Chapter-1-5-Major-Revised-Final Naaaaa

LYCEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY - CAVITE
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Over the years, ironing of clothes, particularly wearing well-ironed clothes have
played a part in our daily lives, for it contributes in the way we present ourselves through
our outward appearance. Ironing is done wherever garments are present, for instance, in a
single household, in a clothing industry, and the likes. An iron, particularly a clothes iron,
also known as flat iron or smoothing iron, was first known to be a household appliance
that was discovered and invented by Henry W. Seely in 1882 (History and Development
of Clothes Iron, 2017).
There are different types of clothes iron that has been developed over time, and is
continuing on progressing even up to this day. Some irons have steamers while some just
plainly use heat. In using a manual clothes iron, hands are the ones that does the job,
which requires a lot of repetitions in motion, in order to remove creases and wrinkles in a
garment. Not only that, upon ironing, folding would also then be required to ensure that
the ironed garment would remain as neat as it was ironed. Thus, ironing and folding at
most times come together when doing this certain chore. The said activity can affect
muscles, tendons, and joints that can be used thousands of times. According to Gallagher
and Heberger (2012), the risk of injury is even greater when repetitious jobs involve
awkward posture (e.g. bent or flexed wrists). One best example of this is the possible
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

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development of Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs, particularly, work-related
Musculoskeletal Disorders (wMSDs), was found as a major problem, this is caused by
performing a physical work in a long period of time having done in a repetitive motion
and other factors such as force and awkward or incorrect position/posture. Moreover,
MSDs are injuries or dysfunctions that affect one’s muscles, bones, nerves, tendons,
ligaments, joints, cartilages, and spinal discs, and are among the leading cause of lost
workdays and are associated with a large economic burden According to American
Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (2008). In United States, it has been accounted for the
one-third of all workplace injuries and injuries (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015).

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Background of the Study
Automation in ironing system tries to aid the problem of the society to decrease
the involvement of human activity and intervention that leads to fasten the production of
ironing clothes. The ironing technology has evolved from time to time, adding some
additional features for improving its safeness that will help its user to avoid some hazards
or disease. (Al-Zahrini, 2016). There are some innovation on the ironing technology with
a handheld features that still leads on the manual process of ironing. In manual process of
ironing, time and effort are needed for it to be done. It usually takes a person a day or so
in ironing a bulk number of clothes, thus, taking much of a person’s time in a day, thus
compensating time that could have been spent in some other activities. Manual ironing
requires repetitive movements in order to remove creases in a garment. Doing such
repetitive movements in a long period of time may lead to the development of MSDs.
Conducting household chores require much of a person’s time and effort. One of
these chores would be ironing of clothes. Although ironing technology have evolved as
time progressed, manual ironing, particularly in single household or even in some
businesses, are the ones still being observed even in our present time. The risk in
developing MSDs then can still then be possibly present and developed, given that
manual ironing has a handheld feature that consumes a lot of time and as stated earlier, is
done in a repetitive motion. Such issue contributed to the development and advancement

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of technology in ironing, which involved the goal of eliminating judgmental aspects of
each factor, and replacing them with automated decision-making, wherein the machine
does all the work. An extensive effort on doing household chores can be categorized as a
work. Work-related musculoskeletal disorder needs to be considered. According to the
Occupational Health Safety Associations (OSHA), work-related musculoskeletal
disorders can be defined as a disorder that affects the muscles, skeleton, and related
tissue. This disorder has been suspected of causing a worker on a clothing industry or a
person on doing extensive work in ironing (Vasanth D, Ramesh N, Fathima FN,
Fernandez R, Jennifer S, Joseph B 2015).
With all these, given our fast-paced growing environment and the advancement of
technology, the proponents were inspired by how modern irons can possibly lead to
reduce the possibility on having a work-related musculoskeletal disorder and to
improvement of minimalized time consumption spent on ironing clothes and to Thus,
leading us to a study of developing a machine that automatically irons and folds fabrics,
therefore eliminating human effort in ironing and folding clothes.

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Objective of the Study
The study entitled “Design and Development of Automated Steam Iron Machine
with Folding Mechanism” aims to reduce the time consumed on manual ironing and
folding process of clothes and the possibility of having a musculoskeletal disorder.
Specifically, the study aims:
 To design a steam ironing machine and to assemble each components such as
linear guide and linear actuators.
 To create a design for the control and the sensing unit of the machine using
microcontroller and light sensor.
 To develop a program for the whole automation process of the machine using
Arduino IDE.
 To determine the production capacity of the machine using time and motion
study.
 To test the validity of the design and development of steam ironing machine with
folding mechanism in terms of:
a. Efficiency
b. Functionality
c. User-friendliness

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Conceptual Framework
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
Parameters: Software
 Short-sleeve Development:
shirts (cotton)  Programming
Hardware Hardware
Components: Development: Automated
 Microprocessor  Fabricating Steam Iron
 Linear Guide  Circuit Machine with
 Light Sensor Designing Folding
 Electric Steamer Mechanism
 Linear Actuator Time and Motion
 DC Motors Study
 Wiper Motors
 Stepper Motors Testing, Evaluation
 Gripper Clamp and Validation
Software Components:
 Arduino IDE
Figure 1. Conceptual Framework
In figure 1, it shows the conceptual framework of the study. The input parameter
of the machine is a short-sleeve shirt with a fabric type of cotton. By integrating the
hardware and software requirements and process it through programming, fabricating,
and circuit designing, and also conducting a test in order to validate the functionality of
the machine, it will come up with the automated steam iron machine with folding
mechanism.

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Significance of the Study
The study aims to provide aid to the musculoskeletal disorder that occurs in
ironing and folding and to help its users to decrease the involvement of human activity
and to maximizing their time. Specifically, this study will benefit the following:
Laundry Shop Owners
This will benefit the laundry shop owners by adding an additional manpower and
business services for ironing and folding a clothes.
Ironing Workers
This will benefit the ironing workers to eliminate the risk of having a wMSD.
Moreover, it can also be more convenient for the elderly and even those who find it hard
to iron their clothes.
Future Researchers
Since this will be a reference and basis for the innovation and improvement that
will be used for conducting a study of the future researchers, as well as to the
advancement of the research regarding this study.

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Scope and Limitations
The machine will be programmed to de-wrinkle and remove creases in a clothes
and fold it accordingly. It will be operated in an automated process wherein the user will
only have to put the clothes on the feeder of the machine, press the button, and the
machine will then take the clothes in for ironing and folding.
The machine can take up to 6 items in the first setting and it is in a continuous
loop. It will perform properly on a particular type of clothing, short-sleeved shirts. Such
type of clothing are the only ones the machine could execute the ironing and folding
properly, given that the machine has a single folding pattern that is systemized to work
for short-sleeved shirts only. The range of sizes of the short-sleeve shirt allowable in the
machine is from unisex short sleeve shirts from extra-small (XS) with a height of 60-
64cm, shoulder width of 33-35cm, and waist width of 26-29cm up to extra-large (XL)
with a height of 70-76cm, shoulder width of 43-46cm, and waist width of 38-42cm.
Other types of clothes such as shorts, pants, long-sleeve shirts, skirts, would still
be accepted by the automated steam iron machine, although, desired results would not be
met. The said types of clothes can undergo ironing process, but it cannot be folded
properly on the folding process because the automated steam iron machine has a single
folding pattern that is only for short sleeve shirts. Moreover, the machine is also

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particular to the kind of fabric it would take in, since there are types of fabric that may be
damaged due to the presence of a steamer. Other types of fabrics such as acrylic, acetate,
nylon, polyamide, polyester, silk, and wool will be damaged because the temperature and
the pressure of the steamer is designed to work smoothly for cotton fabrics only.

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Definition of Terms
Arduino Mega
Microcontroller that is developed from Arduino is able to control the sensors and
motors. This can be used as the control unit of the machine.
Electric Iron
Portable appliance, which has an electrically heated sole-plate and is used for
ironing textile materials (International Electrotechnical Commission, 2002).
Electric Motor
An electrical components that has a capability to converts electric energy into
mechanical energy.
Electric Steam Boiler
A closed tank where the water is stored and the water is boiled by means of
electricity which become the source of steam for ironing.
Efficiency
Measurement of the machine in terms of being efficient to accomplish its given
desired process.
Linear Guide
Mechanical components that assists the movement of a motor in a straight path.

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Production Capacity Test
Type of testing in which the machine will be evaluated according to its capacity to
produce the right amount of output.
Steam Ironing
An iron having means to produce and supply steam to textile materials while
ironing. It can be provided with means to supply a shot of steam (International
Electrotechnical Commission, 2002).
Therbligs Analysis
A method used to count the number of motions, then eliminate the inefficient and
unproductive movements.
User-friendliness
Measurement of the machine in terms of its safety to its user and its difficulty to
the user.
Water Tank
This will serve as the water storage of the machine. The steam ironing process
will not work without water to steam.
Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (wMSDs)
These are injuries or dysfunctions that affect one’s muscles, bones, nerves, tendons,
ligaments, joints, cartilages, and spinal discs. They include sprains, strains, carpal tunnel
syndrome (CTS), hernias, and connective tissue injuries of these structures. (American
Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 2008).

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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
An article by Al-Zahrani (2016) showed what method and apparatus are needed to
come up with an automatic ironing machine that removes creases and wrinkles of an
article or clothes, which can be done using steam, without any part of the apparatus
touching the article or clothes. The water present needs time to undergo process before it
turns into steam. The system comprises a volumetric enclosure for receiving the article or
clothes to be steamed. Base for the support, power, enclosed volume for steamed water,
rotary engine, steam nozzle, receptacle for receiving the condensed steam, and electronic
control unit, are the ones that control all the stages of ironing operation. Without the
control unit, the whole automation process cannot be done on the machine. The machine
is automatically operated and the user only needs to hang the clothes on the automatic
steam iron machine and to remove the clothes after the ironing process (Al-Zahrani,
2016).
The inconsistencies of previous studies regarding the construction of steam boiler
of the steam ironing machine has a huge effect on the studies related on building steam
iron machine. Such studies helped on the development that caused a big innovation on
the steam boiler of the steam iron machine, which is nowadays used by the researchers to
come up with a safety structured steam iron machine. This study became a standard on

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researches that needs to construct a safe electric boiler in different applications.
According to HF Chen (2002), the malfunctioning of the design of previous steam
ironing machine led to create a design of a safety structure that gives prevention on
exploding in the water tank, due to boiling process that causes the destruction of the
machine. Explosion occurs when the water tank is emptied and the boiling process
continues on the steam ironing machine. The safety structure of the steam ironing
machine improved the capability in controlling the operation of the steam ironing
machine through the basis of the water level on the water tank.
Every type of garments has a designated temperature to remove its creases and
wrinkles without causing any damage. According to Cheriaa et al. (2016), in achieving
the safety measurements of garment in the ironing process, the temperature depends on
the thermal properties and the construction of fabric or garment. In ironing specific
garments, the temperature that will soften and remove creases and wrinkles needs to be
determined. In this study, the first group of garments include acetate, acrylic, and
polyamide. The temperature range that is needed for it to be ironed without damages is
from 108 to 112 degree Celsius. For the second group of garments, polyester, silk, wool,
and viscose, the temperature range is from 148-152 degree Celsius. Lastly, for the third
group of garments, which are linen and cotton, the temperature range allowed is from 198
to 202 degree Celsius. 14 trials were needed to test the quality of the cloth after ironing
process using an industrial iron and a steam iron.

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Relating to the study stated above, a type of fabric that needs a high temperature
to remove wrinkles and creases must use a steam iron machine for fast response. In the
article by Ridgeway (2018), entitled "Commercial Steam Iron" it stated that a commercial
steam iron machine is a tool to use for handling a large volume of clothes on ironing
process with fast time response on removing the creases and wrinkles. For constructing a
high-quality commercial steam iron machine, the design of the water reservoir must be
large enough so that one may not need to refill water on the reservoir as often as used.
And needed to use a durable materials for long and efficient operating life. The means of
removing the creases and wrinkles is steam. The steam pressure is often measured on a
bar or in PSI. A professional or commercial steam iron machine the pressure of steam
must be 3.0 bar or approximately 44psi for the maximum penetration of steam to remove
the wrinkles and creases on clothes.
Considering that ironing workers are known for doing a repetitive work done in a
repetitive motion, which is ironing and folding specifically, the study on Musculoskeletal
Disorders (MSDs) paved its way into studying the interaction between repetition and
force, and its relationship with MSDs. This is evident in the study by Gallagher and
Heberger (2013), wherein they examined the interaction amongst the three. In the course
of their study, 12 studies that allowed force-repetition interaction in relation with MSD
risk were identified, and results showed that only 10 showed a significant evidence of
interaction between the two factors. The totality of their research and their results
suggested that interdependence may be considered to be present in explaining the

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relationship between force and repetition in relation with MSD risk. It was also
concluded by Gallagher and Heberger (2013) that, repetition seems to result in modest
increases in risk for low force tasks but rapid increases in risk for high force tasks, thus,
such interaction may be a representative of a fatigue failure process in affecting tissues.
Studies showed that there are risk factors on health from ironing, and some of
which, are the work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (wMSDs). wMSDs as defined by
Occupational Safety Health Association (n.d.) are disorders of muscles, skeleton, and
related tissue, which was concluded to have been caused by one’s occupation or one’s
line of work. It is also known to be one of the leading causes of lost workdays in industry,
as it is proved and shown to be more severe as compared to average nonfatal workplace
illness, which requires longer recovery period, thus affecting lost workdays as well as
economic costs (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2008). The said disorders
was thoroughly discussed in a study conducted by KCK and Ratri (2018), entitled “Study
on prevalence of MSDs among Ironing Workers in Occupational Laundry Shops.” Their
study included 300 participants, particularly, ironing workers, with the objective of
estimating the prevalence of MSDs to their study population, and at the same time,
identifying associations between key selected factors and MSDs among their study
population. Results showed high prevalence of MSDs on ironing workers, which
garnered a percentage of 88%, as pain symptoms in shoulders (76.66%), low back pain
(54.76%), and knee pain (51.90%) were also observed among them. Furthermore,
statistical significant associations have been proved between height and weight of the

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person, working hours per day, weight of the iron box, and shoulder pain (P<0.05). The
same is true with height and weight of the person, quantity of clothes per day, and knee
pain (P<0.05).
Related Studies
According to Al-Zahrani (2016), there are two examples of automatic ironing
system that has its advantages and disadvantages depending on its use. The first example
is an automatic ironing system that contains two large presses, which possess heat and
steam. The two presses have a large surface area and is therefore much faster to use than
the manual iron. However, this large press automatic ironing system is limited to some
flat articles, such as linens. The other of automatic ironing system mentioned in his study,
comprise an upright enclosure that irons an article by means of steam. This system is for
non-flat articles or clothes. However, this type of system needs to consider that largest
article as the input. Therefore, the said system would not be energy and time efficient
when ironing a small article having small amount of load.
According to Kaushik et. al. (2014), automated ironing machine is designed as an
innovation in technology of ironing with motorized mechanism for improving the
effectiveness of ironing various clothes in terms of time and the difficulties in the task of
ironing. The assembled gear used for transferring motion to move the irons within the
chains. The two direction of movements of irons (X and Y) are based on the chain and

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sprocket mechanism. The design of the study also helps the needs of requiring a
minimum power or energy source for operation by using two stepper motors as actuators
and two manual irons. Since it is a low powered device, the automatic ironing machine
can be used in a single household.
According to Gomesh et al. (2013), a folding machine that is totally automated
and uses solar panel as its main source along with servo motor that acts as the actuator of
the machine, can fold a cloth faster than the manual process. A person can roughly fold a
single cloth with an average time of 4 seconds compared to the automated folding
machine that can do it within 2 seconds. By folding a number of 1000 clothes, a person
can get the job done in 67 minutes, while the machine only needs 33 minutes to finish it.
Therefore, the machine reduces the process on folding a cloth by half. Building an
automated folding machine that consists of microcontroller, servo motors, and relay
switches is way cheaper than a folding machine that uses computer numerical control
(CNC). Thus, it can eventually become a trend in some several industries such as clothing
lines, laundry services, hospitals, and the likes, because of its cost.
Moreover, a folding machine that consists servo motor for exerting force to the
machine, a sensor that detects the position of the cloth, and a microcontroller as the
control unit of the operation, can be used in the industry of clothing for processing a cloth
in a much lessen time of production. The automated folding machine can be a new trend
on conventional way of household chorus in terms of folding clothes because it reduces

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time on a cloth to be fold. In the clothing industry, it is cheaper to invest rather than
investing a folding machine that operates using computer numerical control (CNC)
because both can perform the same operation and principle. (Zahri and Somantri, 2018)
Synthesis
With the related literature mentioned above, previous studies and development of
automatic ironing machine by means of steam by Al-Zahrani (2016) and Kaushik et. al.
(2014) both clearly reduced the time and difficulty compared to manual ironing. Though,
their machines differ in terms of size, the mechanisms used, and types of article or
clothes their machines can accommodate. Furthermore, a recent study of a fully
automated folding machine made by Gomesh et al. (2013) proves that the use of folding
machine reduces the process of folding of clothes by half. Both ironing and folding
machine focused on saving energy and time as well as avoiding the risks of having work-
related musculoskeletal disorders (wMSDs) in doing the particular household chores.
Based from the related materials found, no study has been made as to combine
these two areas. This study was undertaken to develop an ergonomically designed
machine that will combine the concepts of the said machines into one, in which will
eliminate human labor in ironing and folding and eventually might become a trend in
industries in the near future.

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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the type of the research design, system model, flowchart,
block diagram, and the specification of the machine. It will also elaborate on the
procedure and methods of the researchers, as well as the different tests and evaluations
that will be conducted to assess the study.
Research Design
The concept of this research is to create a steam iron machine with a folding
mechanism that operates automatically. To determine if the research can achieve its
objective, the researchers use Experimental Approach wherein the machine will be
compared to the manual ironing process in terms of benefits, effectiveness, speed and
risks. The researchers will also determine the availability of the machine if it can be used
for individual ironing workers, in laundry services, or clothing manufacturing industry in
terms of its size and availability. The machine will be tested based on its efficiency,
functionality, and user-friendliness. The machine will also undergo production capacity
test, in order to determine the number of output capacity of the machine. Afterwards, the
machine will be compared to the manual process of ironing and folding of clothes.

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Research Instrument
The proponents will conduct time and motion study on the manual ironing and
folding process and in the machine. In this study, the time consumption on manual
ironing and folding process and the machine will be observed. This method will be used
to determine the production capacity of the manual process of ironing and folding, and
also the machine.
Figure 2 Motion and Time Observation Sheet

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Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) - RULA is a survey method developed
for use in ergonomic investigations of workplaces where work related upper limb
disorders are reported. RULA is a screening tool that assesses biomechanical and postural
loading overall body with particular attention to the neck, trunk and upper limbs.
Figure 3 RULA Employee Assesment Worksheet

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Project Development
Project Design and Determination of Process
Selection of Hardware and Software Components
Procurement of Components
Examination of the Components
Construction of the Machine Design and System
Testing and Evaluation of the Machine
Adjustment and Finalization of the Machine
Fabrication of Hardware and Software
Figure 4 Project Development
Figure 4 shows the proponents project development starting from project
designing and determination of process up to the fabrication of hardware and software of
the machine. Below is the detailed discussion of the project development of the machine.

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1. Project Design and Determination of Process
In this procedure, the proponents will gather ideas and plan to determine the final
design structure of the machine, its whole process, and automation.
2. Selection of Hardware and Software Components
The proponents will determine the needs of the machine in terms of proper
hardware and software components that will be used in creating the machine.
3. Procurement of Components
The proponents will check the availability of the components in the Philippine
market and gather the needed components for the construction of the machine.
4. Examination of the Components
The proponents will check the functionality of the components, whether it is
working properly and if it will meet its desired use in the machine.
5. Construction of the Machine Design and System
This procedure includes building the whole structure of the machine, integrating
the components, and creating a program that will be suited on the proper function
and process of the machine.

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6. Testing and Evaluation of the Machine
In this procedure, the machine will undergo on testing and evaluation to
determine if the constructed design and system of the machine is working
properly.
7. Adjustment and Finalization of the Machine
After conducting some tests and evaluations, changes and adjustment will be
made if there are malfunctions and technicalities. After some adjustments, the
machine needs to be finalize.
8. Fabrication of Hardware and Software
As the machine was totally finalized, it needs to undergo on the process of
fabrication. The machine, its components and program will be verified by some
professionals.

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System Model
Figure 5 Waterfall Model
Figure 5 shows the system model of the proponents will implement in this project
is the Waterfall Model. In this model, phases are processed and completed one at a time
and do not overlap. This makes the waterfall model the most viable model for the project
since the project follows a sequence to work. Each phase or sequence can be tested and
developed separately for its functionality and when done, theses phases are cascaded or
integrated together in which progress is seen steadily downwards through the phases.

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System Flowchart
Switch off
circuit
breaker
End
Press
Reset
All process stop

and goes back to
initial position
Start
Figure 6 System Flowchart

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Block Diagram
Figure 7 Block Diagram
Figure 7 shows the simplified block diagram that shows the flow of process and
the system of the machine. The microcontroller plays a big role in the machine,
accountable on the automation of the buttons, linear actuator, light dependent resistor,
temperature sensor, wiper motors, servo motors, stepper motors and limit switch. Light
dependent resistor will alert the microcontroller if there is a cloth entered in the machine.
It controls the actuator for lifting up and pressing down the steam press to the clothes.
Also, it will dictate the movement and control of the three different types of motors.
Limit switches will alert the microcontroller, if the movement of specific part hit its limit.

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Project Plan Specification
A. Machine Design
Figure 8 Isometric Side View of the Machine Design
Figure 9 Front View of the Machine Design

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Figure 10 Right Side View of the Machine Design
Figure 11 Left Side View of the Machine Design

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B. Machine Specification
Control Unit
For the control unit of the machine, the microcontroller that will be used is Arduino Mega
2560 R3. The microcontroller is accountable for the whole automation and controls of the
machine.
Figure 12 Actual Photo of Arduino (Mega 2560 R3)

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Sensing Unit
For the sensing unit of the machine, the sensor that will be used is light dependent
resistor. Light dependent resistor is a variable resistor that changes the resistance
depending on the intensity of light it detects. It will be used for sensing if there are
clothes that will be fed up before the start of the process.
Figure 13 Actual Photo of Light Dependent Resistor Module

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DC Motor
DC Motor will be used for the horizontal movement of the gripper. The operating voltage
is 12V DC, with a speed of 150rpm.
Figure 14 Actual Photo of DC motor

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Relay Module
Relay will act as a switch for the motors in the machine. Relay is a component that
operates like a switch. Most of the relay has electromagnets which will able to
mechanically operate a switching mechanism. In the machine, relay will act as a switch
for the DC Motors. The type of relay that will be used in this machine is a low trigger
relay. Two relay module will be used in this machine, a 4-channel and 8-channel relay
module.
Figure 15 Actual Photo of Relay

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Wiper Motor
Wiper Motor will be used for the folding pattern of the machine. This motor
operates at 12V DC, a stall current of 10A and a motor power of 120W.
Figure 16 Actual Photo of Wiper Motor

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Servo Motor with Gripper Clamp
This motor is accountable for the clipping of the clothes from the feeder and put it
on the platform of the machine. It operates at 5V DC, with a speed of 0.20 seconds,
output torque of 3.3 kg.
Figure 17 Actual Photo of Gripper Clamp with Servo Motor

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Stepper Motor
Stepper Motor is accountable for the vertical movement of the feeder and the horizontal
movement of the gripper. The operating voltage of this motor is 24V and a current of
30A. The step angle of this motor is 1.8 degree per step. This motor can be drive only by
a stepper motor driver.
Figure 18 Actual Photo of Stepper Motor

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Linear Guide
Linear guide is a mechanical component that supports the linear motion of the motor. In
this machine, it will be used as guide for the vertical movement of the gripper clamp and
the feeder.
Figure 19 Actual Photo of Linear Guide

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Folding Pattern
The folding motion of the machine will be lifted up by using gears that is powered by a
Wiper Motors. The folding pattern will be made out of wood.
Figure 20 Folding Pattern

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Project Testing Evaluation and Validation
The automatic steam ironing machine with folding mechanism will undergo on
different testing and evaluation procedures that the proponents will use in order to see its
functionality and if it is feasible to use in our daily life.
This testing defines the number of ironed clothes that will produced by the
machine whole cycle including the folding mechanisms to identifying the desired time for
steaming the clothes and time needed for folding. In this testing, the proponents will
conduct a test on the number of ironed clothes that will be produced in a certain period of
time.
Efficiency Test
The machine reduces the number of hand motions compared to the manual
process. To test the efficiency of the machine, the researchers will compare the number
of hand motions in manual process and in the machine. The researchers checked also
quality of the clothes that will be processed by the machine. The researchers used the
given formula in order to test the efficiency of the machine.
Manual – Automated x 100

Manual

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User-Friendliness Test
The purpose of this test is to identify if the machine are easily to use and is not
harmful from the user. In line with this, the proponents will validate the user-friendliness
of the machine by conducting a survey to the laundry shop workers and ironing workers
of Brgy. Biclatan, General Trias, Cavite, the questions under the survey comprises on
comparing the automated machine and the manual process of ironing in terms of
hazardous and harmful effects and if it is easy to use.
Functionality Test
The purpose of this test is to provide the detail of the whole functionality of the
machine. The proponents will inspect the overall desired function of the machine. The
functions will be listed and will be checked if it meet its desired operation.
Validation
For the validation, the proponents will conduct a survey within the deployment of
the prototype. The survey indicates questions that will evaluate the performance, features
and the user-friendliness on the machine. The proponents will use expert sampling in
having the number of respondents of the survey. The respondents of the survey falls
under to the laundry shop workers and ironing workers. The respondents tested and
evaluated the machine with a scale of 1 to 5 rating scale depending on their point of view.

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CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter contains the presentation of the machine design, discussion of its
work flow operation. The different testing procedures, evaluation and validation and the
interpretation of the gathered data and results. And the business model of the machine.
Presentation of Machine Design
Figure 21 Left Side View of the Machine

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Figure 22 Top View of the Machine

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Figure 23 Front View of the Machine

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Figure 24 Right Side View of the Machine

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Figure 25 Back View of the Machine

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Figure 26 Actual Photo of Linear Actuator
Linear actuator is a mechanical component that creates a motion within a straight
path. This components is accountable for lifting up and pressing down the steam press of
the machine.
Figure 27 Actual Photo of Electric Garment Steamer
Electric Garment Steamer is a device that can remove wrinkles and creases due to
steam. This is used as a heating element to heat up the metal coil attached to the metal
plate that serves as the steam iron of the machine.

46
The prototype was built for ironing and folding of clothes automatically, pressing
the start button to start the operation, reset button to reset the operation, and button for
iron only process. The prototype comprises an electronic components such as
microcontroller, wiper motors, stepper motors and its driver, servo motors, limit switches,
light dependent resistor, linear actuator, temperature and humidity sensor, and steamer.
The whole operation of the prototype was based on the actual design and the flow chapter
discussed in the previous chapter. The integration of components leads to the following
operation with the intended function of the prototype:
1. The boiling process of the steamer is manually operated. As the machine is
plugged, the machine will move to its original position. The user must switch the
steamer “ON” first in “HIGH” mode. A temperature sensor will sense the
temperature of the metal plate. If the metal plate is ready, the buzzer will activate,
indicating that the start button can be pressed.
2. The machine has three buttons, a start button, a reset button, and a button for
ironing process only. The operation of the machine will start after pressing the
start button. The start button and button for iron process is disabled until the
temperature sensor senses the desired temperature in the metal plate. The button
for ironing process will alarm the microcontroller to iron the cloth in the flat form.
3. The microcontroller powers up the DC Motor to control the vertical movement of
the gripper in the prototype. Then the stepper motor is powered up, giving a

47
horizontal movement to gather clothe. The microcontroller will power up the
servo motor to grip the cloth in the feeder.
4. The gripper then moves backward a little bit, placing the cloth under a light
dependent resistor. The light dependent resistor from the gripper will sense if the
gripper gathered a cloth. If the sensor does not sense a cloth from the gripper, the
feeder will move downward and gather the next cloth.
5. As a cloth is laid in the platform, the gripper returns to its starting position. Then,
microcontroller powers up the linear actuator and commands it to press down the
metal plate to the cloth. Ironing process takes up 20 seconds to iron the cloth then
the steam press will go back to its original position.
6. After the ironing process, then proceeds to folding process. Every movement of
the pattern has a wiper motor to give a driving force. In every position in folding
process, limit switch will indicate the microcontroller that it folds the cloth, then
proceeds to next position. The last part of the folding process is to throw the cloth
in the tray. When the cloth is place in the tray, tray moves downward.
7. In every movement, there are limit switches, it will indicate the microcontroller
that it reached its limit, proceeds to the next step.

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Results of Testing Evaluation and Validation
The proponents conducted some tests to evaluate the machine. The two objectives
of the test are to measure the production capacity and efficiency of the machine. The
results gathered in those tests were recorded and interpreted.
The proponents conducted time and motion study on the manual process of
ironing and folding. In this study, the time consumption of the three different operators
was observed, measuring the time intervals in every procedure. The standard time of the
machine will determine the production capacity output of the manual process.
The researchers conducted motion and time observation of the manual process of
ironing and folding of clothes. The study comprises of five different trials with three
different operators, one piece of cloth in each trial, and with seven procedures in order to
finish the whole process. The total selected and standard time given in the figure is the
average time being consumed for the whole manual process. The Allowances considered
for getting the standard time are the personal allowances 5%, Basic Fatigue 4%, Standing
allowance 2%, Lighting Allowance 2% (well below) and Abnormal Position Allowance
2% in total of 15% Allowance.

49
Given the formula of standard time:
Standard Time = Observe Time (Percentage allowance + 1)
Output per minute = 1 / standard time
Output per hour = Output per minute x 60
Output per day = Output per hour x 8
Table 1 Average Data for Time and Motion Study for Manual Process
In table 1, based on the time and motion study, the average standard time for the
three operators is 3.1191 minutes. The manual process of ironing and folding can produce
a total output of 19 piece per hour, and 154 pieces per day. The output capacity per day of
the manual process were determined based on 8 working hours.

50
The proponents conducted also a time and motion study on the machine to
determine its production capacity. Then the proponents compared the production capacity
of the manual process and the machine.
Based on the results of time and motion study of the machine, the time interval for
every procedure of the machine was recorded. From getting the cloth from the feeder
until it was fully processed on the machine. The standard time of the machine is 3.1137
minutes. It means that it consumes an average time of 3 minutes and 7 seconds to process
a cloth through the machine.
Table 2 Time and Motion Study of Machine
STANDARD OUTPUT PER OUTPUT PER OUTPUT PER

TIME MINUTE HOUR DAY
3.1130 0.3212 19.27 154.19
In Table 2 shows the production capacity of the machine based on the standard
time gathered on the time and motion study of the machine. The capacity of the machine
to produce an output is 19 pieces per hour and 154 pieces per day. If the machine will
operate above 8 hours, it exceeds the production capacity on manual process of ironing
and folding.

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Efficiency Test
The efficiency testing of the machine was divided into two parts. The first part is
for the quality checking of output in the machine. The second part is comparing the
number of hand motions upon using the machine to the manual process.
To test the efficiency of the machine based on the number of hand motions, the
researchers conducted therbligs analysis to gather the total number of hand motions in
manual process and in the machine. Then, the results will the used to calculate the
efficiency of the machine.
This testing discussed the quality output of the machine. The proponents checked
and determined if the clothes were processed with a good result. Thus, giving a good
quality output of the machine. Different types of clothes was used in this testing.
Note: ✓ - Good Output x – Bad Output

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Table 3.1 Output Quality Checking for Extra Small Size
TRIAL NO. CONDITION REMARKS

1 ✓ OK
2 ✓ OK
3 x Machine did not fold properly
4 ✓ OK
5 x Machine did not fold properly
6 ✓ OK
7 ✓ OK
8 ✓ OK
9 ✓ OK
10 ✓ OK
11 x Did not grip the cloth properly
12 ✓ OK
13 ✓ OK
14 ✓ OK
Table 3.1 shows the results of the output of the machine for short sleeve shirt in
extra-small sizes. Three out of five trials gives a good quality output of ironing and
folding of clothes. The researchers found out that error occurs on the gripping function
and folding function since the cloth is too small for the folding pattern of the machine.

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Table 3.2 Output Quality Checking for Small Size

1 ✓ OK
2 ✓ OK
3 ✓ OK
4 ✓ OK
5 ✓ OK
6 ✓ OK
7 ✓ OK
8 ✓ OK
9 ✓ OK
10 ✓ OK
11 ✓ OK
12 ✓ OK
13 ✓ OK
14 ✓ OK
small sizes. The machine gives a good quality of ironing and folding output for short
sleeve shirt in small size.

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Table 3.3 Output Quality Checking for Medium Size

1 ✓ OK
2 ✓ OK
3 ✓ OK
4 ✓ OK
5 ✓ OK
6 ✓ OK
7 ✓ OK
8 ✓ OK
9 ✓ OK
10 ✓ OK
11 ✓ OK
12 ✓ OK
13 ✓ OK
14 ✓ OK
medium size. The machine gives a good quality of ironing and folding output for short
sleeve shirt in medium size.

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Table 3.4 Output Quality Checking for Large Size

1 ✓ OK
2 ✓ OK
3 ✓ OK
4 ✓ OK
5 ✓ OK
6 ✓ OK
7 ✓ OK
8 ✓ OK
9 ✓ OK
10 ✓ OK
11 ✓ OK
12 ✓ OK
13 ✓ OK
14 ✓ OK
large size. The machine gives a good quality of ironing and folding output for short
sleeve shirt in large size.

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Table 3.5 Output Quality Checking for Extra Large Size

1 ✓ OK
2 ✓ OK
3 ✓ OK
4 ✓ OK
5 ✓ OK
6 ✓ OK
7 ✓ OK
8 ✓ OK
9 ✓ OK
10 ✓ OK
11 ✓ OK
12 ✓ OK
13 ✓ OK
14 ✓ OK
extra-large size. The machine gives a good quality of ironing and folding output for short
sleeve shirt in extra-large size.

57
Table 4 Therbligs Analysis in Manual Process of Ironing and Folding
Motion No. Motion Element Item Explanations

1 Reach Shirt Reaches for the shirt
2 Grasp Shirt Grabs the shirt
Holds the cloth to place in the ironing flat
Hold Shirt
3 form
Transports the cloth to place in the ironing
Transport Load Shirt
4 flat form
5 Release Load Shirt Release the shirt to the ironing flat form
6 Position Shirt Position the shirt neatly
7 Reach Spray bottle Reaches for the water spray bottle
8 Grasp Spray bottle Grabs the water spray bottle
9 Hold Spray bottle Holds the water spray bottle
10 Use Spray bottle Uses the water spray bottle
Transports the water spray bottle to the
Transport Load Spray bottle
11 table
12 Release Load Spray bottle Release the water spray bottle to the table
13 Reach Flat iron Reaches for the flat iron
14 Grasp Flat iron Grabs the flat iron
15 Hold Flat iron Holds the flat iron
Transport the flat iron to the ironing
Transport Load Flat iron
16 platform
17 Use Flat iron Uses the flat iron
Transport the flat iron to its original
18 position
19 Position Flat iron Positions the flat iron
Release the flat iron to its original
Release Load Flat iron
20 position
21 Inspect Shirt Inspects for the shirt after ironing process
23 Grasp Shirt Grabs for the shirt
24 Hold Shirt Holds for the shirt to fold
25 Position Shirt Positions for the shirt
26 Release Load Shirt Release the shirt
29 Position Shirt Positions for the shirt

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Transport the flat iron to the ironing

30 flatform
31 Use Flat iron Uses the flat iron on the left side of shirt
Transport the flat iron to its original
32 position
33 Position Flat iron Positions the flat iron
Release the flat iron to its original
Release Load Flat iron
34 posistion
35 Inspect Shirt Inspects for the shirt after ironing process
37 Hold Shirt Holds for the shirt
38 Position Shirt Position the shirt, folding the right side
39 Release Load Shirt Release the shirt to the table
41 Hold Shirt Holds for the shirt
42 Position Shirt Position the shirt, folding the left side
43 Release Load Shirt Release the shirt to the table
45 Grasp Shirt Grasbs for the shirt
47 Transport Load Shirt Finishes the folding process
48 Position Shirt Positions the shirt to the table
Release the shirt to the table, ready for the
Release Load Shirt
49 next shirt
Table 4 shows the therbligs analysis in manual process of ironing and folding of
cloth to get the number of hand motions to iron and fold a single cloth. The manual
process takes a total of 49 hand motions to finish the process.

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Table 5 Therbligs Analysis in the Machine for Full Automation Process
Motion No. Motion Elements Item Explanation

1 Reach Acrylic Sheet Reaches for the acrylic sheet
2 Grasp Acrylic Sheet Grab for Acrylic Sheet, ready to pull
Pulls the acrylic sheet, prepares to add
3 Position Acrylic Sheet shirt
4 Hold Acrylic Sheet Hold the acrylic sheet
5 Reach Shirt reaches for the shirt
7 Hold Shirt Holds the Shirt
8 Transport Load Shirt Transport the shirt to the acrylic sheet
9 Released load Shirt Release the shirt to the acrylic sheet
Position the acrylic sheet to its original
Position Acrylic
11 position
Shirt and
Inspect
12 Acrylic Sheet Inspects the shirt and the acrylic sheet
13 Reach Button Reaches for button
14 Hold Button Press the button
Release the button, the machine starts
Released load Button
15 the operation
Table 5 shows the therbligs analysis in the machine using the full automation
process to get the number of hand motions to iron and fold a single cloth. The full
automation process only needs a total of 15.

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Table 6 Therbligs Analysis for Semi-Automated Process
Motion No. Motion Element Item Explanation

1 Reach Shirt Reach for the shirt
3 Hold Shirt Holds the shirt
4 Transport Load Shirt Transport the shirt to the platform
5 Release load Shirt Release the shirt
7 Reach Button Reach for the button
8 Hold Button Press the button
Release the button and the machine
9 Release load Button
will operate
Table 6 shows the therbligs analysis in the machine using the semi-automated
process to get the number of hand motions to iron and fold a single cloth. The semi-
automated process only needs a total of 9 hand motions.
Table 7 Efficiency of the Machine
Number of Hand Motions Efficiency

Machine Manual (%)
Fully Automated 15 49 69.39
Semi-Automated 9 49 81.63
Table 7 shows the efficiency in terms of number of hand motions. The number of
hand motions in manual process and in the machine was gathered based on the therbligs
analysis. Using the formula stated, the percent of number of hand motions reduce was
gotten. Based on the results given, the machine is considered efficient.

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Functionality Test
Table 8 Functionality of the Machine
Note: ✓ - Successful x – Not Successful
TRIAL
FUNCTION
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Start button ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Reset button ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Iron Process Button ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Temperature Sensor ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Buzzer Indicator ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Sensor for Cloth Detection ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Upward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Feeder ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Downward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Feeder ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Upward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Gripper ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Downward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Forward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Backward Movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Gripping Operation of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Gripper ✓ ✓ ✓ x ✓ x x
Downward movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Linear Actuator ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Upward movement of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Linear Actuator ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Bottom part of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Folding ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Middle part of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Left part of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Right part of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Motor in Upper part of ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

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Table 8 shows the testing of the functionality of the machine. The functions listed
in the table above are the whole activities of the machine that needs to be tested. As can
be seen in the table, the proponents found out that error occurs on the gripping function
of the machine.
Respondents of the Study
Twenty respondents were identified using convenient sampling technique for the
validation, evaluation and user-friendliness test. Convenient sampling technique were
employed because of the availability and willingness of the respondents to be involved
when the survey was conducted. Those respondents are people who works for the laundry
shop and ironing workers. These respondents had a range age between 19 to 26 years old
with an average of 22.10 years old and standard deviation of 2.198 years old.
Preliminary Information
Table 9 Response of the Respondents if the Designed and Developed Iron Machine is
Easy to Use
Response Frequency Percent

Yes 18 90
No 2 10
Total 20 100

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Table 10 Response of the Respondents if the Designed and Developed Iron Machine is
Harmful to Use

Yes 13 65.00
No 7 35.00
Total 20 100.00
Table 11 Response of the Respondents if they are willing to use the Designed and
Developed Iron Machine

Yes 15 75.0
No 5 25.0
Total 20 100.0
Table 12 Mean Comparison of the Respondents’ RULA Results in Using the Regular and
Designed and Developed Iron Machine using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test
Mean
Std. Difference
Group Mean Z p-Value Interpretation
Deviation (Regular-
Developed)
Regular 7.35 0.587 The pain
4.35 -4.093 0.000** difference is
Machine 3.00 0.000
significant
Note:
For Mean: 7 Investigate and Implement Change

6–5 Further Investigation, Change Soon
4–3 Further Investigation, Change may be needed
2–1 Acceptable Posture
For p-Value: * * - With Significant Difference at 0.05 level of confidence.

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Table 13 Mean Validation on the Efficiency and User-Friendliness of the Designed and
Developed Iron Machine
Std.
Characteristics of Quality Steam Iron Mean Interpretation
Deviation
1. Produce right amount of steam with power
4.30 1.081 Very Good
temperature to iron the clothes properly.
2. Neatly iron the whole surface of clothes 4.10 0.788 Good
3. The iron surface of the machine is non-stick 4.60 0.503 Very Good
Steam Assist 4.33 0.552 Very Good
4. Response time of the machine. 3.15 0.671 Fair
5. Quickly removes the creases and wrinkles in
3.40 0.503 Good
clothes.
Time 3.28 0.444 Fair
Efficiency 3.80 0.370 Very Good
6. Ability to iron the entire clothes inserted. 3.15 0.671 Fair
7. Suitability of the machine’s size to place in
4.15 0.745 Good
your house.
Size 3.65 0.587 Good
8. Cooling down time required for the machine
4.20 0.894 Very Good
upon usage.
9. Possibility to touch the iron surface that can
1.50 0.607 Very Poor
cause injury.
10. Safeness from the possibility for fire
3.55 0.510 Good
incident to occur through this machine.
Safety 3.08 0.373 Fair
User-Friendliness 3.37 0.320 Fair
Note: 5. 00 – 4.20 Very Good 4.19 – 3.40 Good 3.39 – 2.60 Fair
2.59 – 1.80 Poor 1.79 – 1.00 Very Poor

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Statistically, when RULA scores in using the regular iron is compared to the
RULA in using the designed and developed iron machine, the difference of the two (2)
means is very significant with a p-Value of 0.000 which is less than 0.05 level of
confidence. This means that the decrease of 4.35 from mean score of 7.35 using regular
iron machine to mean score of 3.00 in RULA in using the designed and developed iron
machine is really significant. That using the designed and developed iron machine, it will
lessen the pain of the users.
To validate the efficiency, steam assist and time were evaluated by the
respondents. In terms of steam assist, respondents agreed that the designed and developed
iron machine is very good in it with a mean score of 4.33 and standard deviation of 0.552.
However, time was rated by the respondents as fair with a mean score of 3.28 and
standard deviation of 0.444. This yields to a very good efficiency with a mean score of
3.80 and standard deviation of 0.370.
In the validation of user-friendliness, size and safety were used. For size of the
designed and developed steam iron machine, respondents rated it as good with a mean
score of 3.65 and standard deviation of 0.587. Meanwhile, safety was rated as fair with
mean score of 3.08 and standard deviation of 0.320. This yields the user-friendliness to
be fair with mean score of 3.37 and standard deviation of 0.320.

66
RULA Assessment
The proponents conducted a Rapid Upper Limb Assessment or RULA. This is a tool used
to measure the degree of strain on the affected body parts of the ironing workers while
manually iron and fold clothes and using the machine.
Figure 28 RULA Assessment on Manual Process of Ironing and Folding
Figure 28 shows the result of RULA Assessment on manual process of ironing
and folding. Part A focuses on arm and wrist analysis having a score of 6. Part B focuses
on neck, trunk and leg analysis having a score of 1. The score in table C added to the
Activity score of 1 gives the final RULA score of 7. This is interpreted into Very High
Risk that needs to implement for immediate changes.

67
Figure 29 RULA Assessment Using the Machine
Figure 29 shows the result of RULA Assessment on the users while using the
machine. Upon using the machine, the result of RULA Assessment on part A is 2 and on
part B is 1. The score gives the final RULA score of 3. This which is interpreted into
Negligible Risk and no action is required.

68
Analysis and Interpretation of Data
Data were gathered from different testing procedures; the production capacity
test, functionality test, efficiency test, and user-friendliness test and validation. The first
one revolves around the production capacity of the machine. The production capacity test
evaluates the number of output that the machine can produce. On manual process, it takes
3 minutes and 7.146 seconds to iron and fold a single cloth. In a span of 1 hour, it can
produce 19 pieces of clothes. The output capacity per day were determined based on 8
working hours, producing 154 pieces of clothes. Using the machine, it takes 3 minutes
and 6.822 seconds to iron and fold a single cloth. The machine produces the same amount
compared to the manual process. But the health of the ones who does the manual process
is at risk. Having a RULA score of 7 which falls under a very high risk of having a
musculoskeletal disorder. Using the machine has a RULA score of 3 which is a negligible
risk of having a musculoskeletal disorder.
Functionality test indicates if the machine can perform its function without
failures. The functionality of the machine was tested with seven repeated trials and the
proponents found out that there is a minimal error occurs on the gripping function of the
machine. This indicates that the machine is functionally working.
The efficiency of the machine was determined in terms of number of hand
motions from manual process to the machine. The number of hand motions were gathered
using the Therbligs Analysis. Therbligs Analysis was designed to find unnecessary

69
movements or inefficient motions. The machine has a significantly lower number of hand
motions compared to the manual process of ironing and folding. In full automation
process is 69.39% efficient and in semi-automated process, wherein the user wants to use
the iron function is 81.63% efficient.
The last part was the user-friendliness test and validation of the machine which
divides into two parts. The first part is for validation of the efficiency, steam assist, and
time. The steam assist and efficiency were rated with a “Very Good”, while the time was
rated with a “Fair”. The second part is to validate the user-friendliness, size and safety of
the machine. The size of the machine was rated with a “Good”, for the safety and user-
friendliness, it was rated with a “Fair” from the total mean response computed from 20
respondents. Based on statistics, the machine was found out a really significant to use to
avoid the occurrence of having a musculoskeletal disorder and to lessen the pain of the
users when ironing and folding the clothes with a p-Value of 0.000 which is less than
0.05 level of confidence.

70
Business Model
Table 14 Business Model
Key Key Activities Value Customer Customers

Partners Proposition Relationship Segments
Promoting a user
Laundry Friendly steam New Personal Institutional and
shops ironing machine Technology private investors
Laundry shops
Individual Key Resources Channels Municipalities
Ironing People Website Residential
Workers Materials
Financial
Cost Structures Revenue Streams

Materials and Components
Sales
Monitoring and service fee
Shipping fee
Key Partners
 Laundry shops
Institutional and private investors like Laundry shop with a large demand of
clothes being ironed and fold.
 Ironing Workers
Individual ironing workers who decided to use the machine instead of using the
manual method for their ironing business.
Key activities
Promoting a user-Friendly steam ironing machine that will be used for their
businesses.

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Key Resources
 People
To make this project into business, it is needed to have people who are
professional to design and develop the project.
 Materials
The project materials that are available locally and suitable to make the project
 Financial
Also, to have financial capability to fund the project and business.
Value Proposition
New Technology
The organization will partner with Laundry shops and some residences.
Channels
Website
The way to purchase the project is to contact the founders through website.
Customer Relationship
Personal
As a key to any good customer relationship, communicating is essential way to
build customer relationship. Rather than telling customers about your business,
have conversation with them and find what customers need

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Customers Segments
 Institutional and private investors
 Laundry shops
 Ironing Workers
Cost Summary
Table 15 Cost Summary
Quality Name of Materials Price Total Price

2 Gripper Clamp With Servo Motor 1,500.00 3,000.00
7 Wiper Motor 1,200.00 8,400.00
1 Stepper Motor 2,500.00 2,500.00
1 Circuit Breaker 220 220.00
5 Linear Guide 2,500.00 12,500.00
3 Bolt Screw 3,000.00 9,000.00
1 Linear Actuator 5,500.00 5,500.00
1 Stepper Driver 2,000.00 2,000.00
1 Power Supply 12v-10a 800 800.00
1 Power Supply 24v-16a 1,600.00 1,600.00
2 8channel Relay 500 1,000.00
1 4channel Relay 300 300.00
2 Stepdown Regulator 189 378.00
1 Solid State Relay 60a 889 889.00
20 Limit Switch 35 700.00
1 Steamer 1,500.00 1,500.00
2 Button 18 36.00
1 Stainless Casing 12,500.00 12,500.00
12 1meter Stranded Wire 7 84.00
1 100pieces Banana wire 90 90.00
7 24inch x 30inch Acrylic Sheet 850 5950.00
TOTAL 68,947.00

73
Revenue Streams
 Sales
 Monitoring and service fee
 Shipping fee

74
CHAPTER V
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
This study entitled “Design and Development of Automated Steam Iron Machine
with Folding Mechanism” was established because of the inspiration comes from the
advancement of technology in ironing industry that tries to aid the problem of the society
to decrease the involvement of human activity and intervention that leads to fasten the
production of ironing clothes. The study conducted with the main objective of reducing
the time consumed on manual ironing and folding process of clothes and to eliminate the
possibility of having a musculoskeletal disorder. The prototype comprises a
microcontroller, wiper motors, stepper motors and its driver, servo motors, limit switches,
light dependent resistor, linear actuator, and steamer. The proponents conducted several
types of test to measure the production capacity and efficiency of the machine. As
progress lead to completion of the machine, several tests and evaluation were done to
measure the production capacity and efficiency of the machine.
As part of the test, three operators were asked to perform the manual process of
ironing and folding and compared the data gathered to the process time of the automated
machine. The proponents observed the Time and Motion Study of the manual ironing
process versus the Time and Motion Study of the automated process. Based on the
results, the production capacity of the machine is almost equal to the manual process. The

75
proponents also took the functionality test by observing each activity the machine can
perform and found out that there was a slight error in the gripping functionality of the
machine. For Efficiency tests, the proponents used Therbligs analysis in which the
number of hand motions for manual process versus the automated process was observed.
And based on the results, the machine was considered efficient. Output quality check was
done on three (5) different sizes of shirts in which we gathered different kinds of results.
The proponents also asked twenty people with age that ranges from 19-26 years old as for
validation, evaluation, and user-friendliness of the machine. The respondents are people
who works for the laundry shop and ironing workers.
Conclusion
The developed system was able to satisfy the main objectives of the study which
was to reduce the time consumed on manual ironing and folding process of clothes and
remove the possibility of having a musculoskeletal disorder. The specific objectives that
were aimed at the start of the study were also established in accordance to the whole
functionality of the system.
Based on the results of the Time and Motion Study of the machine versus the
Time and Motion Study of the manual process, it was found out that the production
capacity of the machine did not exceed but is equal to that of the manual process. Even
with that results, the machine has succeeded to aid the problem of the society to decrease
the involvement of human activity and remove the risk of having musculoskeletal
disorder.

76
For the validation of the user-friendliness, size and safety of the machine. The
size of the machine was rated with a “Good”, for the safety and user-friendliness, it was
rated with a “Fair” from the total mean response computed from 20 respondents. Based
on statistics, the machine was found out significant to use to avoid the occurrence of
having a musculoskeletal disorder and to lessen the pain of the users when ironing and
folding the clothes with a p-Value of 0.000 which is less than 0.05 level of confidence.
For the functionality of the machine, the proponents had done seven repeated
trials and the proponents found out that there is a minimal error occurs on the gripping
function of the machine. This indicates that the machine is functionally working.
Also, most of our respondents would still go for the automated machine since they
exert lesser amount of effort to iron and fold the clothes, allows them to multi-task, and
the machine is very easy to use.

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Recommendation
Upon building the prototype, the proponents saw the limitations of the machine. The
limitation occurs because of the intended materials were not yet available in the
Philippine market. Due to its limitations, the proponents were not able to achieve the
perfect project. Therefore, the proponents recommend the following to future researchers:
 Find, or create an electric steamer that can produce right amount of steam and its
temperature to remove the creases and wrinkles in clothes better.
 Consider the use of a bolt screw with a much wider thread compared to the ones
used in this study to increase the movement of Clipper or use another type of
electric motor, thus improving the production capacity and efficiency of the
machine.
 Consider the size of the gripper to avoid the occurrence of having a technical error
in the gripping function of the machine. Also, a support in the gripper will help
the machine to place the shirt in the flat form neatly.
 Consider some other features that can be added in the machine. An addition
button for a separate folding process.

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REFERENCES
Alrefaei, M. S. M. (2016). U.S. Patent No. 9,469,934. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office.
Al-zahrani, F. M. (2016). U.S. Patent No. 9,328,453. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2008). The burden of musculoskeletal

diseases in the United States: Prevalence, societal, and economic cost. Executive
summary. Rosemont, II.: Author.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2015. Non-fatal Occupational Injuries and Illnesses

Requiring Days Away from Work, 2014. November 19, 2015.
Chen H.F. ( 2002, June) Safety Structure of Steam Ironing Machine. Retrieved from:
https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/46/3b/45/c7367818e7a27e/US63975
02.pdf
Cheriaa, R., Marzoug, I. B., & Sakli, F. (2016). Effects of industrial ironing on
mechanical and dimensional properties of cotton, wool and polyester fabrics.
Indian Journal of Fibre & Textile Research (IJFTR), 41(2), 167-172.
Essays, UK. (November 2013). History and Development of Clothes Irons. Retrieved
from https://www.ukessays.com/essays/engineering/history-development-clothes-
irons-2029.php?vref=1
Gallagher, S., & Heberger, J. R. (2013). Examining the interaction of force and repetition
on musculoskeletal disorder risk: a systematic literature review. Human factors,
55(1), 108-124.
Gomesh, N., Daut, I., Kumaran, V., Irwanto, M., Irwan, Y. M., & Fitra, M. (2013).
Photovoltaic powered T-shirt folding machine. Energy Procedia, 36, 313-322.
Kaushik, A., Mishra A., & Singh, H. (2014). Automatic Ironing Machine (AIM). Asian
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KCK, V., & Ratri, P. (2018). Study on prevalence of MSDs among Ironing Workers in
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79
Ridgeway, M. (2018). Commercial Steam Iron: Top 7 Professional Ironing Systems

2018. Retrieved from https://www.steamercentral.com/commercial-steam-iron-
top-7-professional-ironing-
systems/?fbclid=IwAR0JgUoXOwrWQFvdW0QQfgebrsCFolC1N3LiVNwCvH
N_Aob6acL36O8skSc
South African Bureau of Standards. Electric irons for household or similar use: Methods
for measuring performance. (1999) Retrieved from:
https://standards.globalspec.com/std/371406/IEC%2060311
Zahri, Z. M., & Somantri, Y. (2018, July). Control System Flatness Fabric on Double
Folding Machine. In IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering
(Vol. 384, No. 1, p. 012066). IOP Publishing.

80
APPENDICES

81
APPENDIX 1
(USER MANUAL)

82
USER MANUAL
Automated Steam Iron Machine with Folding Mechanism

83
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION…………………………………………………………...1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS……………………………………………………………....1
THINGS TO REMEMBER……………………………………………………………..2
INSTRUCTIONS………………………………………………………………………...3

84
GENERAL INFORMATION
The automated steam iron machine is a prototype or appliances that can be used to iron
clothes in order to remove the creases and wrinkles, and folds the clothes afterwards.
Ironing is done wherever garments are present, for instance, in a single household, in a
clothing industry, and the likes.
The collaborative efforts by the researchers have resulted in the creation of a machine to
be used in clothing industry, laundry shop services, etc.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Upon using the machine, the following statements below must be follow in order to avoid
injuries and malfunctions in the machine.
1. Do not touch the metal plate of the machine to avoid burn injuries.
2. Do not touch the electrical wirings in the inside and outside the circuit box.
3. To remove the water on the metal coil, use a thick piece of cloth.
4. Keep hands and body clear when operating the machine to avoid injuries.

85
THINGS TO REMEMBER
1. The folding pattern of the machine was only for short-sleeve shirts from sizes
extra-small (XS) to extra-large (XL). This machine can also be used in other types
of clothes such as pants, shorts, long-sleeve shirts, skirts, polo, etc. But for the
iron process only. If the operators put the said clothes in the acrylic sheet and start
the fully automated proces, those clothes will be folded in a short-sleeve pattern.
2. As the circuit breaker switched on, the machine is initializing and goes back to its
original posistion. Wait for the machine to alarm, the buttons will only operate
after the alarm.
3. Check the water tank of the steamer. Make sure that the water is full before using
the machine. Also, use the steamer on “HIGH” mode. The steamer will start
blinking when the water tank is out of water. Refill the water tank immediately.
4. There are two buttons the serves as options to the user. Start button is for the fully
automated process of the machine and the other one is for iron process only.
There is reset button if the operator wants to restart the machine.

86
INSTRUCTIONS
For Full-Automated Process:
Steps Process Note

1 Remove the acrylic Remove the acrylic carefully
2 Set up shirt Set up your shirt backward
3 Return the acrylic Return the acrylic carefully
4 Turn on steamer Wait to the alarm for 5 to 7 minutes
5 Press the start button Before you press start button be sure that alarm rings
Hakbang Proseso Tandaan

1 Alisin ang acrylic Maging maingat sa pag alis ng acrylic
2 Ilagay ang Damit Ayusin ang damet ng nakatalikod
3 Ibalik ang acrylic Maging Maingat sa pag balik ng acrylic
4 Buksan ang steamer Intayin ang alarm ng 5 to 7 minuto
5 Pindutin ang Start Hindi mapipindot ang start button hanggang hindi
Button pa tumutunog ang alarm
For Semi-Automated Process

Note:
If you are using the full automated process and wants to use the semi-automated process,
press the reset button first.
Steps Processs Note

1 Set up shirt on the Set up shirt depends on what part you want to be
Folding Plat form ironed
2 Turn on steamer wait to the alarm for 5 to 7 minutes
3 Press the Iron Button Before you press start button be sure that alarm rings
Hakbang Proseso Tandaan

1 Ayusin ang Damit Ayusin ang damit depende kung anong parte ang
sa Flat form gusto maplantsa
2 Buksan steamer Intayin ang alarm ng 5 to 7 minuto
3 Pindutin the Iron Hindi mapipindot ang iron button hanggang hindi pa
Button tumutunog ang alarm

87
APPENDIX 2
(SOURCE CODE)

88
#include "DHT.h" // ***** TEMPERATURE/HUMIDITY LIBRARY *****

#include <Servo.h> // ***** SERVO LIBRARY *****
Servo myservo; // create servo object to control a servo
#define DHTPIN A0
#define DHTTYPE DHT11
#define ldr_Sensor 2
#define btnStart 3
#define Buzzer 4
#define btnManual 5
#define stpGetCloth_P 12
#define stpGetCloth_D 11
#define mtrClamp_Up 38
#define mtrClamp_Dn 40
#define stpCloth_P 6
#define stpCloth_D 7
#define lmtClamp_Up 48
#define lmtClamp_Dn 52
#define lmtCloth_Up A14
#define lmtCloth_Dn A15
// ********** MOTOR PINOUTS (RELAY)**********

#define mtrHeater_Up 24
#define mtrHeater_Dn 22
#define mtrClamp_F 28
#define mtrClamp_B 26
#define mtrUpper_Up 32
#define mtrUpper_Dn 30
#define mtrCenter_Up 36
#define mtrCenter_Dn 34
#define mtrLeft_Up 27
#define mtrLeft_Dn 29
#define mtrRight_Up 25
#define mtrRight_Dn 23
#define mtrLower_Up 37
#define mtrLower_Dn 39
#define mtrOutput_Up 31
#define mtrOutput_Dn 33
// ********** LIMIT SWITCH PINOUTS **********

89
#define lmtHeater_Up 50
#define lmtHeater_Dn 46
#define lmtClamp_F A13
#define lmtClamp_B A12
#define lmtUpper_Up A10
#define lmtUpper_Dn A11
#define lmtCenter_Up A9
#define lmtCenter_Dn A8
#define lmtLeft_Up A4
#define lmtLeft_Dn A5
#define lmtRight_Up A7
#define lmtRight_Dn A6
#define lmtLower_Up A1
#define lmtLower_Dn 53
#define lmtOutput_Up A3
#define lmtOutput_Dn A2
#define DO 35
#define CS 37
#define CLK 39
int Temp = 0;
int Distance = 0, High_Dist = 0, ClothCtr = 1;
long pos = 0, CTR = 0;
boolean StopFL = false, ManualFL = false;
int Sensor1 = 0, Sensor2 = 0;
DHT dht(DHTPIN, DHTTYPE);
void setup() {
// put your setup code here, to run once:
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(ldr_Sensor, INPUT); //digitalWrite(ldr_Sensor, HIGH);

pinMode(btnStart, INPUT); //digitalWrite(btnStart, HIGH);
pinMode(Buzzer, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(Buzzer, LOW);
pinMode(btnManual, INPUT); digitalWrite(btnManual, HIGH);
pinMode(stpGetCloth_P, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(stpGetCloth_P, HIGH);
pinMode(stpGetCloth_D, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(stpGetCloth_D, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrClamp_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Up, HIGH);

pinMode(mtrClamp_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(stpCloth_P, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(stpCloth_P, HIGH);
pinMode(stpCloth_D, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(stpCloth_D, HIGH);

90
pinMode(lmtClamp_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtClamp_Up, HIGH);

pinMode(lmtClamp_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtClamp_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtCloth_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtCloth_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtCloth_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtCloth_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrHeater_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Up, HIGH);

pinMode(mtrHeater_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrClamp_F, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrClamp_F, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrClamp_B, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrClamp_B, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrUpper_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrUpper_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrCenter_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrCenter_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrLeft_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrLeft_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrRight_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrRight_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrRight_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrRight_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrLower_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrLower_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrLower_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrLower_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrOutput_Up, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(mtrOutput_Dn, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtHeater_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtHeater_Up, HIGH);

pinMode(lmtHeater_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtHeater_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtClamp_F, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtClamp_F, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtClamp_B, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtClamp_B, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtUpper_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtUpper_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtUpper_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtUpper_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtCenter_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtCenter_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtCenter_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtCenter_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtLeft_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtLeft_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtLeft_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtLeft_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtRight_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtRight_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtRight_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtRight_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtLower_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtLower_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtLower_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtLower_Dn, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtOutput_Up, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtOutput_Up, HIGH);
pinMode(lmtOutput_Dn, INPUT); //digitalWrite(lmtOutput_Dn, HIGH);
dht.begin();
myservo.attach(10); // attaches the servo on pin 9 to the servo object
void getTemp(){

91
Temp = dht.readTemperature();
Serial.print("Temperature: "); Serial.println(Temp);
void Heater_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtHeater_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtHeater_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Heater_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtHeater_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtHeater_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrHeater_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Upper_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtUpper_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtUpper_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Upper_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtUpper_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtUpper_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrUpper_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}

92
void Fold_Center_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtCenter_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtCenter_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Center_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtCenter_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtCenter_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrCenter_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Left_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtLeft_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtLeft_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Left_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtLeft_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtLeft_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrLeft_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Right_Up(){

93
if(digitalRead(lmtRight_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrRight_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtRight_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrRight_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Right_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtRight_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrRight_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtRight_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrRight_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Lower_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtLower_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrLower_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtLower_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrLower_Up, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Fold_Lower_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtLower_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrLower_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtLower_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrLower_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Output_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtOutput_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtOutput_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Up, HIGH); delay(200);

94
void Output_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtOutput_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Dn, LOW); delay(500);
digitalWrite(mtrOutput_Dn, HIGH); delay(200);
}
void Clamp_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtClamp_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Up, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtClamp_Up) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Up, HIGH); delay(500);
}
void Clamp_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtClamp_Dn) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Dn, LOW); delay(100);
while(digitalRead(lmtClamp_Dn) == HIGH);
digitalWrite(mtrClamp_Dn, HIGH); delay(500);
}
void Stepper_GetCloth_F(){
if(digitalRead(lmtClamp_F) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(stpGetCloth_D, LOW);
while(digitalRead(lmtClamp_F) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(stpGetCloth_P, !digitalRead(stpGetCloth_P));
delayMicroseconds(5);
}
}

95
void Stepper_GetCloth_B(){
if(digitalRead(lmtClamp_B) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(stpGetCloth_D, HIGH);
while(digitalRead(lmtClamp_B) == HIGH){
}
}
void Release_Cloth(){
pos = 2000000;
for (CTR = 0; CTR <= pos; CTR++) {
}
}
void Stepper_Cloth_Up(){
if(digitalRead(lmtCloth_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(stpCloth_D, HIGH);
while(digitalRead(lmtCloth_Up) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(stpCloth_P, !digitalRead(stpCloth_P));
}
}
void Stepper_Cloth_Dn(){
if(digitalRead(lmtCloth_Dn) == HIGH){
pos = 330000;
digitalWrite(stpCloth_D, LOW);
digitalWrite(stpCloth_P, !digitalRead(stpCloth_P));
}
}

96
void Check_Sensor(){
if(digitalRead(ldr_Sensor) == LOW){
Sensor2 = 0;
}
else{
Sensor2 = 1;
}
Serial.println("MACHINE IS INITIALIZING, PLEASE WAIT ...");

myservo.write(60);
Heater_Up(); Stepper_GetCloth_B(); Clamp_Up(); Output_Up(); Stepper_Cloth_Up();
Fold_Upper_Dn(); Fold_Center_Dn(); Fold_Left_Dn(); Fold_Right_Dn();
Fold_Lower_Dn();
while(Temp < 42){

getTemp(); delay(500);
}
for(int x = 0; x <= 3; x++){

digitalWrite(Buzzer, HIGH); delay(500);
digitalWrite(Buzzer, LOW); delay(500);
}
delay(1000);
Serial.println("READY");
void loop() {
// put your main code here, to run repeatedly:
Start_Function:{}
Serial.println("Press Button");
if(digitalRead(btnStart) == LOW){
delay(50); while(digitalRead(btnStart) == LOW); delay(50);
while(1){

97
Clamp_Dn();
GetClothAgain:{}
myservo.write(120); Stepper_GetCloth_F(); myservo.write(60); delay(500);
pos = 250000;
}
Check_Sensor();
if(Sensor2 == 0){
Stepper_Cloth_Dn(); ClothCtr++;
Serial.print("Cloth Ctr: "); Serial.println(ClothCtr);
if(ClothCtr >= 7){
ClothCtr = 1; Stepper_Cloth_Up();
}
goto GetClothAgain;
}
else if(Sensor2 == 1){
Release_Cloth(); myservo.write(120);
Stepper_GetCloth_B(); Clamp_Up(); myservo.write(60);
Heater_Dn(); delay(20000); Heater_Up(); delay(500);
Fold_Upper_Up(); Fold_Upper_Dn();
Fold_Left_Up(); Fold_Left_Dn();
Fold_Right_Up(); Fold_Right_Dn();
Fold_Center_Up(); Fold_Center_Dn();
Fold_Lower_Up(); Fold_Lower_Dn();
Output_Dn(); Stepper_Cloth_Dn(); ClothCtr++;
Serial.print("Cloth Ctr: "); Serial.println(ClothCtr);
}
if(ClothCtr >= 7){

ClothCtr = 1; Stepper_Cloth_Up();
}
}
else if(digitalRead(btnManual) == LOW){
delay(50); while(digitalRead(btnManual) == LOW); delay(50);

98
Heater_Dn();
while(1){
Serial.println("Press Button to up.");
if(digitalRead(btnManual) == LOW){
delay(50); while(digitalRead(btnManual) == LOW); delay(50);
Heater_Up(); goto Start_Function;
}
}

99
APPENDIX 3
(TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION AND SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM)

100
Limit Switch Circuit

101
Step-Down Voltage Regulator

102
Wiper Motor Circuit Diagram

103
Stepper Motor Circuit Diagram

104
TB6600 STEPPER MOTOR DRIVER
Features:
 Support 8 kinds of current control

 Support 7 kinds of micro steps adjustable
 The interface adopts high-speed optocoupler isolation
 Automatic semi-flow to reduce heat
 Large area heat sink
 Anti-high-frequency interference ability
 Input anti-reverse protection
 Overheat, over current and short circuit protection
Specifications:
Input Current 0~5A

Output Current 0.5~4.0A
Control Signal 3.3~24V
Maximum Power 160W
Micro Step 1, 2/A, 2/B, 4, 8, 16, 32
Temperature -10～45℃
Weight 0.2 kg
Dimension 96 * 71 * 37 mm

105
8 CHANNEL, 5V, SPDT RELAY BOARD
Specification:
 8 independent SPDT Relays designed to be driven by an Arduino or other micro

controllers.
 Low on input activates Relay.LED indicators for each relay
 All relays are Opto isolated. Selectable common or independent Relay Power.
 Input: .1in. header with Vcc, Gnd, and an input pin for each relay.
 Output: Terminal strips for contacts
 4 corner mounting holes.
 Power: 5VDC@<40mA each.
 Contacts: SPDT 10A @ 30VDC, 250VAC
 Weight: 0.26g
 Dimension: 5-7/16” x 2-1/4” x 3/4

106
APPENDIX 4
(SURVEY FORM)

107
This Research study is entitled “A Design and Development of an Automated Steam

Ironing Machine with Folding Mechanism”. This survey will help us to determine the
user-friendliness of our machine. Rest assured that all data gathered will be treated with
utmost confidentiality and will be used for academic purposes only. Thank you!
Part 1: Personal Information

Name (Optional): ________________________ Age: ___________
Do you Ironed clothes? YES NO
Part 2: Additional Information

1. In your experience, do you think the machine was easy to use? YES NO
Comments (Optional): _____________________________________________________
2. In your experience, do you think the machine was harmful to use? YES NO
3. Do you prefer to use this machine for ironing and folding of clothes in your laundry
shop as an extra service compared to the manual and traditional method of ironing and
folding?
YES NO
Part 3: Planning Considerations
Instruction: Put a check on a row on which the answer of your choice is specified.
5 - Very Good 4 – Good 3 – Fair 2 – Poor 1 – Very Poor
Features of the Machine 5 4 3 2 1

Steam Assist:
1. Produces right amount of steam with proper temperature to iron
the clothes properly.
2. Neatly irons the whole surface of clothes.
3. The iron surface of the machine is non-stick.
Time:
1. Response time of the machine.
2. Quickly removes the creases and wrinkles in clothes.
Size:
1. Ability to iron the entire clothes inserted.
2. Suitability of the machine’s size to place in your laundry shop.
Safety:
1. Cooling down time required for the machine upon usage.
2. Possibility to touch the iron surface that can cause injury.
3. Safetiness from the possibility for fire incident to occur through
this machine.

108
APPENDIX 5
(TIME AND MOTION STUDY)

109
Motion and Time Observation Sheet for Operator 1

110

111

112
Time and Motion Study of the Machine

113
APPENDIX 6
(OTHER DOCUMENTS)

114

115
APPENDIX 7
(CURRICULUM VITAE)

116

117

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LYCEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY - CAVITE

of Clothes Iron, 2017).

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

development of Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs, particularly, work-related

Musculoskeletal Disorders (wMSDs), was found as a major problem, this is caused by

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

Background of the Study

requires repetitive movements in order to remove creases in a garment. Doing such

time progressed, manual ironing, particularly in single household or even in some

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

of technology in ironing, which involved the goal of eliminating judgmental aspects of

work. Work-related musculoskeletal disorder needs to be considered. According to the

Occupational Health Safety Associations (OSHA), work-related musculoskeletal

person on doing extensive work in ironing (Vasanth D, Ramesh N, Fathima FN,

Fernandez R, Jennifer S, Joseph B 2015).

reduce the possibility on having a work-related musculoskeletal disorder and to

improvement of minimalized time consumption spent on ironing clothes and to Thus,

therefore eliminating human effort in ironing and folding clothes.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

Objective of the Study

folding process of clothes and the possibility of having a musculoskeletal disorder.

Specifically, the study aims:

 To design a steam ironing machine and to assemble each components such as

linear guide and linear actuators.

microcontroller and light sensor.

folding mechanism in terms of:

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework

hardware and software requirements and process it through programming, fabricating,

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

Significance of the Study

Laundry Shop Owners

business services for ironing and folding a clothes.

to iron their clothes.

advancement of the research regarding this study.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

Scope and Limitations

The machine will be programmed to de-wrinkle and remove creases in a clothes

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

motors. This can be used as the control unit of the machine.

ironing textile materials (International Electrotechnical Commission, 2002).

An electrical components that has a capability to converts electric energy into

Electric Steam Boiler

electricity which become the source of steam for ironing.

Measurement of the machine in terms of being efficient to accomplish its given

Mechanical components that assists the movement of a motor in a straight path.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

Production Capacity Test

produce the right amount of output.

ironing. It can be provided with means to supply a shot of steam (International

Electrotechnical Commission, 2002).

will not work without water to steam.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (wMSDs)

Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 2008).

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The inconsistencies of previous studies regarding the construction of steam boiler

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE

researches that needs to construct a safe electric boiler in different applications.

According to HF Chen (2002), the malfunctioning of the design of previous steam

process using an industrial iron and a steam iron.