This year in our DTEP magnet, our class was given the task to complete a capstone project that would not only test our building process, but more specifically researching, patenting, prototyping/fabricating, testing, and networking.

My partner and I have chosen to take on a project that would be simple to prototype, fun to build, and most of all have a huge impact on the community. We wanted to do something that would not only be cool, but useful.

Our project is a firefighting tool that would enable firefighters to put out a fire in a burning building without entering the building. Making firefighting a much safer and faster profession as firefighters are not exposed to the heat and smoke from the flames. Based on three main ideas: saving money, time, and lives. We have learned that simplicity is priority #1. (Please see the attachments)

Ever since day 1, we have learned so much about not only the firefighting community but also finding materials inexpensively, expanding our fabrication techniques, and networking with fire fighters, senior engineers, college students, metal shops from all over Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor has always been amazing place to live in and to grow up. W have been gifted with an amazing school with amazing resources and amazing teachers. We have been gifted with many more resources way beyond what we could ask for. For example, Alro Metals on S. Industrial has donated aluminum for our project, our neighbors at Scio Township fire department have helped us greatly with our project as well as Ann Arbor's Fire Station 1. The recycle center on the south state as well. Most of all, Skyline and Maker Works ( a public based fabrication/prototyping shop) have teamed up and has provided my classmates and us with access to Maker Works to take on our capstone project. Maker Works has basically been a second home and have the most amazing employees and people that we have ever met. It has truly accelerated our education beyond our dreams.