The objective of project two was to combine the skills of a computing team and modeling team to create a mechanical system for picking up and transferring a surgical instrument in its container into an autoclave to allow for sanitization. The modeling team was tasked with designing a specific container able to fit in the assigned footprint of the autoclave. The design of the container had to allow for sterilization to be done through the container as well as the material being heat and moisture-resistant.

Final container and lid

Overview

The Problem

Our four final design objectives were making the tool able to be sterilized in the container, having optimal container design, precise movement of the Q-Arm, and an efficient computer program. The final four constraints were to have an error-free program, use heat and moisture-resistant material for container fabrication, precise container design, and ensure the container fits within our assigned footprint. Lastly, our final four functions were securely holding the container in place during transfer, allowing the tool to be properly sterilized, moving the arm correctly, and allowing the tool to be properly transferred.

The Solution

When designing our solution, we first considered our design constraints, making sure the box fits in our footprint, as well as precise design to secure the tool. We went with a basic rectangular prism shape as we also needed to ensure the box was easily grabbed by the Q-Arm. To facilitate sterilization, we maximized the area of holes in our container and lid while still ensuring tool security. A major component of our design solution was to ensure the security of the tool inside the container. We took advantage of the saw handle design by adding two cylindrical pegs the handle would fit around. For the blade end, we added a support that the blade would rest on to keep the saw from tipping. Around this support, we implemented a raised wall that goes around the blade to ensure security (semi-circle-shaped). Finally, we incorporated a friction-fit lid design into our solution. Implemented by adding a rail at the top through which a rectangular lid slides in and stays secured through friction.

Overall Objectives

• Arm movement is precise
• Tools can be sterilized in container
• Optimal box design

Tasks

• Design a preliminary prototype for the container
• Create a final 3D Model of a container for the tool
• Fabricate the container using 3D printing
• Participate in a design challenge where the computing team uses the Q-Arm to transport the container, including the tool, into the autoclave for sterilization
• Conduct material research for the sterilization container