Leon Hubby proposed this project.
Description
“Arthur … The Door Butler will resemble a very normal door. As you approach, you will see a door mounted in a partial wall with a very standard motion detector mounted at the top and a porch light to the side. A welcome mat will greet the visitors.”
Operation
“As the visitors approach, the motion detector will turn on the porch light and enable the door to greet the individuals. When the visitors step on the welcome mat, Arthur will open and then close the door for them. First, a compartment on the side of the door will open, a robotic arm will unfold, raise itself, and position to grasp the door knob. Arthur will then grab the door knob, rotate it, and open the door. A mat on the other side of the door will signal Arthur that the individual has passed through. The arm will then close the door, release its grip, and refold itself up closing its access door. “
Artistic and Technological Content
“Art, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. From my perspective the door represents a sculpture in motion. The image of an automatic door does not invoke much artistic impression. A door that lends a hand and opens itself, however, tends to be a bit more intriguing, if not novel. The technological content is centered around making a light-weight yet strong arm and gripper. This project will explore the use of different sensors to detect individuals, the door knob, etc. Differing techniques will be used to center the gripper on the door knob, close around the knob, and rotate to open it. This project will also explore the control aspects using the HC11E9. Special efforts and attention will be placed on the construction of the arm in order to build a light-weight, strong arm. The arm will be constructed of either PVC pipe or Styrofoam coated with epoxy fiberglass.”