ahead ............................................................................................................................... 16
5.2 Reflection on Team Dynamic ........................................................................................................ 16
5.3 Concluding Statements ................................................................................................................... 16
Appendices
1.0 Research and Evaluation ................................................................................................................ 18
2.0 The Decision and Preliminary Process .......................................................................................... 29
3.0 The Final Product ............................................................................................................................ 49
4.0 Planning ............................................................................................................................................ 67
5.0 Source Materials Database ............................................................................................................. 69
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Academic Integrity Statement

The student is responsible for performing the required work in an honest manner, without plagiarism
and cheating. Submitting this work with my name and student number is a statement and understanding
that this work is my own and adheres to the Academic Integrity Policy of McMaster University.
Amine Hassine 400232808
Emilia Pisic 400319166
Kevin Bird 400309480
Pritika Thevakanthan 400328543
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Kyle McMaster 400328819
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1.0 Executive Summary

1.1 The Problem
Our client lives with several conditions that can make their life difficult and exhausting. These
conditions restrict their freedom to pursue and create the art that enriches their quality of life. Our goal
is to develop a system to make the clients workspace more adaptable and less tiring, while keeping
safety, comfort, and ease of use in mind.
1.2 The Solution
We designed an easel purpose-built to adapt to the positions our client enjoys painting in.
Figure 3.1.0 Final Model
The system allows the canvas to be positioned in a variety of pre-set positions designed to
accommodate the ways the client moves to stay comfortable while working. The product is meant to be
unintrusive to her current methods of painting, and only provide an easier method to an action she does
throughout a day of painting.
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1.3 The Benefits
A typical easel that our client would make use of currently has minimal adjustments and are
meant to be used the same way throughout their time of use. The client often moves her canvas through
different heights and angles to facilitate painting while sitting, kneeling, or laying down. With a
traditional canvas the client would have to carry the canvas around, which could be dangerous or
unwieldly, as they often work on larger projects. Our product provides a safer and less energy-intensive
solution.
1.4 The Future
Provided an opportunity to review the design with the client personally, we would cater the
dimensions, materials, and capabilities of the product to their height, budget, and workspace to ensure
the product works for the client, rather than against. More time and resources would allow us to build
full prototypes of the system and assess their full functionality and gain feedback from the client.
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Relevant background Information
Our client has multiple conditions that physically limits her during her day-to-day activities.
Conditions such as breast cancer, lymphedema, Spondylarthritis, and fibromyalgia, that causes physical
and mental pain which is a hindrance for anything she does. One of the activities the client enjoys
doing the most is painting, but due to these conditions, she can only do it for short periods. Research
was conducted about medical conditions, specifically how artists can adapt. As seen in Figure 1.6.0 in
Appendix 1, we identified an artist who specifically had Arthritis and were able to understand his
limitations and solutions. Additionally, our client cannot remain static during these working periods, as
doing so causes additional pain. The client would like to paint for longer periods and to feel less
physical pain doing it.
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2.2 Refined Problem Statement
In order to help the client, our group defined this following problem statement:
To design and create a multifunctional, easy to use, safe and comfortable solution to give the
client more consistent access to the things she loves despite having physical challenges in her current
environment, especially for prolonged periods while working in her studio.
2.3 Objectives and Constraints
Our design had multiple objectives. One of these objectives is safety, because it is important that
our design does not harm our client and make her life harder. Also, because she has kids who can be
vulnerable. The next objective is multifunctionality, because the client moves a lot while working; she
does not like to remain in the same position for long periods of time. The design needed to be able to
follow her movements and not slow her down. Another important objective is consistency, her
conditions make her life unpredictable, so we want our solution to give her more consistent access to
the things she loves. As constraints, we had to reduce the cost of the design as much as possible, so it is
reasonable to be bought by an individual. But also, it must be small enough to fit in the available space
of the client’s studio.
2.4 Existing Ideas/Solutions
We searched and evaluated multiple existing ideas to help inspire a new, better suited solution.
Some solutions such as compression sleeves and shoulder support did not require any modification
since they already meet the needs of the client and changing them would not make a significant
improvement. In fact, modifying a compression sleeve would make it less efficient. Our design takes
inspiration from a regular easel that will be modified and adjusted to the client’s specifications, so that
it will be more personal and effective.
2.4.1 Patents
While conducting research, we were able to identify a patent for an easel-like structure, shown
in Appendix 1.1. This is a stand for tablets, e-readers, or other electronics. It attaches to a keyboard and
allows for the tablet to move in multiple positions, had easy adjustments, and a sufficient locking
mechanism. We took inspiration from the functionality as explored how the device can freely move
into the preferred position of the user. We implemented this in our design ensuring the easel we would
create could move in the positions the client would prefer.
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Additionally, we were able to identify the use of a keyboard or keypad to control movements as
beneficial. It would eliminate the need of lifting or adjustments done by the client. The use of saved
pre-sets ensures the client can remember the position of the easel that would best suit her given the
limitation that day. The patent provided adjustments and settings are beneficial given the
unpredictability of her condition.
2.4.2 Commercial Products

In further exploration during the prototype stage, through implementing feedback, we decided to
research existing concepts or devices that would have beneficial elements. We were able to discover
the X-Y Easel, as shown in Figure 1.2.1 Appendix 1.2. This easel allows free movement in the vertical
and horizontal direction. The easel is motorized and can be controlled with a remote. It is mounted onto
a wall and the remote will move the canvas around.
We believed that this product would be beneficial to our client however it still had some
disadvantages. As a group we agreed that our client should be able to use her easel in multiple locations
in her studio. We consider multifunctionality as an objective and our easel should prioritize this.
Allowing the client to place the easel in any location and use it in multiple positions would achieve the
multifunctional goal. The X-Y Easel needs to be mounted and the movements are limited. The setup of
the easel would be semipermanent, as simple adjustments could propose new issues. Simply using a
bigger canvas would require the easel to be mounted higher or lower onto the wall.
The X-Y Easel remote is very easy to use and has clear indicating symbols for the corresponding
adjustments. We decided our keypad would have visual position indicating symbols as shown in Figure
1.2.2. This provides a straightforward solution and would allow the client to avoid manual adjustments.
3.0 Conceptual Design

3.1 Ideation
We began to evaluate the client’s criteria for a functional lifestyle. The client expressed her love
of painting and how her limitations caused a big roadblock in her continuation. A morphological chart
was used to create possible help for her limitations (Figure 2.1). This chart allowed us to generate ideas
on how we can decrease strain, need for rest, and increase comfort and ease while painting. We came
up with many different ideas including exoskeleton, a new means to hold the brush or including
temperature or compression regulation. Overall, we were able to evaluate the elements that would be
most advantageous to multiple functionality purposes. This was an adjustable or automatic easel.
As the brainstorming process continued, we created initial sketches of various concept designs.
From this stage we were able to evaluate how realistic and practical each design would be to
implement. Additionally, we examined which would most benefit our client.
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3.2 Design Alternatives
The decision making continued as each of us narrowed our focus onto one design we would
prototype. We personally examined which design we would be able to properly implement to help our
client. After creating our prototypes, the group was able to meet and have a discussion onto the
elements of each design that would be beneficial or possible alternatives. This generated a discussion
on combining elements of each design that we believed should be include. We implemented our own
feedback as a group prior to the design review to ensure our feedback would be focused on details we
cannot see for ourselves. After we decided to move forward with the adjustable easel, we included a
button system for adjustments from Kyle’s design (Figure 2.4.5).
3.3 Design Evaluation
In the adjustable easel we discussed alternative methods of how to adjust. We prioritized

eliminating reliance of heavy lifting or work the client would need to do to successfully use the easel
on a daily basis. Taking this into consideration we decided a motor, remote and program would best
suit the automatic functions of the easel. Alternative methods included a pulley system, hand crank or a
linkage system. All these required too much heavy work for the client. We discussed our ideas with the
TAs and IAIs and they provided insight on design roadblocks. We were able to evaluate the back rail of
our initial prototype to be a safety hazard.
Furthermore, we were reliant on the feedback from science students. We ensured that before the
design review we had presented an idea that had implemented our own groups feedback first. We
explained our design and its working components and received ideas on how to improve. Our biggest
decision was eliminating the back rail and the feedback allowed us to brainstorm possible ideas of
including a linkage system, pulley, or spring mechanism. However, we best decided to provide a
protective cover over the rail.
Overall, the feedback was able to direct our attention to safety issues or functionality
disturbances that we would be unaware of if we were to continue. Our design was improved through
stages of decision making, evaluation and discussion and allowed us to provide a functional and
practical design.
4.0 Final Proposed Design
4.1 Specifications of Design
The proposed design consists of two solutions: a motorized adjustable easel and the Python
program which controls the motors. These two components will work together to ensure the client can
position the canvas where it is comfortable for them without any physical exertion.
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4.1.1 The Easel

The Easel was designed to allow the client to comfortably adjust between the different positions
the client uses while painting. The angle of the painting surface and the height of the painting surface
can be adjusted independently. These adjustments are made using a series of DC motors. The angle of
the painting surface is controlled by one motor found behind the painting surface. The height of the
surface is controlled by two motors working in tandem on the back rail. The motors are connected to a
conveyer belt which is connected to the piece gliding along the rail. The back rail is covered with a
plastic shell to protect the parts from damage and to reduce the risk of the client tripping.
4.1.2 The Control System

The Easel’s position is controlled with a Python program running on a RaspberryPi. Every time
the Easel is powered on, the program reads the current position of the motors from a text file. It then
waits for an input from the user’s control panel. The client can use the control panel shown in figure
3.1.1 to make the adjustments they would like to. The client first presses the “NUM” key to begin
accepting inputs. This is a safety feature to prevent accidental movements of the Easel. The client then
presses the button corresponding to the adjustment they would like to make. The client can change their
mind about an adjustment without concern; the program will only move to the last inputted adjustment.
When the client is ready, they press the “ENTER” key and the program will begin making the
adjustment. The program reads the input and compares it to a list of pre-sets found in a text file. It then
calculates how long to power each motor for, based on the motors current position and its desired final
position. The RaspberryPi then sends power to the corresponding motor controller for the duration of
that time. It also tells the motor which direction it should rotate. When the motor is finished, it updates
the file containing the positions of the motors with its new position.
From the client’s point of view, they simply press the “NUM” key and see the green light. Next,
they press the key for their desired adjustment, and then the “ENTER” key. That is all that is required
to make an adjustment.
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4.2 Final Drawings
Figure 3.1.0 Figure 3.1.1
Figure 3.3
4.3 Discussion of Objectives/Constraints
The device has several objectives that a successful design must work towards. An optimal
design would exceed expectations in each of the following objectives. The client also has some
constraints for the device that must be met. The client has a limited budget and studio space. A
successful design must meet the minimum requirements for these constraints.
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4.3.1 Multifunctional
The client moves around a lot while working in her studio. The solution must be able to adjust to
any position the client would like. The metric chosen for this objective is the number of settings or
modes the design can switch between. The easel has 4 pre-set angles of the painting surface and four
pre-set heights. The angle and height are independent, giving the easel a total of 16 different positions
(figure 3.1.1). This satisfies the requirement, as it increases the current number of positions the client
can position their canvas, which is currently around five. The canvas can also be replaced with a flat
plane to be used as a work surface with an adjustable height.
4.3.2 Easy to Use

The device must be easy to use without extensive explanation or a long manual. The controls
should be intuitive without extensive text. The metric chosen for this objective is the number of words
found on the controls and on the Easel. The control panel has a total of 2 words, “NUM” and
“ENTER”. These words were not replaced with symbols as doing so may decrease clarity. All the other
buttons on the control panel have images representing the adjustment they will make to the Easel. The
Easel has warning labels on potential pinch points. These warning labels will also have words on them,
as to ensure safe operation. This objective is satisfied, as the Easel can still be operated easily without
additional words. The only remaining words either enhance clarity or safety.
4.3.3 Safe
It is essential that the solution does not make the client’s situation any worse. To ensure the
device does not harm the user, safety is considered throughout every aspect of the design. The metric
chosen for safety is the number of sharp edges or pinch points. To eliminate sharp edges, every corner
and edge will be rounded. Some potential pinch points are necessary for the Easel to function. There
are approximately 8 places potential pinch points on the Easel. To reduce the risk, several protective
measures have been incorporated into the design. There are colored indicators and warning labels
marking points of the device that could move, be unsafe to rest on, or unsafe to grab when moving
the canvas. Force feedback on the motors will stop the easel from moving if anything goes wrong. The
easel’s back rail is covered by a round plastic shell, making it less of a tripping hazard. It also protects
the back rail from damage, as that is a potentially fragile part. The control panel also requires the user
to press the “NUM” key and wait for the green light before accepting inputs. When they are ready to
make an adjustment, the user can press the “ENTER” key. All these features help reduce the risk of
accidents.
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4.3.4 Consistency
The client has conditions which can make their life very unpredictable. The design should
increase the predictability in their life and give them more consistent access to the things they love. The
objective is to decrease the start up energy required to paint, measured in the time and effort required to
get the canvas to a position where the client can paint comfortably. The adjustable easel can adjust
from any position to any other position with a maximum of two adjustments. These adjustments would
require 6 key presses and under 2 minutes. Though it is hard to know if this is sufficient for the client
without further testing, it certainly makes it easier to adjust the canvas to a comfortable position. The
designers expect it will at least provide additional painting time on days when the client is already able
to paint and hope it will increase the number of those days.
4.3.5 Cost
The client has a set income and budget. If the cost of the Easel is too high, the client will not be
able to purchase the Easel and it will not add any value to her life. The client has not set a budget, so
the maximum price is not defined. Therefore, the constraint became an objective to provide the most
benefit for the lease cost. The main expense of the Easel is the material, which is discussed further in
section 4.4. The two material finalists are Aluminum and Carbon Fibre. The Carbon Fibre decreased
the weight of the Easel, but at a much higher cost. The benefits of Carbon Fibre did not outweigh the
additional cost. The estimated final cost of the Easel is $773.50 (Table 3.4.0).
4.3.6 Size
The Easel must fit within the client’s studio space. The client has an additional 4 x 7 foot space
between the current easel and the desk. The additional space the Easel takes up over the client’s current
easel must not be greater than that space. The Easel has a footprint of about 2.5m by 1m, or about 8 x 4
feet, which is comparable to most other easels. The Easel will fit into the space the client has without
significant adjustments, meaning it satisfies the constraint.
4.4 Materials and Assembly
4.4.1 Material Selection

When selecting a material, several attributes were considered. The easel had to be rigid enough
to support its own weight and withstand the additional stresses applied during operation. The material
must also not weigh too much for the floor in the client’s studio. The final solution must not damage its
surroundings. The Easel is mostly stationary and would not reasonably be moved around by the client.
This means the weight does not have to be light enough to carry. In fact, the Easel must also be heavy
enough to be stable during operation and have no risk of tipping over. The material must also not cost
too much, as discussed in section 4.3.5. When comparing materials, Young’s modulus, Density, and
Price are the most important metrics.
With all these considerations in mind, the two finalist materials are Aluminum and Carbon
Fibre. Carbon Fibre has a higher Young’s modulus and a lower Density, meaning it has more rigid
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strength for a lower weight. However, this improved performance comes with a much higher price tag.
The difference in price between Aluminum and Carbon Fibre is around CAD $45/ kg. The increased
price is too much for our client, especially when Aluminum will perform the task. (Figure 3.4.1) [2]
This table contains the important metrics of the two finalist materials.
4.4.2 Device Construction

The main frame of the Easel is made from several independent parts. The Aluminum parts in the
frame will be cast and machined where necessary. The Centre Bar (Figure 3.2.4) and legs (Figure
3.2.5) will be welded together before transport. The other parts will be assembled onsite as it would be
too heavy to transport otherwise. The plastic shell will also be made using a mold. There are also
additional electrical components attached to the Easel. The additional components will be assembled
onsite.
The goal with the construction is to make the parts sturdy while minimizing additional cost. In
the cost analysis in section 4.4.4, there is a $500 budget for manufacturing the Easel. This value could
change depending on community involvement. Ideally, we would work with a community sponsor to
reduce costs.
4.4.3 Additional Components

The Easel requires three DC motors, motor controllers, a RaspberryPi, USB number pad, and
wires. These components will be sourced from the vendor with the best price. They are too complicated
to manufacture.
4.4.4 Cost Analysis

The total cost includes the cost for the material, the additional components, and the
manufacturing costs. The following table is an estimation of the cost for manufacturing an Aluminum
easel (Table 3.4). Most of the cost comes from manufacturing the parts. To minimize the cost of the
Easel, methods of reducing the cost to manufacture the easel will be explored.
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Item Quantity Cost Description

Control Panel 1 $7.00 no battery required, USB power number pad
Raspberry Pi 1 $120.00 runs the program that allows remote control
controls the back leg and angle to allow
DC Motors 3 $7.80 adjustments
6V Battery 2 $25.98 attaches to the motors as a power source
allows motors to be controlled by Pi
Motor Driver 2 $29.90 (minimizes use of wires)
the body will be made completely out of
Aluminum 25.98kg $82.09 Aluminum
Total (without
manufacturing costs) $273.50
Manufacturing Costs ~ $500 assumption based on labour costs
Total $773.50
Table 3.4
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5.0 Conclusion
5.1 Looking Ahead
While we had the opportunity to come up with an excellent final prototype, there were a few
things as clarified in previous sections that we could have improved with additional time. In the future,
when we have more time on our hands, we would build the physical prototype with the materials
necessary which includes motors, Raspberry Pi and the easel from our CAD design. We would
program the system so the canvas has a variety of pre-set positions the client can adjust using a control
panel. This would be done using motors which can be programmed with a raspberry pi and the
programming software python. We have programmed the software, but we need the easel body and
motors to finish our final prototype.
In addition, if given more time, we wanted to conduct trials with our physical prototype on
clients who have similar physical problems. We could use our future testing plan to perform the
experiments. Our future testing plan would require the physical prototype because it would allow for
client usage, interaction, and feedback. In future testing, safety would be evaluated by having different
clients interact with the device and propose their concerns. We would record any feedback based on
their level of comfort so that we would fine-tune our model. We would monitor and test how our model
is easy to use and multifunctional by testing the number of different settings and modes the device has
using the control panel so we could be sure our assumptions were correct, and our product is as
versatile as we had expected.
5.2 Reflection on Team Dynamic
Our group had an overall excellent team dynamic, as we were able to quickly delegate
responsibilities to one another and complete our tasks within the given time frames. There were some
issues along the way. We had to choose between many excellent prototypes for our final prototype. Our
group had some difficulty narrowing down the final prototype that best addresses our objects and
problem statement. This project was unique in the sense that it was open-ended we had to come up with
a solution of our own for our client.
The design process began with coming to an initial problem statement. Next, we used both the
how/why ladder and objective for future development of this project with the specific and easy flow of
ideas. We then came up with objectives and their designated metrics. We outlined a project plan where
we described each team member’s prior experience with physical and software prototyping. We
gathered research on the client’s conditions and then performed a functional analysis. The design tool
we chose was a morphological chart rather than a decision matrix. We felt this design tool was the most
ideal choice as we approached our solution considering multiple elements to provide a multifunctional
design. On the other hand, a decision matrix would not help us identify specific concepts to decide
between in the beginning stages. Following our functional analysis, each team member then came up
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with a couple of concept sketches. Each team member then created an initial refined prototype of their
preferred sketch. After this, we used a decision matrix to us in choosing two concepts to proceed with
to our design review. Looking back, our group spent a lot of time deciding between our top two
concepts to present for our design review. Our group should have spent less time deciding the top two
concepts and instead start planning what the final prototype might be. This would have saved us a
significant amount of time and as a team, we could have discussed and determined what we needed to
do.
After the design review, we were able to decide on the final refined prototype to be used for the
project and this was decided based on the comments received from the peer design review. We decided
on the adjustable easel to be our final prototype with some adjustments to be made. The concept went
from a rudimentary toy device into a dynamic CAD assembly. As a team, we efficiently delegated
tasks as half the team worked on the testing plan and the other half worked on the CAD assembly for
our final prototype. With the feedback received from the second design review, we were able to refine
our device to be best suited for our client. We then worked together to help complete the presentation.
Overall, the design process was great with some adjustments to be made. In any future group time
process, to efficiently complete the project at hand we should delegate all the tasks efficiently and
follow through with instructions to save more time.
5.3 Concluding Statements
Overall, Project 4 is an insight to real-life projects. This project has helped build our
understanding of engineer-client relations. Our group was able to come up with a unique and creative
solution for this open-ended project. We were able to finalize the concept we believe is best-suited
solution for our client. We look forward to future innovations and will continue to practice the skills
gained from this Project experience.
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List of Sources:
[1] “Autodesk Inc, Inventor, California, US, 2020”
[2] Ansys Granta EduPack software, Granta Design Limited, Cambridge, UK, 2020
(www.grantadesign.com).
[3] A. Kibbe, "The Organizational Structures of Apathy: A Study in Resistance", In a Power Failure,
[online]. Available: https://inapowerfailure.com/#jp-carousel-355
[4] A. Kibbe, "Let the Garden In", In a Power Failure, [online]. Available:
https://inapowerfailure.com/#jp-carousel-187
[5] TNTPredarno, "Mannequin Female", Solid Model. Available: https://sketchfab.com/3d-
models/mannequin-female-5e9898a1ac2048d89fbcdfdb55f8c6b0
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Appendices
1.0 Research and Evaluation
1.1 Patents
Figure 1.1.0
Reference:
G. Fontana and M. Esecson, “STAND AND DRAWING-EASELATTACHED TO A KEYBOARD TO USE WITH
MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES ,” 10-May-2016.
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1.2 Commercial Products
Figure 1.2.2
Figure 1.2.1
Reference:
Ted@teddillard.com, “The Essential Tools: the x-y Easel,” The Atelier Print, 02-Mar-2019. [Online]. Available:
http://www.atelierprint.org/2018/08/09/the-essential-tools-the-x-y-easel/. [Accessed: 13-March-2021].
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1.3 Objective Tree
Figure 1.3.0
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1.4 How/Why Ladder
Figure 1.4.0
1.5 Client Meeting Notes
1.5.1 First Client Meeting – Individual Notes
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Emilia Pisic
Figure 1.5.1.0 Figure 1.5.1.1
Figure 1.5.1.2
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Kevin Bird
Figure 1.5.1.3
Amine Hassine
Figure 1.5.1.4
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Pritika Thevakanthan
Figure 1.5.1.5
Kyle McMaster
- Spiritual
• Gets tired after a while
• Favourite painting Frida Kahlo “painted her torso exposed with metal holding her together,
visceral “ Frida Kahlo inspired her
- One time she painted in her bed just lying down
- Favourite of hers is “hope cocoon” do not fight healing – resilience
- Makes art – cannot do it for super long arm gets tired
• Started in 2017
• Focus on healing through her body
• Thinks about painting all the time
• Sculpture
• Brazilian jujitsu
• Yoga and meditation (is ok to not be ok)
• 2019 art exhibition – took 8 months
• Wants to work with smaller brushes and detail – finds it hard to do so
• Acrylic on canvas (prefers large canvas)
• Oil paint + cold wax
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• Found object sculpture (wire staples and metal)

- Thick brushes are easier to hold (but not as good for detail)
- Sometimes works on the floor and on meditation pillows (moves around a lot and quickly)
- Has to hold own arm when working
- Paints for whole day or like 20 mins
- Can write with chalk with good dexterity
- For her art is about learning to live
- Embedded “survival” into early work
- Hold big brushes with whole palm
- Supports arm at forearm, close to wrist
- Wants to hold it like a pen
- Actually holds it like a fork kind of
- When holding wrist she goes on floor
- Leans on canvas and uses stool to hold up canvas
- If tired keeps getting lower to the ground until lying on the ground
- Palette is not used because its just one more thing to carry
- Instead she just uses small jars with the paint in it
- Midwifery – passionate about making world in better condition than she entered it in (work of the
heart)
- Autoimmune disorder – cannot work anymore
• Cannot predict what it will be like when she wakes up each day
• Access to the things she loves brings her comfort (easier to paint)
• Arthritis (sit or stand for long time)
• Lymphedema in arms and trunk (weightbearing issues)
• Medical devices (compression sleeves) when lifting
• Fibromyalgia (pain in muscles particularly in hands)
• Forearm gets on fire when tired
• Hand gets spasms gets difficult to hold brushes
• Upper arm struggles with weight bearing
• If she over works she may be in bed for several days
• Sometimes just sits in her meditation space (5mins to 3 hours)
• Sometimes can bike forever and do squats and stuff
- Car accident – developed breast cancer
- Day to day activities
- Bending at the waist – claws don’t work for smaller items
- Kids turn assistance devices into toys/ games (broke claw, try to steal heat bracelet)
- Loading dishwasher sucks – so does hand washing
- Food prep – she cannot cut squash
- She is veggie + vegan
- Some times just throws everything in a blender – keeps breaking it lmao
- Sometimes struggles opening jars (easy jar to open is in a larger jar)
• Almost always transfers to new container
- Flip top acrylic lid can be hard to open when paint has dried
- What has she tried??
• Chiropractor
• Physical therapist
26
• Occupational therapists
• Functional medicine specialist
• These guys only manage medications and critical stuff
• Uses tens machine, canes and maybe rolling walker, compression gear, vibrating heat belt
• Arthritis gloves cant be worn with compression gear (is going to try lymphedema gloves)
• Joint brace – helpful for walking longer distances (doesn’t work as well for exercise)
• Movement helps limit pain (except for in flare ups)
• Flare ups mean baseline pain is much higher and joints can feel like fire (comes in waves)
- She would like to be able to play with her kids
- Also be able to paint equally well
1.5.2 Second Client Meeting
Space between desk and easel is 4 ft, width of room is 7ft

- How tall? 5ft 1.5’’
- Hand cannot rest of surface (paints)
- While drawing or painting (lying down)
- Pain along underside of arm
Exercises?
→ Does yoga in home
→ Is trained in vinyasa
→ More anyangar style because she moves slowly
→ Weight bearing exercise daily
→ Spine flexibility
Pain gets worse in extreme temperatures

Is holding a tennis ball shaped object comfortable?
- Paint brushes
- Straight, sloped bristles
- More maneuverability
- Rounded tips over flat front
- Writing vs lack of control with the paint
- Smaller brushes
- Hard to hold
- Smaller the brush the harder to hold
- Hand cramps
- Large brush is easier to hold, hard to control
- Squeegees
- Easy to hold, hard to maneuver
- Pain under shoulder after a few minutes

- Holding with left arm allows her to paint longer
27
- Needs compression gear for painting and weightbearing (20-30mm of compression)

- Sleeves, vest, gauntlet
- Gardening
- Really wants to do gardening by herself
- Wants to grow more medicine, flowers
- Wants garden experience to be brought indoors
- Can’t handle fine tactile motions and protecting hands from cactus
- Can’t bend over to get weeds
- Has flowers around her bed
- Can rest elbows and arms on the ground

- Constantly moving – solution must be able to adapt very quickly
- Sometimes bed is where she needs to be – would still like to paint

- Velcro cannot touch skin – other than that is all good (too rough)
- Grocery shopping
- Can make it there and have a hard time coming home
- Staff can be rude and don’t believe she has limitations
- Has to think ahead for transportation options (uber, cab)
- Like turquoise and red
- No gluten, rough edges,
- Avoids jars (she does use small, easy to open jars)
- Squashes are very hard to cut – sometimes cooks potatoes before she cuts them so they are small
enough
- Good config – wrist in line with arm (straight) , fingers rest in natural position
- Paints on floor – increase stabilities

- Nausea, dizziness
- Floor spreads out weight distribution
- Pushing and pulling can be challenging

- When pushing, pins arms to body and bears weight with body
- Pulling is harder
- If going to be worn, must be symmetrical
- Painters maulstick – hasn’t heard of it, painters lean mall stick against the art to support their arm
(cane)
28
- Using palm of hand makes it easier to grip something
Figure 1.5.2
29
1.6 Medical Document Research
Figure 1.6.0
E. Kowalski & K. Chung, “Impairment and disability: Renoir's adaptive coping strategies against rheumatoid arthritis,” Hand (NY),
vol. 7, no. 4, pp. 357-363, Nov, 2012. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3508015/
30
2.0 The Decision and Preliminary Process
2.1 Morphological Chart
Functions Means 1 Means 2 Means 3 Rationale

Decrease strain Compression Wrist rest Temperature After working for a
on arms sleeve, glove, regulation while her arms become
or suit (heating/coolin tired. By decreasing the
g) load on her arms, she
should be able to paint
for longer
Increase Large brush Brush inserted Brush secured She lacks the
comfort in handle in tennis ball to glove strength/dexterity to
hands (Velcro) hold thin objects for
long periods of time
The client has a hard
time holding brushes in
a way that allows the
dexterity she desires.
Decrease the Mobile canvas Exoskeleton Adjustable She can only work for
need for rest chair/ wrist short sessions due to her
rest/ support limitations, so it takes a
system lot of time to finish one
painting. By decreasing
the need to rest she can
finish her painting
quicker and be more
productive.
Make it easier powered Materials are Extremely If the client is having a
to start mobility assist sorted and adjustable easel flare up, the energy
painting system paint is easy to (potentially required to start painting
(decrease access robotics) may be too high. If we
energy (automatic can decrease the energy
required to setup) required to start
begin) painting, she can access
it more often and
consistently.
31
2.2 Decision Matrix
Device Comfortable Safe to Easy to Multifunctional Ease of Totals

Use Use
Manufacturing
Support N’ 3 4 3 5 5 20
Slide
(Emilia)
Supporting 4 1 2 5 1 13
belt
(Amine)
Collapsing 3 3 3 5 3 17
Canvas
(Kevin)
Scissor lift 4 3 5 3 2 17
arm support
(Kyle)
Rod to 3 2 3 3 3 14
support
painting
(Pritika)
32
2.2.2 Decision Matrix Results and Justification
2.3 Design Review Note/Feedback
2.3.1 Preliminary Prototype Feedback
Kevin’s movable easel

- Spring potentially misfires and harms the client?
• Wouldn’t be so strong to overcome gravity
• Would be properly secured
- Lots of moving parts

• Add stickers to show what could be moved and how it moves
• Like IKEA instructions
Emilia’s support and slide

- Lots of wrist support – not entire arm
• Add support for elbow
33
- How portable?
• Clamp can be removed and re-clamped to canvas
• Clamp must be large enough for a canvas
- Clamp makes it difficult for client to place it on canvas?

• Alternative designs for clamp to make it more easily adjustable
Kyle’s Scissor lift arm support

- Buttons are great for controlling movement
2.3.2 Refined Prototype Feedback
Unique design and could potentially help the client

• Should be child proofed: shell casing, soft materials
• Make sure fingers don’t get stuck on pinching points: how to eliminate the possibility?
• Maybe 2 simultaneous buttons to prevent accidental motion
• Phone app, remote, buttons?
For the back rail
• Make back rail telescopic
• Part where joint attaches to rail no longer slides – instead attached to rail and rail slides
Make pre-sets
• If she is comfortable she can save a preset so does not nee to make continuous
adjustments
• Comparable to a car preset (enter car it identifies your comfortable position)
Customize it!
• Include stickers, favourite colours and personalized touches: encourages client to use it
• Doesn’t look like a traditional medical device: reduces stigma, overall aesthetically
pleasing
34
2.4 Concept Sketches
Kevin Bird
2.4.1 - Concept 1
2.4.2 - Concept 2
35
Kyle McMaster
2.4.3 - Concept 1
2.4.4 - Concept 2
36
2.4.5 - Concept 3
Amine Hassine
2.4.6 - Concept 1
37
2.4.7 - Concept 2
Emilia Pisic
2.4.8 - Concept 1
38
2.4.9 - Concept 2
2.4.10 - Concept 3
39
Pritika Thevakanthan
2.4.11 - Concept 1
40
2.4.11 - Concept 2
2.4.12 - Concept 3
41
2.5 Initial Prototype
2.5.1 The Chosen Design: The Adjustable Easel

2.5.1.0 - Refined Sketches
2.5.1.1 - Prototype
42
2.5.2 Alternative Prototypes

2.5.2.0 - Support N Slide
43
2.5.2.1 - Scissor Lift Arm Support
44
2.5.2.2 - Supporting Belt
2.5.2.3 - Rod to Support Painting
45
2.6 Prototype Iteration
46
2.7 Current Testing Plan
Multifunctional
− Testing the prototype’s range of motion using simulations
− METRIC: Number of settings/ modes/ Adjustments
Easy to use
− METRIC: Mass (not too heavy to move/ adjust)
− METRIC: Number of inputs (straightforward instructions)
− METRIC: Dimensions (easy to hold)
Safe
− METRIC: Does not put additional weight/pressure on joints
Comfortable
− Subjective: based on the client’s individual comfort
The metric we chose for multifunctionality was how many settings or positions the device has. This
can be tested be ensuring the full range of motion can be achieved in various positions. It will be
done using a motion simulation adjusting height, position, or angles. A successful design would be
able to be used in all the positions the client typically paints in.
Safety was considered in the beginning of the prototype stages and incorporated into the design. This
can be tested from observation and experimentation. For example, if an edge looks sharp it was
rounded, the predicted weight of the model is too heavy, material was minimized, etc. We also want
to ensure the design does not provide additional strain to the client. The client should be able to
adjust the design without additional strain on their joints. To test this, we will run a force analysis to
see how difficult it is to adjust the easel.
Comfort will be hard to test by using a CAD model. Taking this into consideration, the device was
designed with comfort in mind. The client likes to paint in several different positions and this easel
will help her cycle through these positions more easily. To test the comfort of the device, we can
compare how a computer model of a person of a similar size to the client interacts with the device.
We can further research materials that are readily available and test our own comfort with these
interactions. This would allow us to make some more accurate predictions to client comfort.
To test how easy to use the device is we should test how intuitive the process of making adjustments
is and how much force it takes to make these adjustments. A completely intuitive design would not
need instructions to be understood. We can test this by showing the CAD model to people who are
unfamiliar with the design and seeing how they interact with it. We can use the force analysis from
the safety test to see how easy it is to make adjustments with the design.
47
3.0 The Final Product

3.1 Final Design
Figure 3.1.0 Final model
48
Figure 3.1.1 Control Pad
49
50
51
52
Figure 3.1.2 Final Code
53
3.2 Engineering Drawings
Figure 3.2.0 Base
54
Figure 3.2.1 Back support
55
Figure 3.2.2 Canvas Support
56
Figure 3.2.3 Canvas Clamp
57
Figure 3.2.4 Crossbar Support
58
Figure 3.2.5 Leg Support
59
Figure 3.2.6 Rail Glider
60
Figure 3.2.7 Plastic Rail Cover
61
3.3 Simulation
Figure 3.3.0 Demonstration of use

62
3.4 Bill of Materials
Figure 3.4.0
63
Figure 3.4.1
64
3.5 Future Testing Plan
65
4.0 Planning
4.1 Preliminary Gantt Chart
4.2 Final Gantt Chart
66
4.3 Logbook of Additional Meetings and Discussions
Date Topics Discussed Description

April 7, 2021 Final report Discussed roles and responsibilities
for final report. Began working on
final report.
April 10, 2021 Final report Checked in with group on progress
on final report, reassigned duties to
longer sections, continued working
on final report.
April 13, 2021 Final Report Finalized final report, worked on
formatting and indexing images and
tables, reviewed written sections.
67
5.0 Source Materials Database

M. Ratini, “A Visual Guide to Lymphedema,” WebMD, August 12, 2020. [Online], Available:
[1]
https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/ss/lymphedema [Accessed Mar. 8, 2021]
[2] S. Sampson, “What is Lymphedema,” Medical News Today, April 9, 2019. [Online], Available:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180919 [Accessed Mar. 8, 2021]
“Lymphedema,” Canadian Cancer Society. [Online], Available:
[3] https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/managing-side-
effects/lymphedema/?region=on [Accessed Mar. 8, 2021]
“Primary and Secondary Lymphedema.” What
[4] Causes Lymphedema?, www.lymphcareusa.com/professional/lymph-a-what/what-is-
lymphedema/what-causes-lymphedema.html.
[5] “Ankylosing Spondylitis,” Arthritis Society [online]. Available: https://arthritis.ca/about-
arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/ankylosing-spondylitis [Accessed: Mar. 08, 2021]
“About Spondylitis-Treatment Information-Exercise,” Spondylitis Association of America
[6] [online]. Available: https://spondylitis.org/about-spondylitis/treatment-
information/exercise/ [Accessed: Mar. 08, 2021]
E. Kowalski & K. Chung, “Impairment and disability: Renoir's adaptive coping strategies against
[7] rheumatoid arthritis,” Hand (NY), vol. 7, no. 4, pp. 357-
363, Nov, 2012. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3508015/
[8] W. Häuser, J. Ablin, M. Fitzcharles, … G. L.-N. reviews D., and undefined 2015,
“Fibromyalgia,” nature.com, 2015, doi: 10.1038/nrdp.2015.22.
[9] “What Does Fibromyalgia Feel Like ?” https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-does-
fibromyalgia-feel-like-715813 (accessed Mar. 05, 2021).
[10] “Fibromyalgia Treatments: Pain Medicine, Antidepressants, Therapies, and More.”
https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyalgia-treatments (accessed Mar. 06, 2021).
“Tips for Living With Fibromyalgia: Diet, Stress, Sleep, and More.”
[11] https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/living-with-fibromyalgia-tips (accessed Mar. 06,
2021).
“The Best Advice for Managing Fibromyalgia from Fibro Patients.”
[12] https://creakyjoints.org/living-with-arthritis/tips-for-managing-fibromyalgia/ (accessed Mar. 06,
2021).
“Lymphedema,” Mayo Clinic, 21-Dec-2017. [Online].
[13] Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-
20374682. [Accessed: 8-Mar-2021].
“Breast Cancer: Lymphedema After Treatment,” Johns Hopkins Medicine. [Online].
[14] Available: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/breast-
cancer/breast-cancer-lymphedema-after-treatment. [Accessed: 8-Mar-2021].
“Lymphangitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis,” Healthline. [Online]. Available:
[15]
https://www.healthline.com/health/lymphangitis. [Accessed: 9-Mar-2021].
68
W. Johnson and M. P. Cadogan, “Clinical Considerations for Care of Older Adult Cancer
[16] Survivors,” Journal of Gerontological Nursing, vol. 39, no. 9, pp. 8–12, 2013. https://www-
proquest-com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/docview/1428151849?accountid=12347
[17] Fatigue and Cancer Treatment Surviving Cancer.

. https://permanent.fdlp.gov/gpo21011/Fatigue_and_Cancer_Treatment_Surviving_Cancer.mp4
Shimozuma, K., Ganz, P.A., Petersen, L. et al. Quality of life in the first year after breast cancer
[18] surgery: rehabilitation needs and patterns of recovery. Breast Cancer Res Treat 56, 45–57
(1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1006214830854
[19] A. Kibbe, "The Organizational Structures of Apathy: A Study in Resistance", In a Power Failure,
[online]. Available: https://inapowerfailure.com/#jp-carousel-355
[20] A. Kibbe, "Let the Garden In", In a Power Failure, [online]. Available:
https://inapowerfailure.com/#jp-carousel-187
Ansys Granta EduPack software, Granta DesignLimited, Cambridge, UK,
[21]
2020(www.grantadesign.com).
[22] TNTPredarno, "Mannequin Female", Solid Model. Available: https://sketchfab.com/3d-
models/mannequin-female-5e9898a1ac2048d89fbcdfdb55f8c6b0
Blender software, The Blender Foundation, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 2020 (blender.org)
[23] G. Fontana and M. Esecson, “STAND AND DRAWING-EASELATTACHED TO A
KEYBOARD TO USE WITH MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES ,” 10-May-2016.
69

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Project Four – Power in Community

ENGINEER 1P13 – Integrated Cornerstone Design Projects

Submitted: April 14, 2021

Academic Integrity Statement

1.0 Executive Summary

1.2 The Solution

Figure 3.1.0 Final Model

1.3 The Benefits

1.4 The Future

2.1 Relevant background Information

2.2 Refined Problem Statement

2.3 Objectives and Constraints

2.4 Existing Ideas/Solutions

2.4.2 Commercial Products

3.0 Conceptual Design

3.2 Design Alternatives

In the adjustable easel we discussed alternative methods of how to adjust. We prioritized

4.0 Final Proposed Design

4.1 Specifications of Design

4.1.1 The Easel

4.1.2 The Control System

4.2 Final Drawings

Figure 3.1.0 Figure 3.1.1

4.3 Discussion of Objectives/Constraints

4.3.2 Easy to Use

4.4 Materials and Assembly

4.4.1 Material Selection

4.4.2 Device Construction

4.4.3 Additional Components

4.4.4 Cost Analysis

Item Quantity Cost Description

5.2 Reflection on Team Dynamic

5.3 Concluding Statements

1.2 Commercial Products

1.3 Objective Tree

1.4 How/Why Ladder

1.5 Client Meeting Notes

1.5.1 First Client Meeting – Individual Notes

Figure 1.5.1.0 Figure 1.5.1.1

• Found object sculpture (wire staples and metal)

1.5.2 Second Client Meeting

Space between desk and easel is 4 ft, width of room is 7ft

Pain gets worse in extreme temperatures

- Pain under shoulder after a few minutes

- Needs compression gear for painting and weightbearing (20-30mm of compression)

- Can rest elbows and arms on the ground

- Sometimes bed is where she needs to be – would still like to paint

- Paints on floor – increase stabilities

- Pushing and pulling can be challenging

- Using palm of hand makes it easier to grip something

1.6 Medical Document Research

2.0 The Decision and Preliminary Process

2.1 Morphological Chart

Functions Means 1 Means 2 Means 3 Rationale

2.2 Decision Matrix

Device Comfortable Safe to Easy to Multifunctional Ease of Totals

2.2.2 Decision Matrix Results and Justification

2.3 Design Review Note/Feedback

2.3.1 Preliminary Prototype Feedback

Kevin’s movable easel

- Lots of moving parts

Emilia’s support and slide

- Clamp makes it difficult for client to place it on canvas?