southernscouse wrote:I know you said you did not want hydraulic pump up but motorcycle lift can be got for £50
I considered hydraulic system (or similar) for a good while. I decided against it because i was after something instantaneous. I know the pump action would only be a few seconds but that was my thinking. Likewise, motor driven I dismissed because it needs power, is a potential point of failure and just less reliable than mechanical. These may not have been a good decisions.
On reflection, the action of hydraulic lowering would be a positive aspect on user experience. There is something very satisfying about the control and feeling of lowering a jack or pallet truck.
I spent about 5 hrs drawing up a very straightforward mechanical cam lever system last night. As important as this function is, it is only one small part of the overall design. I have been draughting other parts for 2+ weeks now and still have more to do. I had to make a decision and crack on. Even as I write this my mind is still considering the possibilities - and the more I think about it, the less satisifed I am with my option
If I had had the thoughts I am having now about the bike lifts and pallet trucks it would/could have been different. If I finish the drawings and still have time I may change it - but the implications it has on other parts is pretty major.
I really appreciate the input people, it is a very helpful and vital part of the design process - tunnel vision does not help any design. Some of the smallest suggestions, although not directly relevant, can have the biggest impacts on the outcome of a design.
My biggest hurdle at uni has been time - I am pleased with the all designs in my portfoilio but I know given more time I could develop them even further.