Supporting Document: Garage-Door Opener Design Brief
Purpose
Design and print a small mechanism or part that helps the Simpsons House garage door open, close or connect safely to its actuator. The part must be designed for the actual house, not as a generic model.
Design problem
The garage door needs a reliable opener component. Your design must fit the door, avoid jamming, and allow movement without damaging the house or circuit.
Constraints
- The part must fit inside or onto your existing house build.
- The part must not block the garage door from moving.
- The part must not pull wires into moving parts.
- The part must be printable within class time and available printer limits.
- The part must be low-risk to test and teacher-approved before installation.
Minimum design evidence
| Evidence | What to include |
|---|---|
| Problem photo | Photo showing the garage door and where the opener needs to fit. |
| Sketch | Labelled sketch showing the intended movement. |
| CAD screenshot | Shapr3D or approved CAD screenshot of the printable design. |
| Print evidence | Photo of the printed part or failed print attempt. |
| Fit test | Photo/video or notes showing whether it fits and moves. |
| Iteration note | One change you made or would make after testing. |
Design options
Choose one or propose an approved alternative:
| Option | Description | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Pull tab | Small printed tab or bracket that helps pull the door open. | Simple manual or servo-assisted movement. |
| Servo horn connector | Printed connector between servo horn and door/arm. | Servo-based door movement. |
| Guide rail | Side guide that keeps the garage door aligned. | Doors that twist or jam. |
| Stopper | Small stop that prevents the door travelling too far. | Protecting fragile doors. |
| Handle or hinge reinforcement | Visible printed handle or stronger hinge point. | Polishing the physical build. |
Testing questions
- Does the door move smoothly at least five times in a row?
- Does the opener stay attached during movement?
- Does anything rub, jam or pull on wiring?
- Is the part strong enough for repeated use?
- Is it clear which part was designed by you?
Submission checklist
- I included a problem photo.
- I included a labelled sketch.
- I included a CAD screenshot.
- I printed or attempted to print the part.
- I completed a fit/movement test.
- I recorded one improvement after testing.