The Cup Holder

Matthew Scholtens
The cup holder was a solution to the design problem that was presented. The cup holder is a self-supporting apparatus that is to be used by someone with a disability. The physical features of the cup holder are the following. There are four collapsible legs that allow the holder to be easily transported. Two holes were made in the tray to offer the option of two different drinks at one time. The purpose of the cup holder is to allow the client to become more independent and also give the client more freedom. The independence comes from the fact that another person is not needed to hold a cup for him; the only need for another person is for the initial setup of the holder and drink. Freedom is increased because the cup holder has the capability of being moved to any location quite readily. The original cup holder the client used was limited in location because of the need for it to be located on a table.
Some of the important features of this design are based on the requirements. Some of the most important requirements are the following. The cup holder is lightweight and portable so that someone can carry it with ease. It is also is easily cleaned from spills that will occur during use. The holder is dimensioned properly for the client to fit under it.
There are a relatively few number of different materials involved in the design. Some of the main materials used throughout the design are ABS, steel legs, machined aluminum, nylon and steel fasteners and washers, and bungy cord. These materials were selected based on the requirements on being lightweight, easily cleaned, and aesthetically pleasing. The total cost of the cup holder design is less than $60. This amount was not extremely expensive and could be reproduced if someone else needs a cup holder. And finally, the client is pleased with the end result of the cup holder design. This statement in itself shows that the design was a success.