Gate 3 - Group 15 - 2012 - Revision history

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Upper Blade Guard */

2012-12-09T10:48:07Z

Upper Blade Guard

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Lower Blade Guard */

2012-12-09T10:42:55Z

Lower Blade Guard

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Motor Housing */

2012-12-09T10:42:34Z

Motor Housing

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Lower Blade Guard */

2012-12-09T10:12:15Z

Lower Blade Guard

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Handle/Hand Grip */

2012-12-09T09:56:47Z

Handle/Hand Grip

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Component Analysis */

2012-12-09T09:23:18Z

Component Analysis

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Component Analysis */

2012-12-09T09:00:58Z

Component Analysis

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Discussion */

2012-12-09T08:41:43Z

Discussion

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Diagram */

2012-12-09T07:58:44Z

Diagram

MAE 277 2012 - Group 15: /* Product Archaeology: Product Evaluation */

2012-12-09T07:21:54Z

Product Archaeology: Product Evaluation

@@ Line 665: / Line 665: @@
 *Component Function
-•	Just like the lower blade guard, the upper blade guard is charged with the task of protecting the user from the saw blade. Unlike the lower guard, this component does not rotate to control the amount of the blade that is revealed for use. Instead, it stays in a fixed position with respect to the blade and lower blade guard. During operation of the circular saw, it will cover the saw blade as well as portions of the lower blade guard. In the grand scheme of the circular saw’s operation, the upper blade guard is the base for which many of the other components join together and collaborate.
+Just like the lower blade guard, the upper blade guard is charged with the task of protecting the user from the saw blade. Unlike the lower guard, this component does not rotate to control the amount of the blade that is revealed for use. Instead, it stays in a fixed position with respect to the blade and lower blade guard. During operation of the circular saw, it will cover the saw blade as well as portions of the lower blade guard. In the grand scheme of the circular saw’s operation, the upper blade guard is the base for which many of the other components join together and collaborate.
-•	The upper blade guard has a multitude of components connected to it and thus many flow cycles. The rotary motion of the saw blade is one example. The Motor connects to the upper blade guard and forces the blade to spin at a high rate within its shell. A large amount of grease is used to combat the issue of friction. And there are several ventilation holes through which heat may escape.
+The upper blade guard has a multitude of components connected to it and thus many flow cycles. The rotary motion of the saw blade is one example. The Motor connects to the upper blade guard and forces the blade to spin at a high rate within its shell. A large amount of grease is used to combat the issue of friction. And there are several ventilation holes through which heat may escape.
-•	Due to the high intensity environment the upper blade guard operates in, it must be able to withstand a lot of force. As mentioned previously, there is the issue of the rotating saw blade along with the heat being given off. Not to mention the flying debris due to the cutting of various materials.
+Due to the high intensity environment the upper blade guard operates in, it must be able to withstand a lot of force. As mentioned previously, there is the issue of the rotating saw blade along with the heat being given off. Not to mention the flying debris due to the cutting of various materials.
 *Component Form
-•	Similar to the lower blade guard, the shape of a half circle is also seen in the upper blade guard.
+Similar to the lower blade guard, the shape of a half circle is also seen in the upper blade guard.
-•	Other than the symmetry seen from splitting the half circle shape in half, there are no other definitive qualities that are symmetric.
+Other than the symmetry seen from splitting the half circle shape in half, there are no other definitive qualities that are symmetric.
-•	In order to house the blade as well as the lower blade guard, this component must also be three dimensional. Especially due to its requirement to bring together all of the separate components into a circular saw system.
+In order to house the blade as well as the lower blade guard, this component must also be three dimensional. Especially due to its requirement to bring together all of the separate components into a circular saw system.
-•	The diameter of the half circle geometry is approximately 25 cm with a height of 3.8 cm. When considering the protrusions on the back to accommodate the motor and its housing unit, the height is around 7.5 cm.
+The diameter of the half circle geometry is approximately 25 cm with a height of 3.8 cm. When considering the protrusions on the back to accommodate the motor and its housing unit, the height is around 7.5 cm.
-•	Clearly, the shape of the upper blade guard is in direct correlation to the circular shape of the lower blade guard and the circular saw blade. They must all be concentric to one another in order for these two components to fit within the cavity of the upper blade guard. Without this requirement, the blade would certainly damage the guards. Not to mention the fact that nothing would fit and the circular saw would be unable to function properly.
+Clearly, the shape of the upper blade guard is in direct correlation to the circular shape of the lower blade guard and the circular saw blade. They must all be concentric to one another in order for these two components to fit within the cavity of the upper blade guard. Without this requirement, the blade would certainly damage the guards. Not to mention the fact that nothing would fit and the circular saw would be unable to function properly.
-•	Weight:  27.3 ounces
+The weight of the upper blade guard is 27.3 ounces and is made from steel in order to meet the high demands of its function. Strength is perhaps the most important aspect to ensure that the user is protected from the dangerous blade. In addition, it is also necessary to provide support for the entire structure of the circular saw. Even more so when you consider how much torque is behind the rapidly rotating saw blade. In the end, it comes down to strength and support with the upper blade guard.
-•	This component is made from steel in order to meet the high demands of its function. Strength is perhaps the most important aspect to ensure that the user is protected from the dangerous blade. In addition, it is also necessary to provide support for the entire structure of the circular saw. Even more so when you consider how much torque is behind the rapidly rotating saw blade. In the end, it comes down to strength and support with the upper blade guard.
+Global Factor:  Global Factor:  Steel is readily available around the world because it is used so often in all aspects of industry.
-•	Global Factor:  Global Factor:  Steel is readily available around the world because it is used so often in all aspects of industry.
+Societal Factor:  without an extremely strong material being used for the upper blade guard, the saw could be able to hurt the user if an accident occurred. The top of the blade would be more likely to cut through a weaker material which could be detrimental considering it is so close to the handle. Since the main function of the upper blade guard is to protect the user, it makes sense that steel would be used to fully protect them.
-•	Societal Factor:  without an extremely strong material being used for the upper blade guard, the saw could be able to hurt the user if an accident occurred. The top of the blade would be more likely to cut through a weaker material which could be detrimental considering it is so close to the handle. Since the main function of the upper blade guard is to protect the user, it makes sense that steel would be used to fully protect them.
+Economic Factor:  Steel has become much cheaper over the years thanks to its widespread use. Furthermore, since it is such a strong material, less of it is needed in order to guarantee protection from the saw blade. Therefore driving costs down even further.
-•	Economic Factor:  Steel has become much cheaper over the years thanks to its widespread use. Furthermore, since it is such a strong material, less of it is needed in order to guarantee protection from the saw blade. Therefore driving costs down even further.
+Environmental Factor:  Over time most materials will degrade and lose their ability to allow a component to function. Luckily, steel is extremely resistant to the outside forces imposed upon it and truly has the ability to last a lifetime. This means it won’t need to be replaced very often and the product won’t be continuously wasted. However, when it is no longer needed, the steel component can be melted down and eventually recycled.
-•	Environmental Factor:  Over time most materials will degrade and lose their ability to allow a component to function. Luckily, steel is extremely resistant to the outside forces imposed upon it and truly has the ability to last a lifetime. This means it won’t need to be replaced very often and the product won’t be continuously wasted. However, when it is no longer needed, the steel component can be melted down and eventually recycled.
+Aesthetic Properties:  The upper blade guard is a standard silver color and has no real need to have overwhelmingly pleasing aesthetic properties. Although, it does have a glossy finish which does make it more appealing than if it wasn’t finished. This factor could be important to sales since it is one of the most visible components. Furthermore, the brand “Skilsaw” is embossed on the exterior along with a sticker displaying the amperage (13 amps) and the maximum horsepower (2.3 HP).
-•	Aesthetic Properties:  The upper blade guard is a standard silver color and has no real need to have overwhelmingly pleasing aesthetic properties. Although, it does have a glossy finish which does make it more appealing than if it wasn’t finished. This factor could be important to sales since it is one of the most visible components. Furthermore, the brand “Skilsaw” is embossed on the exterior along with a sticker displaying the amperage (13 amps) and the maximum horsepower (2.3 HP).
 *Manufacturing Methods
-•	Die Casting:  the steel was melted down into liquid form and then poured into a die in the form of the upper blade guard. After it has cooled down and hardened, the upper blade guard is finished for aesthetic purposes and then the final product is ready. The die is also made of steel and can be reused.
+The upper blade guard was made via die casting; the steel was melted down into liquid form and then poured into a die in the form of the upper blade guard. After it has cooled down and hardened, the upper blade guard is finished for aesthetic purposes and then the final product is ready. The die is also made of steel and can be reused.
-•	Evidence:  die casting is typically used for steel parts that aren’t extremely complicated. There is also a noticeable cylindrical riser mark. It is near the top/back portion of the upper blade guard next to the extrusion where the motor housing unit attaches.
+The upper blade guard does not have very complex geometry, which suggests that it is made by die casting. There is also a noticeable cylindrical riser mark. It is near the top/back portion of the upper blade guard next to the extrusion where the motor housing unit attaches.
-•	As usual, the choice of material influenced the decision to create the upper blade guard from die casting. Steel is one of the most common used metals in die casting and has a good level of fluidity to fit the mold. However, the shape impacted the decision more so due to the lack of great complexity. Although it is considerably more intricate than the lower blade guard, most of the complications are just ribbing for added support or other purposes. The manufacturer could achieve plenty of precision using a die cast; and they still get to reuse the mold as well.
+As usual, the choice of material influenced the decision to create the upper blade guard from die casting. Steel is one of the most common used metals in die casting and has a good level of fluidity to fit the mold. However, the shape impacted the decision more so due to the lack of great complexity. Although it is considerably more intricate than the lower blade guard, most of the complications are just ribbing for added support or other purposes. The manufacturer could achieve plenty of precision using a die cast; and they still get to reuse the mold as well.
-•	Global/Societal Factor:  reusable molds allow for large scale replication to meet up with the demand of the market. Keeps production moving at a fast pace while still providing high quality products that are safe to use.
+Global/Societal Factor:  reusable molds allow for large scale replication to meet up with the demand of the market. Keeps production moving at a fast pace while still providing high quality products that are safe to use.
-•	Economic Factor:  having a reusable mold is a huge factor because it greatly drives down the cost to produce each upper blade guard.
+Economic Factor:  having a reusable mold is a huge factor because it greatly drives down the cost to produce each upper blade guard.
-•	Environmental Factor:  the die can be used multiple times which decreases the amount of waste produced. Even if the die were to be decommissioned from the workplace, it can be recycled since it is made of steel anyway.
+Environmental Factor:  the die can be used multiple times which decreases the amount of waste produced. Even if the die were to be decommissioned from the workplace, it can be recycled since it is made of steel anyway.
 *Component Complexity
-•	Primary Functions:  3 (2)
+Primary Functions:  3 (2).
-•	Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2)
+Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2).
-•	Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
+Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1).
-•	Finish Level: moderate (2)
+Finish Level: moderate (2).
-•	Geometry Complexity:  moderate (2)
+Geometry Complexity:  moderate (2).
-•	Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2)
+Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2).
-•	Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
+Processes Needed:  1 process (1).
-•	Complexity Rating:  (12) = Level 3
+Complexity Rating:  (12) = Level 3
 ==='''Solid Modeled Assembly'''===

@@ Line 606: / Line 606: @@
 *Component Complexity
-Primary Functions:  2 (2)
+Primary Functions:  2 (2).
-Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2)
+Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2).
-Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
+Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1).
-Finish Level: moderate (2)
+Finish Level: moderate (2).
-Geometry Complexity:  low (1)
+Geometry Complexity:  low (1).
-Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2)
+Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2).
-Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
+Processes Needed:  1 process (1).
 Complexity Rating:  (11) = Level 3

@@ Line 620: / Line 620: @@
 *Component Function
-•	The motor housing unit’s main function is self-explanatory since it is primarily used to house the motor that propels the saw blade. It is a rigid structure designed to contain and protect the important mechanisms within.
+The motor housing unit’s main function is self-explanatory since it is primarily used to house the motor that propels the saw blade. It is a rigid structure designed to contain and protect the important mechanisms within.
-•	Another general purpose it has is to connect the handle to the body of the rest of the circular saw. It also is vented to allow air flow in order to dissipate some of the heat being generated.
+Another general purpose it has is to connect the handle to the body of the rest of the circular saw. It also is vented to allow air flow in order to dissipate some of the heat being generated.
-•	Flows associated with this part are all contained within the interior. While the only flow the actual motor housing goes through is transfer of heat energy; the motor inside goes through more complex flows.
+Flows associated with this part are all contained within the interior. While the only flow the actual motor housing goes through is transfer of heat energy; the motor inside goes through more complex flows.
-•	The motor housing unit is on the exterior of the circular saw and thus has to be resilient when facing anything in the environment it is left it. Aside from this, it also has to be able to withstand a considerable amount of heat due to the energy produced from the motor while it is running.
+The motor housing unit is on the exterior of the circular saw and thus has to be resilient when facing anything in the environment it is left it. Aside from this, it also has to be able to withstand a considerable amount of heat due to the energy produced from the motor while it is running.
 *Component Form
-•	Overall the motor housing looks like a large hollow cylinder with a couple features that branch off. For example, there are three extrusions at the base for screws to connect the unit to the circular saw. As well as the array at the top of the motor housing that tapers off and allows the exhaust cover to be fastened.
+Overall the motor housing looks like a large hollow cylinder with a couple features that branch off. For example, there are three extrusions at the base for screws to connect the unit to the circular saw. As well as the array at the top of the motor housing that tapers off and allows the exhaust cover to be fastened.
-•	Aside from some minor differences in the orientation, the motor housing is very close to being symmetric. The array at the top (for the exhaust cover) was clearly designed with symmetry in mind. Furthermore, the screw extrusions at the base form an equilateral triangle with one another.
+Aside from some minor differences in the orientation, the motor housing is very close to being symmetric. The array at the top (for the exhaust cover) was clearly designed with symmetry in mind. Furthermore, the screw extrusions at the base form an equilateral triangle with one another.
-•	This piece is three dimensional and the basic cylindrical shape has a base diameter of 10 cm and a height of 11.8 cm. The screw extrusions have a diameter of 1 cm and the array at the top is an additional 3.2 cm high.
+This piece is three dimensional and the basic cylindrical shape has a base diameter of 10 cm and a height of 11.8 cm. The screw extrusions have a diameter of 1 cm and the array at the top is an additional 3.2 cm high.
-•	The shape of the motor housing unit is designed to contain the motor while taking up as little space as possible. Also, it will help heat flow out of the chamber into the environment.
+The shape of the motor housing unit is designed to contain the motor while taking up as little space as possible. Also, it will help heat flow out of the chamber into the environment. The motor housing weighs roughly 7.0 ounces and is constructed of Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic
-•	Weight:  7.0 ounces
+The piece was probably made from Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic due to its strength and very low weight. Using this material ensures that it won’t break and prevents the addition of any unnecessary weight.  In addition, this piece needs to have a high tolerance for heat since it is housing the motor.
-•	Material:  Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic
+This Thermodynamic Plastic was chosen due to its property to withstand high temperatures that would be produced from the motor.
-•	The piece was probably made from Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic due to its strength and very low weight. Using this material ensures that it won’t break and prevents the addition of any unnecessary weight.  In addition, this piece needs to have a high tolerance for heat since it is housing the motor.
+Global Factor:  Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic is a commonly used plastic in industry throughout the world.
-•	This Thermodynamic Plastic was chosen due to its property to withstand high temperatures that would be produced from the motor.
+Societal Factor:  safe to use thanks to its significant strength providing plenty of support to handle the immense forces when cutting.
-•	Global Factor:  Thermodynamic/ABS Plastic is a commonly used plastic in industry throughout the world.
+Economic Factor:  Not too expensive to the point where it would drive up the cost for the entire circular saw.
-•	Societal Factor:  safe to use thanks to its significant strength providing plenty of support to handle the immense forces when cutting.
+Environmental Factor:  Thermodynamic plastic is recyclable like many other plastics. Also does not contain the hazardous compound Bisphenol A.
-•	Economic Factor:  Not too expensive to the point where it would drive up the cost for the entire circular saw.
+Aesthetic Properties:  the motor housing is a vivid hue of red with a basic finish, not like the smoother glossy finish on the handle. Other than the fact that it is used to complement the red color of the handle, there is no real purpose. It may also be used to signify a safe area to grab the circular saw without risk of injury. This would make sense because the cylindrical shape would make it a good spot for the user to place their other hand; thereby providing further support while working.
-•	Environmental Factor:  Thermodynamic plastic is recyclable like many other plastics. Also does not contain the hazardous compound Bisphenol A.
-•	Aesthetic Properties:  the motor housing is a vivid hue of red with a basic finish, not like the smoother glossy finish on the handle. Other than the fact that it is used to complement the red color of the handle, there is no real purpose. It may also be used to signify a safe area to grab the circular saw without risk of injury. This would make sense because the cylindrical shape would make it a good spot for the user to place their other hand; thereby providing further support while working.
 *Manufacturing Methods
-•	Injection Molding:  process of forcing molten (Thermodynamic/ABS) plastic into a mold that can be reused and letting it cool to get a finished product.
+The motor housing was made using injection molding by forcing molten (Thermodynamic/ABS) plastic into a mold that can be reused and letting it cool to get a finished product. The evidence is the riser mark seen on the array at the top of the cylindrical shape.
-•	Evidence:  riser mark seen on the array at the top of the cylindrical shape.
+The material choice is definitely affected this decision since injection molding is a very common procedure when dealing with plastics.
-•	Material choice definitely affected this decision since injection molding is a very common procedure when dealing with plastics.
+Since it has a complex shape, the ability to reuse a single mold to form the same part cuts down time and costs.
-•	Since it has a complex shape, the ability to reuse a single mold to form the same part cuts down time and costs.
+Global Factor:  Injection molding is very common in modern industry.
-•	Global Factor:  Injection molding is very common in modern industry.
+Societal Factor:  molds can be reused so production can keep up with demand.
-•	Societal Factor:  molds can be reused so production can keep up with demand.
+Economic:  reusable molds drive down the production cost and make the product cheaper when it comes to the market.
-•	Economic:  reusable molds drive down the production cost and make the product cheaper when it comes to the market.
+Environmental:  once again the reusable molds prove to be useful considering they prevent having to make new molds and thereby wasting material.
-•	Environmental:  once again the reusable molds prove to be useful considering they prevent having to make new molds and thereby wasting material.
 *Component Complexity
-−
-•	Primary Functions:  1 (1)
+Primary Functions:  1 (1).
-•	Motion Involved:  no movement (1)
+Motion Involved:  no movement (1).
-•	Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
+Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1).
-•	Finish Level: moderate (2)
+Finish Level: moderate (2).
-•	Geometry Complexity:  low (1)
+Geometry Complexity:  low (1).
-•	Manufacturing Difficulty:  low (1)
+Manufacturing Difficulty:  low (1).
-•	Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
+Processes Needed:  1 process (1).
-•	Complexity Rating:  (8) = Level 1
+Complexity Rating:  (8) = Level 1
 =====Upper Blade Guard=====

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 *Component Function
-•	For the lower blade guard, its job to protect the user from the possibility of a serious injury is extremely important. Although the circular saw could technically be used without it, there is no doubt that it serves an important purpose and has prevented untold amounts of devastating accidents.
+For the lower blade guard, its job to protect the user from the possibility of a serious injury is extremely important. Although the circular saw could technically be used without it, there is no doubt that it serves an important purpose and has prevented untold amounts of devastating accidents.
-•	The flows associated with this component are purely mechanical. As the user begins to push the circular saw through the cutting material, the lower blade guard rotates up into the cavity of the upper blade guard. It will continuously push up into the upper blade guard to reveal as little of the blade as possible (to protect the user) while still allowing the circular saw to cut as efficiently as possible.
+The flows associated with this component are purely mechanical. As the user begins to push the circular saw through the cutting material, the lower blade guard rotates up into the cavity of the upper blade guard. It will continuously push up into the upper blade guard to reveal as little of the blade as possible (to protect the user) while still allowing the circular saw to cut as efficiently as possible.
-•	During the operation of the circular saw, the lower blade guard will be exposed to fragments flying at high velocity and heat energy. Therefore, it must be able to withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear since it is so close to the actual blade itself; as well as the cutting surface.
+During the operation of the circular saw, the lower blade guard will be exposed to fragments flying at high velocity and heat energy. Therefore, it must be able to withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear since it is so close to the actual blade itself; as well as the cutting surface.
 *Component Form
-•	The general shape of the lower blade guard is a half circle. However, it does have a small cavity for the blade to fit into and a protrusion on the top with a screw thread for attachment. On its back is an array of 10 rib like extrusions on the surface for support.
+The general shape of the lower blade guard is a half circle. However, it does have a small cavity for the blade to fit into and a protrusion on the top with a screw thread for attachment. On its back is an array of 10 rib like extrusions on the surface for support.
-•	While there is no true symmetry overall for the entire lower blade guard, the ribbing on the back surface is symmetric.
+While there is no true symmetry overall for the entire lower blade guard, the ribbing on the back surface is symmetric.
-•	The piece is close to being two dimensional if it wasn’t for the cavity where the blade goes; making it a three dimensional piece.
+The piece is close to being two dimensional if it wasn’t for the cavity where the blade goes; making it a three dimensional piece.
-•	Overall size is defined by the diameter of the half circle; which is approximately 20 cm. The depth is around 1.6 cm for the main body and 4.2 cm when including the other extrusions.
+Overall size is defined by the diameter of the half circle; which is approximately 20 cm. The depth is around 1.6 cm for the main body and 4.2 cm when including the other extrusions.
-•	The half circle shape of the lower blade guard is concentric to the blade so that it can pass through while spinning without coming into contact. Since it is a half circle, it can reveal up to half of the blade at one time or even less as a safety precaution.
+The half circle shape of the lower blade guard is concentric to the blade so that it can pass through while spinning without coming into contact. Since it is a half circle, it can reveal up to half of the blade at one time or even less as a safety precaution.
-•	Weight:  13.9 ounces
+The lower blade guard weighs roughly 13.9 ounces and is constructed of steel.
-•	Material:  Steel
+Steel is the best choice of material to be used for the lower blade guard because it is a very strong material and relatively light weight considering how strong it really is. There is no doubt that steel is needed not only to withstand the wear and tear from use, but also to protect the user.
-•	Steel is the perfect material to be used for the lower blade guard. It is a very strong material and relatively light weight considering how strong it really is. There is no doubt that steel is needed not only to withstand the wear and tear from use, but also to protect the user.
+Global Factor:  Steel is readily available around the world because it is used so often in all aspects of industry.
-•	Global Factor:  Steel is readily available around the world because it is used so often in all aspects of industry.
+Societal Factor:  without an extremely strong material being used for the blade guard, the saw might still be able to hurt the user if an accident occurred. Since the main function of the lower blade guard is to protect the user, it makes sense that steel would be used to fully protect them.
-•	Societal Factor:  without an extremely strong material being used for the blade guard, the saw might still be able to hurt the user if an accident occurred. Since the main function of the lower blade guard is to protect the user, it makes sense that steel would be used to fully protect them.
+Economic Factor:  Steel has become much cheaper over the years thanks to its widespread use. Furthermore, since it is such a strong material, less of it is needed in order to guarantee protection from the saw blade. Therefore driving costs down even further.
-•	Economic Factor:  Steel has become much cheaper over the years thanks to its widespread use. Furthermore, since it is such a strong material, less of it is needed in order to guarantee protection from the saw blade. Therefore driving costs down even further.
+Environmental Factor:  Over time most materials will degrade and lose their ability to allow a component to function. Luckily, steel is extremely resistant to the outside forces imposed upon it and truly has the ability to last a lifetime. This means it won’t need to be replaced very often and the product won’t be continuously wasted. However, when it is no longer needed, the steel component can be melted down and eventually recycled.
-•	Environmental Factor:  Over time most materials will degrade and lose their ability to allow a component to function. Luckily, steel is extremely resistant to the outside forces imposed upon it and truly has the ability to last a lifetime. This means it won’t need to be replaced very often and the product won’t be continuously wasted. However, when it is no longer needed, the steel component can be melted down and eventually recycled.
+Aesthetic Properties:  The lower blade guard is a standard silver color and has no real need to have overwhelmingly pleasing aesthetic properties. Although, it does have a glossy finish which does make it more appealing than if it wasn't finished. On the other hand, there are shallow engravings on the outer edge in the shape of an arrow. These serve as a guide for the user to understand the direction of rotation of the blade guard. As a guideline to instruct the user how to properly replace the blade, there is an instructional sticker on the inside of the lower blade guard.
-•	Aesthetic Properties:  The lower blade guard is a standard silver color and has no real need to have overwhelmingly pleasing aesthetic properties. Although, it does have a glossy finish which does make it more appealing than if it wasn’t finished. On the other hand, there are shallow engravings on the outer edge in the shape of an arrow. These serve as a guide for the user to understand the direction of rotation of the blade guard. As a guideline to instruct the user how to properly replace the blade, there is an instructional sticker on the inside of the lower blade guard.
 *Manufacturing Methods
-•	Die Casting:  the steel was melted down into liquid form and then poured into a die in the form of the lower blade guard. After it has cooled down and hardened, the lower blade guard is finished for aesthetic purposes and then the final product is ready. The die is also made of steel and can be reused.
+The blade guard was made using die casting; steel was melted down into liquid form and then poured into a die in the form of the lower blade guard. After it has cooled down and hardened, the lower blade guard is finished for aesthetic purposes and then the final product is ready. The die is also made of steel and can be reused.
-•	Evidence:  die casting is typically used for steel parts that aren’t extremely complicated. There is also a small riser mark on the back of the blade guard.
+The evidence of die casting is typically used for steel parts that aren't extremely complicated. There is also a small riser mark on the back of the blade guard.
-•	As usual, the choice of material influenced the decision to create the lower blade guard from die casting. Steel is one of the most common used metals in die casting and has a good level of fluidity to fit the mold. However, the shape impacted the decision more so due to the lack of great complexity. The manufacturer could achieve plenty of precision using a die cast and they still get to reuse the mold as well.
+As usual, the choice of material influenced the decision to create the lower blade guard from die casting. Steel is one of the most common used metals in die casting and has a good level of fluidity to fit the mold. However, the shape impacted the decision more so due to the lack of great complexity. The manufacturer could achieve plenty of precision using a die cast and they still get to reuse the mold as well.
-•	Global/Societal Factor:  reusable molds allow for large scale replication to meet up with the demand of the market. Keeps production moving at a fast pace while still providing high quality products that are safe to use.
+Global/Societal Factor:  reusable molds allow for large scale replication to meet up with the demand of the market. Keeps production moving at a fast pace while still providing high quality products that are safe to use.
-•	Economic Factor:  having a reusable mold is a huge factor because it greatly drives down the cost to produce each blade guard.
+Economic Factor:  having a reusable mold is a huge factor because it greatly drives down the cost to produce each blade guard.
-•	Environmental Factor:  the die can be used multiple times which decreases the amount of waste produced. Even if the die were to be decommissioned from the workplace, it can be recycled since it is made of steel anyway.
+Environmental Factor:  the die can be used multiple times which decreases the amount of waste produced. Even if the die were to be decommissioned from the workplace, it can be recycled since it is made of steel anyway.
 *Component Complexity
-•	Primary Functions:  2 (2)
+Primary Functions:  2 (2)
-•	Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2)
+Motion Involved:  constrained movement (2)
-•	Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
+Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
-•	Finish Level: moderate (2)
+Finish Level: moderate (2)
-•	Geometry Complexity:  low (1)
+Geometry Complexity:  low (1)
-•	Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2)
+Manufacturing Difficulty:  moderate (2)
-•	Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
+Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
-•	Complexity Rating:  (11) = Level 3
+Complexity Rating:  (11) = Level 3
 =====Motor Housing=====

@@ Line 563: / Line 563: @@
 *Manufacturing Methods
+The handle was made using injection molding by forcing molten (ABS) plastic into a mold that can be reused and letting it cool down to get a finished product. The evidence was a small riser mark on grip area of the handle. Plastic components are most commonly produced using the method of injection molding. The material choice definitely affected this decision since injection molding is a very common procedure when dealing with plastics.  Since it has a complex shape, the ability to reuse a single mold to form the same part cuts down time and costs.
-•	Injection Molding:  process of forcing molten (ABS) plastic into a mold that can be reused and letting it cool down to get a finished product.
+Global Factor:  Injection molding is very common in modern industry.
-•	Evidence:  small riser mark on grip area of the handle. Plastic components are most commonly produced using the method of injection molding.
+Societal Factor:  molds can be reused so production can keep up with demand.
-•	Material choice definitely affected this decision since injection molding is a very common procedure when dealing with plastics.
+Economic:  reusable molds drive down the production cost and make the product cheaper when it comes to the market.
-•	Since it has a complex shape, the ability to reuse a single mold to form the same part cuts down time and costs.
+Environmental:  once again the reusable molds prove to be useful considering they prevent having to make new molds and thereby wasting material.
-•	Global Factor:  Injection molding is very common in modern industry.
-•	Societal Factor:  molds can be reused so production can keep up with demand.
-•	Economic:  reusable molds drive down the production cost and make the product cheaper when it comes to the market.
-•	Environmental:  once again the reusable molds prove to be useful considering they prevent having to make new molds and thereby wasting material.
 *Component Complexity
-•	Primary Functions: 1 (1)
+The handle has a single primary movement, which is to function as a point for the user to guide the tool with (1). The parts itself does not move other than along with the tool itself (1). The handle has a low quality of aesthetics (1) and has a moderate level of finishing. (2) The handle has a moderate level of complexity of geometry due to the way it must be shaped to accommodate the hand (2). The manufacturing difficulty is low because it is simply injection molded (1). The number of processes needed to produce the handle is a single injection molding (1). The overall complexity rating is (9) = Level 2
-•	Motion Involved:  no movement (1)
-•	Quality of Aesthetics:  low (1)
-•	Finish Level: moderate (2)
-•	Geometry Complexity:  moderate (2)
-•	Manufacturing Difficulty:  low (1)
-•	Processes Needed:  1 process (1)
-•	Complexity Rating:  (9) = Level 2
 =====Lower Blade Guard=====

@@ Line 556: / Line 556: @@
 *Component Function
-•	The main function of the Handle is to give the operator the ability to efficiently handle the circular saw while in use. In addition, it also houses the trigger mechanism and related wiring to power the rotation of the saw blade.
+The main function of the Handle is to give the operator the ability to efficiently handle the circular saw while in use. In addition, it also houses the trigger mechanism and related wiring to power the rotation of the saw blade. One flows associated with this component is the chain reaction used to turn on the circular saw; due to the pull of the trigger. Environmentally, the handle has to deal with whatever conditions it is placed in since it is on the exterior. This could mean hot/cold temperatures or any forces that are placed upon it. One such example could be the constant contact and friction with the users hand while in use.
-•	One flow associated with this component is the chain reaction used to turn on the circular saw; due to the pull of the trigger.
-•	Environmentally, the handle has to deal with whatever conditions it is placed in since it is on the exterior. This could mean hot/cold temperatures or any forces that are placed upon it. One such example could be the constant contact and friction with the users hand while in use.
 *Component Form
-•	There is no basic shape that the handle can justly be compared to. Overall, its general shape is defined by several curves and splines.
+There is no basic shape that the handle can justly be compared to. Overall, its general shape is defined by several curves and splines. Since this part is technically one half of the handle, this means it is symmetric to the other half. Both pieces join together to form the whole handle apparatus. The component is primarily three dimensional. While there are no general dimensions we can associate with this part and a shape, it would be able to fit in an approximately 20 x 19 x 5 (centimeter) box. Thanks to its curved form, the handle is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip for the user’s hand. Furthermore, the interior has plenty of ribbing to ensure stability and strength. The handle weighs roughly 3.1 ounces and is constructed of ABS Plastic. The piece was probably made from ABS Plastic due to its strength and very low weight. Using this material ensures that it won’t break and prevents the addition of any unnecessary weight. No specific material property is needed for the handle to function. It could be made of numerous materials it just so happens that ABS Plastic is the most efficient. A global factor would include the use of ABS Plastic because is one of the most commonly used plastics in industry throughout the world. A societal factor would be safety to use thanks to its significant strength providing plenty of support to handle the immense forces when cutting. An economic factor would be the cost because it much cheaper than other suitable materials such as steel. An environmental factor would be the use of ABS Plastic as a recyclable like many other plastics. Also does not contain the hazardous compound Bisphenol A. Aesthetically, its vivid red color serves to clearly show the user where they can safely grab the circular saw with no risk of injury. In addition, it has a textured surface where the hand contacts the handle to prevent slipping and promote a strong grip. The rest of the surface has a glossy smooth finish.
-•	Since this part is technically one half of the handle, this means it is symmetric to the other half. Both pieces join together to form the whole handle apparatus.
-•	The component is primarily three dimensional.
-•	While there are no general dimensions we can associate with this part and a shape, it would be able to fit in an approximately 20 x 19 x 5 (centimeter) box.
-•	Thanks to its curved form, the handle is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip for the user’s hand. Furthermore, the interior has plenty of ribbing to ensure stability and strength.
-•	Weight:  3.1 ounces
-•	Material:  ABS Plastic
-•	The piece was probably made from ABS Plastic due to its strength and very low weight. Using this material ensures that it won’t break and prevents the addition of any unnecessary weight.
-•	No specific material property is needed for the handle to function. It could be made of numerous materials it just so happens that ABS Plastic is the most efficient.
-•	Global Factor:  ABS Plastic is a commonly used plastic in industry throughout the world.
-•	Societal Factor:  safe to use thanks to its significant strength providing plenty of support to handle the immense forces when cutting.
-•	Economic Factor:  much cheaper than other suitable materials such as steel.
-•	Environmental Factor:  ABS Plastic is recyclable like many other plastics. Also does not contain the hazardous compound Bisphenol A.
-•	Aesthetic Purpose:  its vivid red color serves to clearly show the user where they can safely grab the circular saw with no risk of injury. In addition, it has a textured surface where the hand contacts the handle to prevent slipping and promote a strong grip. The rest of the surface has a glossy smooth finish.
 *Manufacturing Methods

@@ Line 766: / Line 766: @@
 =====Discussion=====
-The torque required as a result of using the equation derived in the previous part of the analysis assumes that no energy is lost due to friction, heat, or any external forces. If these were included in another analysis, then the actual amount of torque needed would be higher in order to make up for these losses in energy. In addition, it is also assumed that the materials are ideal and will not be deformed by forces acting upon them. With this in consideration, stronger materials would need to be used for higher amounts of torque to decrease the chances of the part failing during the saw’s usage. In addition, further analysis will be needed to determine the torque necessary to cut different types of materials since this analysis only deals with the acceleration of the blade without it actually cutting anything. Based on the variables in this derived equation, it is apparent that the motor will need to produce more torque for a blade with a larger diameter or larger mass. In addition, more torque will be necessary in order to accelerate the blade in a smaller period of time. Another interesting observation is that that the ratio of the radius of the shaft of the motor to the radius of the pinion shaft makes a large difference in the torque required. If the pinion has a larger radius than the motor shaft, then less torque will need to be provided (which is expected based on the relationship of torque and gear ratio). This information can be useful for an engineer if they wish to determine what sizes of shafts will be necessary inside of the machine, especially with spacial constraints on inside of the saw itself. It will also be useful in designing a saw blade to fit within a certain sized set of blade guards.
+The torque required as a result of using the equation derived in the previous part of the analysis assumes that no energy is lost due to friction, heat, or any external forces. If these were included in another analysis, then the actual amount of torque needed would be higher in order to make up for these losses in energy. In addition, it is also assumed that the materials are ideal and will not be deformed by forces acting upon them. With this in consideration, stronger materials would need to be used for higher amounts of torque to decrease the chances of the part failing during the saw’s usage. In addition, further analysis will be needed to determine the torque necessary to cut different types of materials since this analysis only deals with the acceleration of the blade without it actually cutting anything. Based on the variables in this derived equation, it is apparent that the motor will need to produce more torque for a blade with a larger diameter or larger mass. In addition, more torque will be necessary in order to accelerate the blade in a smaller period of time. Another interesting observation is that that the ratio of the radius of the shaft of the motor to the radius of the pinion shaft makes a large difference in the torque required. If the pinion has a larger radius than the motor shaft, then less torque will need to be provided (which is expected based on the relationship of torque and gear ratio). This information can be useful for an engineer if they wish to determine what sizes of shafts will be necessary inside of the machine, especially with spacial constraints on inside of the saw itself. It will also be useful in designing a saw blade to fit within a certain sized set of blade guards. In order to conduct a proper analysis on the saw blade, an experimental approach would probably be needed to find out what the optimal parameters are for the saw's design. If there is a certain predetermined time that the saw is required to accelerate in, then the design of the saw would need to be tested to see if it can accelerate that fast and still be able to cut through material effectively given the design chosen.
 ==='''Design Revisions'''===

@@ Line 750: / Line 750: @@
 =====Diagram=====
 [[File:Group15F2012_SBdiagram.jpeg|600px|]]
-:Figure 7. Diagram of relations between saw blade, pinion shaft, and motor.
+:Figure 7. Diagram of relations between saw blade, pinion shaft, and motor. Note: #1 in diagram represents the point where the pinion shaft makes contact with the saw blade.
 In this model, the following assumptions are made; the saw is modeled as a solid disk, parts to not degrade or deform over time, all power supplied to the motor is used to generate torque, no energy loss due to heat or friction, components are not subjected to any other forces, saw will be accelerating without making contact with material being cut, any form of air resistance against saw blade during acceleration is negligible, gears and pinion shaft do not slip, and the time needed to accelerate the blade has already been predetermined by the engineer.

@@ Line 12: / Line 12: @@
 == Product Archaeology: Product Evaluation ==
-The following is a table which lists the components of the circular saw. The table lists the name, quantity, number of times used, function, material of construction, and manufacturing process of each part. This was done to examine how each part was made and why it was made. In addition, the material of construction and reasons for using a certain material are also listed.
+The following is a table which lists the components of the circular saw. The table lists the name, quantity, number of times used, function, material of construction, and manufacturing process of each part. This was done to examine how each part was made and why it was made using a certain manufacturing process. In addition, the material of construction and reasons for using a certain material are also listed.
 ==='''Component Summary'''===