Based on our early ideation, we decided to continue with our sheet metal model, as initial testing proved successful. We learned that the bamboo stick model kept the waffle maker too open, which impacted waffle quality. The thin sheet metal, however, was able to keep the waffle maker closed enough for its waffles to have similar quality to the unmodified waffle maker.

After the test, we discussed our next steps to develop our product. Firstly, we plan to refine the sheet metal base by bending the sheet metal strips at accurate and precise angles, to lessen the gap created by inserting the linkage system into a closed waffle maker. This would result in a more evenly cooked waffle, making it easier for the user to remove the waffle from the base. Additionally, we want to conduct thermal analysis of the materials to ensure food safety and avoid burns and a structural analysis of the base and linkage to ensure that the waffle doesn’t tear. We also plan on switching the material from alloy steel to stainless steel to ensure the product is food safe. Another material that we plan on incorporating in silicone, as it’s food-safe as well and would be useful to add onto the handles, and overall making Waffle Up even more user-friendly. 

A few more features that we’re planning to add to our prototype include a precise hole in the base of the linkage which aligns the waffle maker and the linkage system, as well as stopper components which will hold the linkage system in its upright position so that no extra effort is required to hold the waffle up. We also plan on laser cutting all of the linkage pieces as it’s cheaper than 3D printing them and gives us stiffer pieces to work with.