To expand on the “Design Finalization” section of the last post, a more detailed explanation of the tasks undertaken follows. Note that the breakdown only applies to the finalization of the design and not the process of construction, as our group is still in contact with Options in order to determine the best path forward on that front.

Determining chime providers, cost, materials, dimensions and expected lifetime
Ross and Grant were responsible for the majority of the work involving the procurement of the chimes themselves. Through internet searches, they were able to find a list of possible providers that would ship their product to Canada. They compared costs across companies, materials and diameters used, while determining which product would have the longest lifetime. It was also necessary to factor in child usage when considering pipe diameter, as while thinner piping is cheaper, children might be able to break it. While the only cost for Ross and Grant was time, what we believe to be the ideal choice for Options will cost approximately $600.

Frame material, dimensions, cost and modelling
Adam and Juan dealt with the aspects of the finalization involving the frame for the chimes. Research was done into appropriate choice and dimensions of material, considering factors such as cost, aesthetics, availability and life-span. Like for the chimes, it was necessary to choose material and dimensions so that the system was stable under it’s own load, and wouldn’t break through usage. Both the research into the frame materials and the digital modelling were done simultaneously and took about three hours each. If our group’s recommendations are followed, the frame will be constructed for approximately $100.

Indicators of Success
As our project aims to be used by children aged 0-6, our indicators of success are rather simple: The chimes stay standing, and the kids have fun using them. Though we are fully confident that the completed project will be structurally sound and stay standing, we will know we have been successful if they manage to encourage exploration and fascinate children for years to come.