I designed a model of a suitcase that could be more easily lifted up the stairs. The main subsystem redesign was of the wheels, such that they were multi-DOF and could be used normally on flat surfaces and to “climb” on stairs. The small wheels were attached to a “spindle” with a resultant diameter large enough to climb stairs, and each individual wheel utilized a ratchet-pawl gearing system so that it would lock in position (preventing the suitcase from rolling down the stairs).

Materials: PLA, 1/8” acrylic, wooden dowels

Tools used: 3D printer, hand saw, belt sander, imperial hardware, hand/power tools