Gettin' Loaded: Assistive Trunk Loading
Lead Screw and Guide Rail System Design
Project Overview
For the disabled and mobility challenged, loading and unloading automobiles are a challenge. Most commercial car loading solutions are meant for larger vehicles vehicles like trucks and vans. The goal of "Gettin' Loaded" was to create a low cost trunk loading and unloading system for sedans. A system of lead screws, linear guides, and stepper motors were used for creating a strong, reliable, and safe product for the end user.
Design and Construction
The system utilizes a forklift-like design. A backboard containing the lifting mechanism and its components are moved by stepper motors and belts on extruded aluminum rails. The backboard uses a system of linear guides, a stepper motor, a lead screw, and a lead nut to provide lifting power. Stepper motors were chosen for their strength, accuracy, and safety due to natural holding torque even when the system is off. The main construction of the backboard is made out of wood for a lightweight yet strong construction.
Leveraging 3D Printing
The mechanism was designed in a way for easy adjustment on the fly when constructing the backboard. The pieces of wood which contain the linear rails you see above were free moving parts until the final position is settled. In the same way, 3D prints were used to ease overall construction. 3D printed spacers between the linear bearings and the lift were used to provide just enough room between stationary and moving parts for compactness. Custom 3D printed mounts for safety switches were designed and used for on the fly adjustment of start and stop points. Stencils were printed as a way to easily mark where drill holes were needed without excessive measurement.
Video Editing
I edited my group's final presentation video. I used Davinci Resolve, combining powerpoint slides, audio from team members, and added my own professional voiceover with a Shure SM58.
