WholeProductAnalysis

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Product Analysis

Component Function and Component Form
Part: Large Housing Gasket

Function: Seals joint between engine housing and carburetor/choke plate. This ensures that no outside air or debris can enter the fuel mixture.
Associated Flows: Gasoline and air flow between the carburetor and combustion chamber.
Function Environment: High heat due to proximity it’s to the engine.
General Shape:: It is flat with a hole in the center, it is a two dimensional plane that looks like a circle but there are eyelets around the exterior so it can be held in place with a screw.
Notable Properties: The gasket is flexible and will create an airtight seal so that nothing can contaminate the fuel mixture.
1/2/3 Dimensional: It is 2 dimensional; the height of the component is negligible.
Dimensions: 2.75 inch diameter center hole, the circular part of the product has a diameter of roughly 3.0 inches.
Relation of Shape to Function: This part is shaped so that it makes a completely sealed connection between the engine housing and the plastic casing of the weed wacker. It makes it so that no outside debris can enter the fuel mixture. The part is also flat so that it fits in between the two connected parts, and it also has a large hole in the center.
Weight: Less than 1 ounce
Material: Synthetic rubber
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Die cutting could be used to make this component because it is a flat (2-D) pieces made out of synthetic rubber. This is exactly the kind of part that die cutting is very efficient at making.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Since the parts overall function is to keep an airtight connection the most important material property of the housing gasket is that it is airtight. This component must also be cheap to buy and manufacture because this is not an aspect of a weed wacker where a company would want to invest a lot of money.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Global – Genuine rubber is expensive and must be grown in foreign countries,
- Economic- Synthetic rubber is an acceptable alternative to real rubber, and is cheaper.
Aesthetic Properties: There are not really any aesthetic properties that go with this component since it is not visible when the machine is assembled.
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is strictly functional, and is not even visible when the machine is put together.
Color and Why: This component is black because this is the color of most synthetic rubber on the market. Color is not important because this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Surface Finish: Raw from original sheets of synthetic rubber that were later die cut no other finishing processes were necessary for this component.
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, as using the raw finish is much cheaper than refinishing, and fine finish is not necessary.

Part: Small Housing Gasket

Function: Seals joint between engine housing and cylinder to prevent rattling.
Associated Flows: There is no flow between these two parts.
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine.
General Shape:: Flat hexagonal shape with hole in center.
Notable Properties: The gasket is flexible and will create an airtight seal so that nothing can contaminate the fuel mixture.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 2 Dimensional, the height of the product is negligible.
Dimensions: 1.9375 inch diameter center hole, irregular outer dimensions.
Relation of Shape to Function: This part is shaped so that it makes a completely sealed connection between the engine housing and the plastic casing of the weed wacker so that no outside debris can enter the fuel mixture. The part is also flat so that it fits in between the two connected parts
Weight: Less than 1 ounce
Material: Synthetic rubber
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Die cutting could be used to make this component because it is a flat (2-D) pieces made out of synthetic rubber. This is exactly the kind of part that die cutting is very efficient at making.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Since the parts overall function is to keep an airtight connection the most important material property of the housing gasket is that it is airtight. This component must also be cheap to buy and manufacture because this is not an aspect of a weed wacker where a company would want to invest a lot of money.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Global – Genuine rubber is expensive and must be grown in foreign countries,
- Economic- Synthetic rubber is an acceptable alternative to real rubber, and is cheaper.
Aesthetic Properties: There are not really any aesthetic properties that go with this component since it is not visible when the machine is assembled.
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is strictly functional, and is not even visible when the machine is put together.
Color and Why: This component is black because this is the color of most synthetic rubber on the market. Color is not important because this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Surface Finish: Raw from original sheets of synthetic rubber that were later die cut no other finishing processes were necessary for this component
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, as using the raw finish is much cheaper than refinishing, and fine finish is not necessary.

Part: Carburetor Gasket

Function: Seals joint between carburetor and choke to prevent fuel leakage
Associated Flows: Gasoline and air
Function Environment: High heat due to proximity to engine
General Shape:: Flat with hole in center
Notable Properties: The carburetor gasket is air and fuel tight, and is also flexible.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 2 Dimensional, height is very small and negligible compare with the depth and width.
Dimensions: .5625 inch diameter center hole, irregular outer dimensions
Relation of Shape to Function: This part is shaped so that it makes a completely sealed connection between the carburetor and the engine block. It is necessary that it creates an air and fuel tight seal so that nothing can contaminate the gasoline.
Weight: Less than 1 ounce
Material: Synthetic rubber
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Die cutting could be used to make this component because it is a flat (2-D) pieces made out of synthetic rubber. This is exactly the kind of part that die cutting is very efficient at making.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Since the parts overall function is to keep an airtight connection the most important material property of the carburetor gasket is that it is airtight and fuel tight. This component must also be cheap to buy and manufacture because this is not an aspect of a weed wacker where a company would want to invest a lot of money.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Global – Genuine rubber is expensive and must be grown in foreign countries,
- Economic- Synthetic rubber is an acceptable alternative to real rubber, and is cheaper.
Aesthetic Properties: There are not really any aesthetic properties that go with this component since it is not visible when the machine is assembled.
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is strictly functional, and is not even visible when the machine is put together.
Color and Why: This component is black because this is the color of most synthetic rubber on the market. Color is not important because this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Surface Finish: Raw from original sheets of synthetic rubber that were later die cut no other finishing processes were necessary for this component
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, as using the raw finish is much cheaper than refinishing, and there is no need to refine.

Part: Magneto Wire

Function: Forms the connection between the magneto and the sparkplug. It provides the path for the electric current to travel so the engine can produce a spark.
Associated Flows: An electric current flows from the magneto to the sparkplug.
Function Environment: High heat due to proximity it’s to the engine.
General Shape:: Long and thin wire.
Notable Properties: The wire is flexible so that it can snake through the engine as necessary; the wire is also conductive to electrical current.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 1 dimensional, height and width are negligible compared to its length.
Dimensions: 8 inches long
Relation of Shape to Function: The wire is long and thin so that it can easily maneuver inside the protective casing of the engine and still connect the magneto to the sparkplug. The wire is designed to be small enough so that it does not take up an excessive amount of space.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Copper wire, Plastic insulation
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Copper can easily be drawn into wire and is also is very conductive, yet relatively cheap so it was chosen for the wire. A plastic coating can easily be added to insulate the wire and make sure it does not come in contact with the metal components of the engine.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: The wire must be conductive for it to perform its function while the plastic insulation must be non-conductive in order for it to accomplish its function, and protect the wire and user.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economic - Copper and plastic are two materials that are relatively cheap but still have the necessary properties to perform their function.
- Global - Both of these materials are available in many areas throughout the world.
- Social- The plastic insulation provides protection for any user.
Aesthetic Properties: Black plastic
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Black, for no reason other than simplicity in mass producing black plastic insulation.
Surface Finish: The outer insulation is smooth, and the wire has good surface finish
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function by having the insulation of the wire be smooth it reduced chance of having the wire get caught on any of the internal parts.

Part: Crank Shaft Housing

Function: Holds crankshaft in place and makes sure that nothing can get in the way of the moving crankshaft. It covers the point of connection between the crankshaft and the piston.
Associated Flows: Translational energy is transferred from the piston to the crankshaft in the form of rotational kinetic energy.
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine.
General Shape:: Irregular, but most similar to a box because it has four side.
Notable Properties: Lightweight and since it is made out of aluminum it is more resistant to heat than other metals.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: At widest point, 5.5 inches, highest point, 4.75 inches, longest point, 4.375 inches
Relation of Shape to Function: Multiple flanges to allow for secure attachment to other parts of the product to prevent undesired movement. This component also has ridges to add to its overall strength. The shape of this component also allows it to completely protect the components it houses.
Weight: 13 ounces
Material: Aluminum
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Surfaces are slightly tapered to enable die cast production.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: By making this part out of aluminum it is much lighter yet maintains the same strength as a similar part made out of steel.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Part is made out of aluminum instead of steel for weight reduction, at the price of increased cost.
- Economic- since the part is made out of aluminum it is more expensive than if it were made out of steel
Aesthetic Properties: Rough, raw aluminum
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it cannot be seen when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the natural color of aluminum and there is no need for this part to be painted.
Surface Finish: Raw aluminum
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, this part is internal and not visible when product is assembled. Aluminum does not oxidize, so there is no need to coat it with paint of other protective material.

Part: Cylinder

Function: The cylinder the place where the power created for the entire process.
Associated Flows: A gasoline and air mixture goes in. Combustion occurs, and mechanical energy is produced by the piston moving up and down
Function Environment: Extreme heat because this is where the combustion is occurring.
General Shape:: Similar to a pyramid with slits going up the sides.
Notable Properties: It is symmetrical in 2 ways.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 dimensions
Dimensions: wide 5. 5 inches, long 4.75 inches, high 4.5inches
Relation of Shape to Function: The shape of the outside is not very important it just has to it into a space. The inside has a very important shape. It is where the piston goes in to create the power of the machine.
Weight: 20 ounces
Material: Aluminum
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The cylinder was die cast which allowed it to be made of metal which was required because of the heat that it needs to contain.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: It needs to be able to withstand extreme heat.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Social- It was made out of aluminum to keep it light.
Aesthetic Properties: Rough, raw aluminum
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it cannot be seen when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the natural color of aluminum and there is no need for this part to be painted.
Surface Finish: Raw aluminum
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, this part is internal and not visible when product is assembled. Aluminum does not oxidize, so there is no need to coat it with paint of other protective material.

Part: Piston

Function: Capture the energy released from combustion of the gasoline, and turn the crankshaft.
Associated Flows: Mechanical translational energy
Function Environment: High heat (because it is physically in the combustion chamber, and fast translational motion are here.
General Shape:: The piston is a cylindrical and it is open on the bottom so that the piston arm has the ability to move freely in one plane.
Notable Properties: Axially symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1 inch in diameter, 1.5 inches tall
Relation of Shape to Function: The piston has to be round so that it fits in the cylinder tightly.
Weight: 5 ounces
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The piston had to be made out of metal because of the environment it performs in, because of this the component had to be cast and then machined so it could achieve the appropriate precision.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength, rigidity, durability, and ability to perform well in high heat environment.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economic- the material chosen for the component was steel; which is a relatively cheap metal.
Aesthetic Properties: Very smooth, shiny
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this piece is not visible when the machine it put together.
Color and Why: Silver, because that is the color of raw steel
Surface Finish: Very fine and smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, this part must have very high tolerances to function correctly. The smooth finish allows the piston to move easily inside the cylinder.

Part: Flywheel

Function: The flywheel spins in a circle and there are magnets attached to it and as these magnets move past the magneto wire they create an electric current that is used for the spark.
Associated Flows: The flywheel has rotational energy and it is where the electrical energy is created.
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine, and extremely fast rotational motion.
General Shape:: The flywheel closely resembles a cylinder, but the top is not completely flat. It has tall fins on the top.
Notable Properties: Nearly axially symmetric, but it is perfectly balanced.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: 4 inch diameter, about 1.5 inches high
Relation of Shape to Function: Component is round and it rotates extremely fast during operation. Any irregular shape would cause it to wobble as it spun and would eventually destroy the engine and harm the user with vibrations; meaning it needed to be circular.
Weight: About 8 ounces
Material: Aluminum, ceramic magnets
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The magneto had to be made out of metal because of the stresses endures therefore it had to be die cast
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength and lightweight
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – manufactured out of aluminum to make product lighter and easier to turn when spun, at the expense of cost.
- Economic- it is made out of aluminum so it is more expensive than making it out of other materials
Aesthetic Properties: Raw, unfinished aluminum
Aesthetic Purpose: None, component is not visible during use.
Color and Why: Silver, because that is the raw color of aluminum.
Surface Finish: Rough
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, the part does not contact other moving parts in a significant way, so rough surface finish is used to cut cost.

Part: Magneto

Function: A current is created when magnets pass by the magneto, this current is then used to create a spark and ignite the gasoline.
Associated Flows: Electricity and magnetism
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine
General Shape:: The magneto is irregularly shaped, similar to a pentagon.
Notable Properties: Very irregular shape, it is manufactured to be this shape so that it fits into the designated space. The most important feature it that it needs to carry a charge, and be well insulated.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: very irregular, approximately 1.5 X 1.5 X 1 inches
Relation of Shape to Function: None, part does not move, so there is no need for specific part geometry, it just needs to fit into a provided space.
Weight: Approximately 5 ounces
Material: This interior of the magneto is made out of steel, and the outside insulation is made out of plastic.
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Since the material used had to be able to carry a charge so steel was the most logical choice to make a good charge carrying wire was to draw it then press them together and coat them in plastic.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Attraction to magnets and ability to carry a charge.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Social- Steel was chosen over other conductive materials because it is more readily available than other materials. The plastic casing also adds protection to the user.
- Economic- Steel was chosen over other conductive materials because it is cheaper than other materials.
Aesthetic Properties: Very irregular and odd it is black and the bottom is painted red
Aesthetic Purpose: None it is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: The plastic insulation on the magneto is black because it was cheaper to mass produce that plastic, and the plastic on bottom is red because then it shows what side points in which direction.
Surface Finish: Rough, forged parts. No need for higher finish because part is internal and not visible when product is assembled
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, rough finish reduces cost and does not hurt the ability to perform the function.

Part: Carburetor

Function: Regulate the amount of gasoline and air that enter the engine.
Associated Flows: Gasoline and air
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine.
General Shape:: Irregular, but rather box like.
Notable Properties: The carburetor does not have any notable geometric properties.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1.5 X 1.5 X 1.5 inches
Relation of Shape to Function: None, part does not move so no specific geometry is required
Weight: About 5 ounces
Material: Brass and steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The carburetor is made using a variety of different pieces many of which are flat and made out of metal so they were most likely forged. The main body of the carburetor was made with casting and the center hole looks like it was milled.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Brass does not rust, but it is expensive. Therefore, it is used on the internal parts that cannot rust without disrupting engine function. Steel is used for the rest because it is cheap and strong, but it may oxidize
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Environmental – This part is responsible for adjusting fuel and air flow to produce the most power out of the engine while using as little gasoline as possible releasing less pollution into the environment.
Economic- It can help raise the fuel efficiency of the weed wacker.
<b>Aesthetic Properties: Irregular shape; it looks a little awkward because it is made of so many different materials.
Aesthetic Purpose: None, not immediately visible when product is assembled
Color and Why: Raw steel and brass because part is not immediately visible when product is assembled.
Surface Finish: Raw steel and brass
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, part is not visible so parts can be left unfinished to reduce cost.

Part: Crankshaft

Function: Converts the translational motion from the piston into the rotational motion and then transfers it to the clutch.
Associated Flows: Rotational mechanical energy
Function Environment: High heat due to its proximity to the engine, and very fast rotational motion.
General Shape:: Long and thin, with offset weights and pin at one end
Notable Properties: Round and smooth
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional. Unlike a wire, the radius is significant
Dimensions: The diameter of the long rod has a diameter of about .25 inches and the diameter of the offset weights have a diameter of .5 inches, the long rod portion is approximately 6 inches long.
Relation of Shape to Function: Component rotates very quickly, so it must be smooth and round. Offset pin and counterweights enable transformation of mechanical energy. This part must have a long cylinder so that it can rotate freely and there will not be a large power loss in this process.
Weight: About 8 ounces
Material: Hardened Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The crankshaft must be made out of metal because of the strenuous environment it is in, the part must also be very precise so it is cold rolled and then milled. The counter weights must be made out of metal for similar reasons, but since the precision is not as vital to the function it can be die cast.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Shaft must be extremely smooth and perfectly round to spin without vibration or excessive friction.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economical- Because it is cast first it is much cheaper than any other process would have been.
- Environmental- Casting cuts down on the waste that is created during production.
Aesthetic Properties: Very smooth and shiny shaft
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the color of raw steel.
Surface Finish: Very fine on shaft, rough on counterweights
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, smooth finish allows shaft to rotate correctly with limited friction between parts, while counterweights are rough because they do not contact other parts meaning that there is no need to spend the extra time or money to give it a fine finish.

Part: Bearing

Function: Creates a smooth surface for the rotating crankshaft.
Associated Flows: The crankshaft spins inside of the bearing.
Function Environment: High heat due to proximity it’s to the engine, and high rate of rotational motion.
General Shape:: Round with hollow center
Notable Properties: Axially symmetric
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: about 1 inch diameter, .33 inch high
Relation of Shape to Function: Must be round to enable rotation of the crankshaft. It must also be round to also allow internal ball bearings to roll smoothly.
Weight: Approximately 2 ounces
Material: Hardened Steel internal ball bearings, plastic guards
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The bearing must be strong and smooth so they are made out of metal and are cast and then polished to achieve the high precision necessary
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Extreme smoothness and tight tolerances.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economical- Casting cut down on cost compared to other possible methods like milling.
- Environmental- Casting cuts down on the waste produced in forming the product.
Aesthetic Properties: Very smooth and shiny
Aesthetic Purpose: None, not visible when product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the color of raw steel
Surface Finish: Very smooth and shiny
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, as the bearing must be very smooth to allow the internal bearings to roll without friction or hindrance.

Part: Clutch

Function: Transmit rotational motion from crankshaft to the main shaft.
Associated Flows: Rotational motion
Function Environment: High heat due to that fact that it has high friction when engaged.
General Shape:: Ovular and flat
Notable Properties: Axially symmetric in one plane
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 2.5 inched wide by 1.5 inches tall
Relation of Shape to Function: It must be round on either end to properly contact shroud to transmit motion.
Weight: about 6 ounces
Material: Steel and spring steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: This pat must be strong so it is made out of metal and it is cast and machined
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: The part must be heavy enough for its tangential velocity to overcome its centrifugal acceleration and expand to contact the shroud. The spring must also be strong enough so that it does not snap or break while the part is spinning.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:None
Aesthetic Properties: Unfinished Steel
Aesthetic Purpose: None, the component is not visible while the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the color of raw steel
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Smooth enough to prevent damage to shroud, but rough enough so that it can grip the shroud and spin the main shaft.

Part: Pull Start Mechanism

Function: The pull start rotates the engine manually to start the engine cycle.
Associated Flows: Rotational motion, and human signal and human energy
Function Environment: Standard pressure and the parts are contained completely outside of the main casing.
General Shape:: Round cylinder with protruding handle
Notable Properties: Mostly axially symmetric, except for mounting holes
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches in diameter, 1.5 inches high
Relation of Shape to Function: Must be round to rotate inside casing
Weight: About 4 ounces
Material: Plastic housing pieces, and a nylon rope
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Parts do not have to be precise to function properly, so there are obvious marks from injection molding
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: None necessarily, besides the light weight of plastic and flexibility of rope.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Smooth handle to prevent cuts and abrasions to the user.
- Economical- Plastic and rope are both cheap to manufacture.
Aesthetic Properties: Smooth handle and all of the parts have a rough finish.
Aesthetic Purpose: The point of the shape of the housings is so that it can make a nice transition for the protective casing to the main shaft.
Color and Why: Black, to compliment color scheme of the product
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function the smooth handle provides good ergonomic and so that when a person holds it the part does not cut open their hand.

Part: Clutch Shroud and Casing

Function: Transfers rotational energy from the crankshaft to the spring shaft.
Associated Flows: Rotational motion
Function Environment: High heat due to the speed at which the parts move and the friction between the parts.
General Shape:: Conical
Notable Properties: Axially symmetric in 2 planes
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 4 inches high and 2.5 inches wide and 2 inches long (dimensions taken from the top of the cone).
Relation of Shape to Function: Round and larger in diameter than contracted clutch, but smaller in diameter than extended clutch. Allows clutch to grab shroud when extended, and spin the shroud.
Weight: Approximately 8 ounces
Material: Plastic housing, steel cone
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Steel cone did not have to be perfectly manufactured to high tolerances, so it was likely extruded as a pipe and then forged into its current shape. The plastic housing shows marks of injection molding, indicating that also did not require high precision.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: The steel cone must be strong enough to withstand the torque and friction of the expanding clutch.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – The plastic casing is thick to prevent user injury from the cone, which may become hot during operation, and being plastic it is very light.
- Economic – The casing of the shroud could be made out of metal but it is made out of plastic to save on cost.
Aesthetic Properties: Smooth black plastic casing
Aesthetic Purpose: Provide a smooth cover for the shroud
Color and Why: Black to compliment product color scheme and so that the parts are protected from rusting.
Surface Finish: Smooth black plastic casing, smooth steel shroud
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Both. The casing is smooth for ergonomics and dyed black to match the rest of the product. The internal shroud is painted black so that it does not rust

Part: Washer

Function: Reduces friction in clutch shroud.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: High heat due friction in the clutch shroud.
General Shape:: Flat, round
Notable Properties: Axially symmetric
1/2/3 Dimensional: 2 Dimensional
Dimensions: .125 inch high and 1 inch diameter
Relation of Shape to Function: Flat and round to fit in between rotating parts.
Weight: About 1 ounce
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Edges do not have to be to high tolerance, so the product was forged.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength and smoothness of steel are preferred.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Reduce vibrations to provide a more comfortable experience for the user.
- Economic- Forging was used because the size did not have to be extremely accurate, and that is cheaper than milling.
- Environmental- forging allows for less waste than other methods.
Aesthetic Properties: Flat, round
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Black because this part is likely used on several different products, and it is economical to make them all the same color. Since this object in not visible on this product, its color is irrelevant.
Surface Finish: Smooth surface, rough edges
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: The smooth surface reduced friction in moving parts. The edges do not make contact with other parts, so their finish does not matter.

Part: Head Spring

Function: Create tension in head to allow for automatic line feeding.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: Possibly high heat due to friction.
General Shape:: Cylindrical
Notable Properties: Flexible, with good material memory
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: 1.5 inches long, .5 inch diameter
Relation of Shape to Function: Round because it fits around main shaft, which is also round.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Spring steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: This part had to be made out of metal so that it could hold up the stresses it endures over the course of its life. This part was likely extruded and then physically formed into shape, there are no obvious marks on the product, besides the ends where it is clear that they were cut from stock.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Geometric memory of springs
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Allows more line to be fed to the head without the user being required to disassemble and feed it through manually
Aesthetic Properties: Smooth, shiny
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver, because that is the color of raw steel
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Functional, it is a byproduct of the extrusion manufacturing process, and there is no need to modify it, the component could perform its function regardless of surface finish.

Part: Trigger Mechanism

Function: Provide ergonomic way to pull throttle cable and provide information to the engine.
Associated Flows: Translational mechanical movement provided by the user and a human signal.
Function Environment: Standard temperature and pressure
General Shape:: Irregular, it is shaped like a gun trigger but it much larger.
Notable Properties: Symmetric in one plane
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Irregular shape, but approximately 2 X 2 X 1 inches.
Relation of Shape to Function: Trigger forms a lever and depressing the trigger pulls on the throttle cable; making it easier to control the power output.
Weight: Approximately 3 ounces
Material: Plastic
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: There is no reason to make the trigger out of anything besides plastic. Our specific trigger show marks from injection molding on surfaces that are hidden from the user.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength of the plastic. Weaker materials may not be able to withstand the forces necessary to pull the throttle cable.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – The trigger is made of smooth plastic, to prevent any abrasion to the user. Also, it forms a lever to make pulling the throttle cable easier.
- Economic- By making the trigger out of plastic it is substantially cheaper than one made out of steel or aluminum.
Aesthetic Properties: Smooth black plastic
Aesthetic Purpose: Match the look of the rest of the outer casing.
Color and Why: Black, to match the color scheme of the product.
Surface Finish: Smooth from injection molding.
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Functionally, a rougher surface may be better because it would provide more grip for the user.

Part: Support Handle

Function: Provides a safe place for the user to hold to carry and control the product.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: Standard temperature and pressure.
General Shape:: Modified trapezoid
Notable Properties: Symmetric on two planes
1/2/3 Dimensional:3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 6 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 1 inch thick.
Relation of Shape to Function: The trapezoid shape gives the user ample space to place his hand while also providing a single attachment point to the main shaft.
Weight: Approximately 4 ounces
Material: Plastic
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Component shows obvious marks of injection molding.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength of plastic. Weaker materials may not be able to support the weight to the product.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Makes the machine more comfortable for the end user by providing a handle that is rotated to be perpendicular to the shaft for comfort, as well as extended away from the shaft to minimize strain on the back of the operator. Being made of plastic also makes the weed wacker lighter than if it were made of metal.
Aesthetic Properties: Smooth black plastic
Aesthetic Purpose: None, its purpose is merely functional.
Color and Why: Black, to match the color scheme of the product.
Surface Finish: Smooth from injection molding, however the component had gone under additional process because it had a coarse texture that was clearly intentional.
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Functional, the part is used to make carrying the weed wacker easier.

Part: Air Filter and Casing

Function: Remove debris from air that is entering the engine to prevent damage and extend the life of the components.
Associated Flows: Air flows into the carburetor
Function Environment: Standard temperature, possible fluctuations in air pressure due to vacuum effect.
General Shape:: Rectangular
Notable Properties: Air can flow through the filter but larger debris particles cannot move through the filter.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 3.5 X 2 X 1 inch.
Relation of Shape to Function: The shape of the casing provides space for foam insert that filters the air.
Weight: 4 ounces
Material: The casing is made out of plastic and the air filter is made out of foam.
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The casing of the filter did not need to be made out of anything specific, but plastic and this part was made out of injection molding because it is very economically sound.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: The plastic has to be strong enough to withstand engine vibrations and the air filter has to be made out of a material that will let air flow through it.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economic – By removing debris from air entering the engine, the lifetime of the product is extended, extending the amount of time between replacement purchases. The casing is made out of plastic because it is cheaper and easier to manufacture than other materials.
Social- Being made of plastic reduces the weight of the machine.
Aesthetic Properties: The casing is made out of black plastic and the air filter is made out of a foam material.
Aesthetic Purpose: The air filter casing has visible holes to let air flow through the air filter.
Color and Why: Black to match color scheme of the product
Surface Finish: Smooth from injection molding
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Aesthetics provides a shiny surface.

Part: Throttle Cable

Function: The throttle cable connects the trigger to the engine throttle control; it enables the user to adjust the throttle while holding the product.
Associated Flows: Mechanical movement and it receives a signal from the user as to how much gasoline should be transported into the combustion chamber.
Function Environment: Mostly Standard temperature and pressure, but some tension when in use and higher temperatures nearer the engine.
General Shape:: Long, thin cable
Notable Properties: Axial symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 1 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 2 feet long.
Relation of Shape to Function: Long thin cable to allow for a flexible path between trigger and throttle control.
Weight: About 2 ounces
Material: Steel wire with a plastic insulation surrounding it
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The throttle cable needs to be able to maintain tension and endure higher temperatures so metal was chosen as the material. Since a metal wire was required drawing was used to create the part.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Ability to withstand tension and higher temperatures near the engine.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Provides the user the luxury of controlling the throttle without directly touching the engine
Aesthetic Properties: The only part of the throttle cable the user can see is the black plastic insulation.
Aesthetic Purpose: None
Color and Why: Black plastic to blend in with product color scheme.
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Internal smoothness is functional, because it allows the cable to slide through the casing with minimal friction. External smoothness is for aesthetics.

Part: Key Piece

Function: Stabilizes the crankshaft.
Associated Flows: This component is not directly related to any flows, however the spinning crankshaft is located directly above it.
Function Environment: Extremely fast movement and high temperatures
General Shape:: Key shaped
Notable Properties: Flat, One plane of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 2 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1.5 inches long, 1 inch wide, the height of the component is negligible.
Relation of Shape to Function: Hole allows key to fit on crankshaft, while body provides spacing.
Weight: Approximately 1 gram
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Imperfect edges due to the forging process.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Strength of steel and ability to withstand heat.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Reduces vibrations in the engine to provide a more comfortable experience for the user.
- Economical- Forging the key was cheaper than producing it by other methods.
Aesthetic Properties: Black, key shaped
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it is not visible wen the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Black, the only purpose of painting the key is so that it does not rust the color choice is irrelevant.
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, smooth surfaces reduce friction in the engine.

Part: Muffler

Function: Reduce sound output of the engine.
Associated Flows: Exhaust, noise
Function Environment: Very high temperatures and slightly raised pressures
General Shape:: Rectangular box
Notable Properties: Nearly symmetric in one plane
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 3.5 X 2 X 1 inch
Relation of Shape to Function: Provides room to muffle sound but also shaped to fit in case.
Weight: Approximately 8 ounces
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Since the muffler was made in two pieces and had to be made out of metal because of the environment it is in, the muffler had to have been die cast and the holes in it were drilled.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Ability of steel to withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Reduces noise pollution
- Environmental- Reduces pollution.
Aesthetic Properties: Black steel box
Aesthetic Purpose: Make it not stand out from the rest of the machine.
Color and Why: Black, to blend in with case as it is visible when the product is assembled
Surface Finish: Smooth from die casting and black paint.
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Aesthetics, because the muffler is visible and it is designed so that it does not stand out from the rest of the weed wacker, the finish does not change the function the component performs.

Part: Choke Plate

Function: It allows the user to control the air to fuel ratio manually.
Associated Flows: Air and gasoline
Function Environment: Standard pressure, slightly elevated temperature due to proximity of engine.
General Shape:: Flat rectangular with a hole in the center
Notable Properties: None, no symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 2 Dimensional, minus small indentations
Dimensions: Approximately 2 inches by 3.5 inches
Relation of Shape to Function: Fits between carburetor and engine casing
Weight: 4 ounces
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: This component must be made out of metal and did not need to be manufactured to high precisions so it was forged.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Ability of steel to withstand heat.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Makes starting the engine easier when engine is cold.
- Economic- Forging was the cheapest way to make this component.
Aesthetic Properties: Flat, silver
Aesthetic Purpose: None the part is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the color of raw metal.
Surface Finish: Shiny, due to original sheet of stock
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Neither, part is not visible and finish does not affect function.

Part: Kill Lever

Function: Allows the user to stop the engine at any time.
Associated Flows: Mechanical movement
Function Environment: Standard pressure, slightly elevated temperatures due to proximity of engine.
General Shape:: Bent switch
Notable Properties: No symmetry, irregular shape
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional, due to bends in the wire and handle.
Dimensions: Very irregular, approximately 4 inches long.
Relation of Shape to Function: Long and thin to avoid interference with other parts, this also makes it easier to move because it is a lever.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Steel lever with a plastic handle.
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The lever is forged and the plastic on top of the product is made using injection molding.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Rigidity of the steel lever.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Provides a simple way for the user to stop the engine.
- Economic- Forging was the cheapest way to make this component.
Aesthetic Properties: Wire with black handle
Aesthetic Purpose: None, this piece is not easily visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: The lever is silver because that is the color of raw steel; the handle is black to blend in with products color scheme.
Surface Finish: The handle and the lever are both smooth.
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: It is smooth as a byproduct of its manufacturing process, but functional in that it prevents friction with other parts. Handle is smooth for aesthetics; a textured handle would likely provide the user with better grip and not look as nice.

Part: Spark Plug

Function: Provides the electric spark that ignites the gasoline in the combustion chamber.
Associated Flows: Electricity flows from the magneto to the spark plug
Function Environment: Very high temperatures and pressures due to combustion.
General Shape:: Cylinder with widely varying radius
Notable Properties: One plane of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 2 inches long by 5/8 inch wide
Relation of Shape to Function: The most important feature of the spark plug is the gap that the spark arcs over. The plug is round and threaded to fit into end of piston, hexagonal section to allow removal with wrench, bulge at end to allow connection of wire from magneto.
Weight: Approximately 4 ounces
Material: Steel with ceramic insulation
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The steel portion of the spark plug is rolled because it is provides the necessary precision and is relatively inexpensive. The ceramic is cast around the steel part.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Ability of steel to withstand extreme heat, the conductivity of steel is necessary for the spark plug to work. The ceramic insulation has to be non-conductivity so that it does not discharge when it come in contact with any other part of the engine.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:None
Aesthetic Properties: Very detailed, small part
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it is mostly covered when the product is assembled,
Color and Why: Silver steel because that is the color of raw steel and white ceramic because this is the normal color of sparkplugs.
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, the smooth finish and precise threads allow for a tight seal to the cylinder.

Part: Spring shaft

Function: Transmit rotational motion from crankshaft to head.
Associated Flows: Rotational Motion
Function Environment: Elevated heat from friction, standard pressure, and high torque.
General Shape:: Long thin rod
Notable Properties: Very flexible with excellent geometric memory.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 4 feet long 1 inch wide and 1 inch high
Relation of Shape to Function: Must be small enough to fit inside main shaft housing.
Weight: Approximately 1 pound
Material: Spring Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The shaft had to be drawn and heated so that it would have the strength necessary to perform its function
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Elasticity of spring steel and strong enough to withstand the transfer of rotational motion from the crankshaft and the head of the weed wacker .
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – using a spring for the shaft allows for bent shaft, to minimize back strain for the user as opposed to that of a straight shaft.
Aesthetic Properties: Long with spiral markings
Aesthetic Purpose: None, not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Black, due either to metal treatment or grease staining.
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, allows shaft to rotate in housing with minimal friction.

Part: Shaft Housing

Function: The shaft housing protects the spring shaft and gives it direction. The shaft also supports the head and protects user from rotating parts.
Associated Flows: Rotational mechanical motion of the spring shaft inside the housing.
Function Environment: Standard pressure and possibly elevated temperatures due to friction.
General Shape:: Long hollow rod with a bend.
Notable Properties: One plane of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional (radius is not negligible).
Dimensions: Approximately 4 feet long, with a bend.
Relation of Shape to Function: Round to allow main shaft to rotate freely, and bent to prevent user back strain.
Weight: Approximately 2 pounds
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The pipe is made out of metal so it is strong enough to perform its function and the best way to get a pipe is to extrude it.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: High strength and ability to resist the erosion of steel.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – The bent shaft minimizes back strain for the user.
Aesthetic Properties: Long black tube
Aesthetic Purpose: Cover main shaft
Color and Why: Black, to match color scheme of product
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Internal smoothness is functional, as it allows the main shaft to spin freely, the outside is purely aesthetic.

Part: Main Casing

Function: The engine casing provides a base for engine parts to mount it also covers engine and internal parts protecting them from any impact.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: Standard Pressure, high temperature due to proximity of engine.
General Shape:: Very irregular
Notable Properties: No symmetry and few geometric shapes.
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1 foot high, 6 inches wide, and 6 inches deep.
Relation of Shape to Function: Shaped around all engine components that are to be attached and well protected.
Weight: Approximately 12 ounces
Material: Plastic
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Plastic is the best material for the main casing because it is light and relatively cheap so the best ways to make these parts would be injection molding
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Light weight of plastic, ability to withstand moderate temperatures, lack of thermal conductivity and it has to be able to protect the engine from minor impacts.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Protects the user from moving parts and the heat of the engine.
Aesthetic Properties: Very irregular plastic component.
Aesthetic Purpose: Cover engine and internal parts, however the most important purpose is to provide structure and protection to the engine
Color and Why: Grey, to provide a color scheme for product
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Aesthetics, provides a glossy surface.

Part: Head Guard

Function: Protects user from debris thrown by the rotating head.
Associated Flows: Flying debris
Function Environment: High impact, standard temperature and pressure.
General Shape:: Triangular
Notable Properties: nearly 1 plane of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: 12 X 6 X 3 inches
Relation of Shape to Function: Tip of triangle provides connection point to shaft, and fans out for maximum user protection.
Weight: Approximately 8 ounces
Material: Plastic
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: This part needed to be light weight and strong so it was made out of plastic and manufactured by injection molding.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Flexibility and light weight of plastic.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – Protects user from flying debris.
Aesthetic Properties: Triangular black plastic
Aesthetic Purpose: None
Color and Why: Black, to match product color scheme
Surface Finish: Textured
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Aesthetics, likely to maximize visibility while still protecting the user from flying debris.

Part: Elbow Spacer

Function: Separates the magneto and the cylinder.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: Standard pressure, high temperature due to its proximity to the engine.
General Shape:: U shaped
Notable Properties: Two planes of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1.5 inches long, bent
Relation of Shape to Function: It has holes at either end so that it can be held down by the screw; the component is bent so that it does not interfere with anything else.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Aluminum
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: This part would have been cast so it would have been made out of metal.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Light weight and strength of aluminum
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Social- Aluminum makes the piece lighter than if it were to be made out of steel.
Aesthetic Properties: Silver U shaped part
Aesthetic Purpose: None, it is not visible when the product is assembled.
Color and Why: Silver because that is the raw color of aluminum
Surface Finish: Rough
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Neither, its finish does not serve a purpose it is simply a byproduct of manufacturing process.

Part: Head Assembly

Function: This is the component that holds the cutting line of the material; it spins the thread so that the grass will be cut.
Associated Flows: Rotational energy received from the spring shaft.
Function Environment: Very rapid rotational motion, violent impacts with environment. Standard temperature and pressure.
General Shape:: Cylindrical
Notable Properties: One plane of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches in diameter and 1.5 inches tall.
Relation of Shape to Function: Must be round and balanced to prevent vibrations during rotation.
Weight: Approximately 1 pound
Material: Plastic
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: The parts should be injection cast because they would be made from plastic.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: Light weight and rigidity of plastic
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Societal – allows trimming line to be fed with minimal effort. The plastic helps cut back on the potential weight of the tool.
Aesthetic Properties: Round black disk
Aesthetic Purpose: Make it match the rest of the tool.
Color and Why: Black, to match color scheme of product
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Aesthetics provides gloss.

Part: Head spacer

Function: Sets head appropriate distance from main shaft.
Associated Flows: Rotational energy
Function Environment: High rotational speeds, possibly high temperature due to friction, and standard pressure.
General Shape:: Hollow tube/ cylindrical
Notable Properties: 3 Axes of symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensional
Dimensions: Approximately 1.5 inches long and 3/8 inch diameter
Relation of Shape to Function: Round so that it can be screwed onto the main shaft housing.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Extruded part would show no imperfections, and that means that metal could be used.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: High strength of steel
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economical- Extrusion is cheap compared to other methods.
Aesthetic Properties: Small black tube
Aesthetic Purpose: None.
Color and Why: Tube is painted black so that it does not stand out from the rest of the product and so that it doesn’t rust.
Surface Finish: Smooth
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Neither, just a byproduct of the manufacturing process.

Part: Screws

Function: Attach various components together.
Associated Flows: None
Function Environment: High vibration, some with high heat due to their proximity to the engine.
General Shape:: Cylindrical with threads
Notable Properties: No symmetry
1/2/3 Dimensional: 3 Dimensions
Dimensions: Range between .5 and 1 inch long and the heads range
Relation of Shape to Function: Screw is a simple component that allows parts to be held together non-permanently.
Weight: < 1 ounce
Material: Steel
Impact of Manufacturing Decisions on Material: Casting was the cheapest way to make screws so metal could be used.
Specific Material Property Necessary to Function: High strength and heat resistance of steel.
Influence of Global, Societal, Economic, Environmental Factors:
- Economical- Casting is a cheap way to make parts.
Aesthetic Properties: The exterior screws are black and the interior screws are iron colored.
Aesthetic Purpose: Black screws blend in with the rest of the components.
Color and Why: The screws on the product that are visible are painted black as to match the casing and so that they do not become severely rusted; however the other screws are unpainted
Surface Finish: Slightly textured
Surface Finish for Function or Aesthetics:: Function, prevents screws from coming loose.

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