Rotisserie Assembly Fixture
Equipment on the manufacturing floor. Operators can safely hold and rotate the workpiece as needed to complete assembly operations.
Developed to streamline the assembly of PCR instrument subsystems, this fixture enables a single operator to complete builds that require access to both sides of the workpiece.
Led the end-to-end design and assembly of this tool, developing two prototypes to evaluate frame geometry, braking performance, and clamping functionality — with a focus on structural stability and operator usability. Prototypes were built from recycled extruded aluminum, sheet metal, and plastic bar stock using FDM 3D printing, waterjet cutting, and CNC machining.
Key features of the deployed design include:
Soft plastic clamping mechanisms to protect cosmetic surfaces
Rigid extruded aluminum frame to reduce vibrations during transport and use
Locking brake system for secure workpiece orientation
Hydraulic height adjustment for single-operator ergonomics
Custom bracketry to integrate off-the-shelf components
Prototype #1
Constructed from circular and square extruded aluminum.
Concept for Brake design constructed from water jet cut steel sheets and 3D printed components.
Custom bearings made from Acetal plastic designed and CNC machined to enable rotation of the workpiece.
Prototype #2
Frame design from Prototype #1 is used, but updated brake components to be more durable by using larger steel brake plates and a toggle clamp to lock into various rotation angles. Added 3D printed clamping mechanism to allow for workpiece to be installed and held in place.