XRD Fibre Mounting Fixture Final Design
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Date
2014-12-01
Authors
Hakansson, Sean
Johnson, David
Lane, Gregory
Pearson, Phillip
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Abstract
The design team was tasked by the Composites Innovation Center (CIC) to design a fixture that would improve the quality and effectiveness of the fibre sample mounting process of its X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD). Additionally, the fixture was also required to interface with the fibre cassette tabs utilized by CIC’s Dia-Stron tensile testing device, to improve the testing capability of their FibreCITY research lab. The proposed fibre-mounting fixture must allow for quick and efficient mounting and removal of the fibre sample, yet remain stable and secure so as to prevent the fibre sample from dislodging during the XRD scanning procedure. In addition, the XRD must be able to take scans of the fibre sample at multiple points requiring that the fixture can adjust to accommodate a variation in the vertical position of the sample. Throughout the project, the team has utilized the methods of engineering design as outlined within the MECH 4860 course. Beginning with investigating the problem and defining the client’s needs, thorough research and analysis took place to develop a deep understanding of the design problem. The team conducted several concept generation and screening sessions both with and without the client, and decided to pursue three separate mounting concepts for further prototyping and subsequent analysis. These design concepts included a micro suction-cup design, an adhesive dot design, and a magnetic design. Using an iterative approach, multiple variations of the proposed design concepts were tested and evaluated. Based on the results of the testing and feedback from CIC, it was determined that the magnetic mounting concept was the best solution. The final design consists of a c-shaped rack and pinion mechanism, with magnets affixed to both ends of the rack. These magnets serve as the method for mounting the fibre cassette tabs while the rack and pinion design serves to provide the adjustability necessary to facilitate multiple sample points along the fibre. The fixture is 3-D printed using an acrylic monomer resin and weighs approximately2.04g. The maximum width, height, and length of the fixture are10.83 mm, 43.86 mm, and 19.28 mm, respectively. […]