Electromechanical Compression Device
This accessory was developed to assist with sealing and packaging breath capturing consumables in drug testing kits by compressing female and male parts to form a tight seal. Operators open the device door, place the consumable in the device, and press a button to execute the sealing and packaging process.
I built initial functional prototypes to test different microcontrollers (Arduino Nano, Raspberry Pi Pico), motor drivers, DC Motors, and voltage settings, selecting configurations and hardware based on compatibility, cost, and mechanical footprint. I wrote the C++ firmware to combine and control DC motor compression dynamics and RGB status indicators based on sensor feedback, and ran mechanical characterization using a load cell on various motors to determine the force and speed needed for a consistent, successful seal. I also created the operation and maintenance manual for this device.
The final design completely eliminated sealing failures while keeping the process fast, with a cycle time of 12 seconds per sample.
Device final design.
CAD assembly of final design to illustrate electronic components, sensors, and mechanical components.
First functional prototype set-up to test states on microcontroller program using switches, breadboard, and buttons.
Second prototype combining mechanical parts, DC motor, breadboard, and electronics to asses mechanical fit and verify function of design concept.
Custom breadboard with motor driver soldered and wired into second prototype.