Design and development of an automatic ironing machine (part 1)

Abstract

Household users find conventional ironing tedious and time-consuming and would like an alternative product that can meet their expectations. This project aims to develop an effective and low-cost solution for the household user in making ironing easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

This report provides information on the wrinkle removal process and available products in the market. It also revisits research and development works by previous team of students, and draws useful information from them.

Subsequently, design and development techniques were used in the conceptualisation and prototyping of an effective solution to the problem. The selected concept features a machine that reduces per-piece ironing time dramatically with the use of steam and flexible heating strips, as well as prevents jamming.

A prototype was built and trials were conducted to test its effectiveness as part of the proof-of-concept process, and the results were excellent, achieving more than 90% wrinkle removal and meeting almost all of the user requirements.

Recommendations for refinement conclude the report.