A Great Midpoint Update on the UpClip Prototype!

Planning

One of the main challenges facing the CAA STEM ProtoTeam was the lack of facilities needed to build the UpClip prototype. While this could have slowed progress, it instead created an excellent opportunity for collaboration.

The team reached out to the Design, Manufacturing and Engineering Management team at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow. This partnership demonstrated how people from different organisations and backgrounds can come together to solve problems and turn ideas into reality.

Prototype Build

The collaboration with the University of Strathclyde quickly proved to be a success. The teams met through a video call, giving everyone the opportunity to introduce themselves, discuss ideas, and explore the best way to manufacture the prototype.

Following these discussions, the decision was made to use three dimensional printing to create the UpClip. The CAA STEM ProtoTeam shared the required design information and model files with the University team, ensuring they had everything needed to begin developing the prototype.

This stage of the project has helped move the UpClip from a design concept towards a physical model while maintaining the key features of Jacob’s original idea.

Pupil Engagement

Keeping Jacob involved throughout the project remained a priority. However, much of the development work took place during the GCSE examination period, making it difficult to find a suitable time that would not interfere with his studies.

The team was pleased to arrange a call with Jacob where they discussed the design process and explored the thinking behind his original concept. Jacob also shared his views on the progress made so far and offered valuable feedback on the future direction of the project.

The conversation was extremely positive and helped the team gain a clearer understanding of the next steps needed to successfully complete the UpClip.

Next Steps

The team will continue working closely with the University of Strathclyde to finalise the prototype and prepare it for completion. The focus now is on turning the final design into a finished model while ensuring it remains faithful to Jacob’s original vision.