Spring semester 2007, the Manhattan Group came to IIT seeking advice regarding the improvement of their paper shredder. The paper shredders are manufactured in China and sold across the world,... Show moreSpring semester 2007, the Manhattan Group came to IIT seeking advice regarding the improvement of their paper shredder. The paper shredders are manufactured in China and sold across the world, including the United States, under the Royal brand name. Each year, over a million paper shredders are sold. Consumers want paper shredders that are quiet and long lasting and are available at the lowest possible price. The Manhattan Group has asked us once again, the students of IPRO 321 and Professor Maurer, for the fourth straight semester to seek potential methods and problems in their shredder. These include improving the sound reduction, the gear optimization, and other features. The MMAE lab and machine lab will be used extensively for gear, sound, and material testing and design. Software resources, sound measuring equipment, and EE equipment will be used as well. Potential legal and/or ethical issues will involve patents and idea ownership. Since this a sponsored IPRO, all discoveries will be property of Mr. Seth Lewis and the Manhattan Group. This potentially could be an issue where this IPRO will be unable to provide necessary information to the IPRO office regarding work and progress due to ethics. Show less
