IR Tracker
analysis
The initial phase of the project was to perform product analysis. In this case in particular by capturing main and subproblems, function tree and sketches that express ideas visually.
structure & proportions
In order to research technical structure and proportions of the product, a block diagram has been created. With the help of this, the functions from the function tree can be schematically grouped under particular parts.
The dimensions and other measurable data of environmental space for the product are also recorded. The idea is getting more and more detailed.
mechatronics
Designing a housing for a brand new machine line starts always with making a lot of sketches. After that follows the phase where we make selected ideas more precise and detailed. Next step was to present the system operation schematically.
This provides insight into the operation of the product as a whole, but also per unit.
engineering
During the engineering phase we set up parametric design in CAD. In addition to that, we also have looked closely at the details of the Tracker. The functions of the main parts were still the focus point during engineering.
Following this way we created a 3D model that provides more functional insights.
cad
Next step was modeling parts and assembling those parts in an assembly file. By setting up an assembly model, we were able to extract more information from the possible functional bottlenecks. This in turn creates new sub-problems and new opportunities for more advanced solutions.
prototyping
When the CAD model was sufficiently feasible, we took the next step and started building a physical prototype. Physical model is somewhat easier to analyze because it makes it tangible. So the model can be touched; looked closely; assembled and disassembled etc.
All of this is necessary to make the next efficient steps towards optimal concept.
concept
When the prototype was finished and tested, we continued building to the concept. The concept worked well, but there were still points for improvement.
structure & proportions
Final version of CAD prototype was built in 3D environment. This is was necessary to better represent the concept visually. After the visual optimization steps, we started rendering of the IR Tracker.
The results can be seen below.
