Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello,

This is posted on behalf of a group of eighth graders for a Science Fair project.
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Our group selected the topic of creating clip-on pockets for clothes which do not have any or enough pockets. The clip-on pockets could be used to hold cell phones, asthma inhalers, EpiPens, wallets, and or other necessary items. The current idea is to stitch together pockets first (two pieces of fabric), then pin them onto clothes using multiple pin brooch backs such as shown here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1205821585/ . The brooch pin backs would be sewn to the pockets first. We have also considered using strong magnets as part of the design, but magnets would not all be parts of the pocket and could be lost. We are also considering using either buttons or zippers for pocket closures to make them more secure.

The questions for the experts here are:

- What prototyping and testing steps would you suggest before finalizing a pocket design?

- What advice could you give us about materials to be used for this?

- Would you have any other ideas or advice for this project?

Thank you so much,
Katie, Nina and Serena

Hello!

This is a very interesting idea. Creating clip-on pockets for clothes is a smart and practical solution, especially for carrying important items like phones, inhalers, or EpiPens. Before finalizing your design, try sketching out different shapes, closures (In my peronal opinion, I feel like zippers or Velcro would work best), and ways to attach the pockets (you have to remember that you don't want this falling off so make sure it will be very secure). Make a few simple prototypes initially using scrap fabric and them using sturdy fabric like canvas or nylon, and test them by wearing them during different activities. Ask friends or classmates for feedback, and use that to improve your design. Strong stitching, and secure closures will help make your pocket both useful and safe. You also have to think that someone might forget it on their cloths and wash it by accident, or spill food/drinks on it, so I would try to make it washable. Great job thinking this through so carefully!

Katie, Nina and Serena -

Calixte has given you some great feedback and things to think about for your clip-on pockets project.

This is a great engineering design project, and I just wanted to add to the conversation to point out the Engineering Design Project diagram here: https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... cess-steps

If your students are not already using it, it may be helpful as they think about the steps of this type of project (which is different from a scientific method project). They are already doing brainstorming in preparation for prototyping, which is great.

(If they need to use the scientific method instead, then the comparison video on that page can help for thinking through how to do that with a project like this.)

I hope you'll share how the project goes!

Amy
Science Buddies