The Problem
Starbucks would like to provide samples of their coffees to customers without the use of disposable paper cups.
The Assignment
Design and build a system that dispenses a sample shot of coffee and additives (eg cream) directly into a customer’s mouth. The system must be accurate and mix the correct ratio of additives.
This was a challenge to say the least. The device had to use image analysis to locate the mouth of the customer (aka victim) and estimate the distance to compute a trajectory. Depending on the sample selected, the coffee had to be combined with additives and then pumped out the nozzle and hopefully into an open mouth. Many people were willing to try the system but quite a lot of laundry and wet floors resulted.
Leo Stocco is the instructor who conceived of this project. His background in automated surgical devices is likely the reason for his highly developed ability to think of projects that involve complicated control of fluids.
Ready, Aim, FIRE!
Leo Stocco