Prototype 1

For our first prototype, we based our design on a clothespin. It features a spring (shown below in grey) that provides a compressive force at the rounded edges, which pinch together to close a resealable bag, as shown below. Additionally, the device features a rotatable blade, which is used to open the resealable bag. The blade can be flipped up to be moved out of the way when closing the bag.

Screenshot of the device in CAD in the opening position. It is made of two halves held together by a pin that acts as a hinge. The two halves are spread apart like a clothespin would be. Additionally, the blade is in the down position.
Opening Position
Screenshot of the device in CAD in the closing position. It is made of two halves held together by a pin that acts as a hinge. The two halves are pressed together like a clothespin would be. Additionally, the blade is in the up position.
Closing Position

Due to time constraints and the design still being a rough idea, we did not proceed with physical production. During our first design review with Professor Lai, we were advised to change the pinching mechanism for closing to a roller mechanism instead. Additionally, we were advised to change the opening mechanism from a swinging blade to a fixed blade.