Engkutsamy Abishai Rajan & Pasco Oliver

Dina Chehab
First of all, great research and presentation! The drawings and visuals clearly reflect a thoughtful design process. The team conducted thorough research on both the issue and the solution, showcasing excellent data and media analysis. They also explored materials effectively, demonstrating a strong understanding of their options. Additionally, the 3D model of their design illustrates that they carefully considered both form and function. They researched power and propulsion and choosing battery power over traditional fuel is innovative, especially for urban use. It aligns with eco-friendly goals and supports the idea of a low-noise, low-emission transportation device. This choice highlights consideration for the environment and urban compatibility.: The rotating propellers with directional thrust control show thoughtful design for agility and stability, especially in close-quarters city flying. Removing fins simplifies the structure and could make it safer for novice users.: Integrating a joystick and throttle lever directly on the device enhances usability. The placement of controls allows the user to intuitively manage speed and direction. However, additional details about how these controls translate into movement would add clarity.
Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept)
Concept/shape
  • How does the shape of the jetpack accommodate the user’s body? Are there any parts that need padding or a curved design to improve comfort?
  • How does the shape affect aerodynamics? Would a more streamlined design reduce drag?
Functionality 
  • Emergency Features: How does the jetpack handle sudden power loss or emergency landings? Features such as automatic hovering or a backup battery could enhance safety.
  • Propeller Safety Mechanisms: Since the design operates with open propellers, exploring additional shielding or sensors to detect nearby obstacles could improve safety for both the user and others.

Prototyping Suggestions:

  • Propeller and Thrust Simulation: Use lightweight cardboard or plastic discs for propellers and attach them to thin wooden dowels or skewers to represent the rotating mechanism. You can manually turn them to show the concept of directional thrust. Mount these on a foam or cardboard frame to illustrate the overall shape and function.
  • Joystick and Throttle: Craft a joystick and throttle lever using small blocks of wood, foam, or clay. You could mount them with rubber bands or hinges to allow slight movement, simulating user interaction.
  • Battery and Central Case Use a small box or piece of foam for the central case. Mark it with areas where the battery, charging port, and small computer would be located. This can help demonstrate the internal layout.
  • Adjustable Parts and Movements: Pipe cleaners, twist ties, or floral wire are great for representing adjustable components. You can bend them to show possible movement, like adjusting thrust direction.
  • Material Simulation: Use different textures or colors of cardboard or foam to represent the various materials in the design (e.g., lightweight metal, aluminum casing for propellers).
If we have electronics: 
  • Consider adding red LEDs to simulate emergency indicators. These could be placed on the central case to represent alerts for low battery or other system issues.
  • Propeller Simulation: Consider using small electric fans to prototype the effect of directional thrust and its control through the joystick.(powered by dc motors)
  • Control Responsiveness: Testing joystick and throttle controls with simple servos can simulate the feel and response users might experience.
  • Adjustable Power Pack: Mock-up a detachable battery module to test its ergonomics and weight distribution on the design.
  • Ressources here : ideas for some prototyping elements:  https://sek.nuvustudio.com/projects/114402-07-low-fidelity-prototyping-wearable-cardboard-mock-ups/tabs/134122-jetpack-project