Civil Aviation Authority creating the Attaching Suitcase Prototype – Final Update
Final Steps to Completion!
As the project neared the finish line, John and Max from Siemens stepped in to help bring Anna’s vision to reality. They designed and built a clever mounting system that fit perfectly onto all four suitcases, allowing the rechargeable electromagnets to be smoothly attached and detached. Once the components were ready, they were sent to the CAA STEM team, who integrated the electromagnet system to function exactly as Anna had imagined: suitcases that magnetically connect with the press of a button, and can be pulled together using just one hand.
The next task was to choose the final suitcases. The team decided on four identical models in different colours, each colour symbolising one of the Civil Aviation Authority’s core values: Light Blue (Do the right thing), Yellow (Never stop learning), Red (Build collaborative relationships), and Dark Blue (Respect everyone). These colours not only allowed for any combination of attachment but also celebrated the values that were demonstrated throughout the entire prototyping process. With the team working across departments and locations, often volunteering their time alongside day jobs, careful scheduling and strong communication were crucial to keeping everything on track!
Building the Vision:
With all the parts and a clear vision in place, the only challenge left was finding a space to complete the final build. Chris Malbon generously volunteered his own time and resources to construct the prototype outside of work hours. While he assembled the components, the rest of the team reviewed the design to ensure it met all of Anna’s original requirements and brainstormed a few extra touches to enhance the final presentation.
These included custom luggage tags for each suitcase and something special for Anna, a scaled-down takeaway version of The Attaching Suitcase! Siemens also produced 3D-printed mini models of the suitcase, which were displayed alongside an infographic montage showing the journey from Anna’s original drawing to the finished prototype.
The Final Build:
The completed prototype features a rechargeable electromagnet on both the front and back of each suitcase, securely housed within the Siemens-built mounting system. Each magnet is controlled by an illuminated button on the top of the suitcase, while the power system is tucked neatly under the inner lining accessible yet hidden for a sleek finish. The final result is a colourful, functional, and meaningful creation that brings Anna’s idea to life in a truly impressive way!
The finished prototype was unveiled on 18th June at the Burnley regional award ceremony hosted at Victoria Mill at the University of Central Lancashire (Burnley site) in front of Anna and her family, along with the pupils who took part in this year’s competition with their teachers, parents and engineer inspirers! To read more click here!