We designed and produced the Fourier Spectrometer prototype based on an existing research lab prototype made by the customer. EnCata’s role included industrial design, mechanical and electrical engineering documentation, and a manufactured prototype.
Challenge
We were tasked to design the Fourier effect spectrometer after the customer had nearly completed electronics development and produced an experimental lab-bench prototype.
The challenge was to arrange the spectrometer modules in a way that could enable a sleek industrial design. We were also tasked to do design-for-manufacturing (DFM) work that would allow the company batch production.
Engineering consultancy with respect to electrical and PCB design was also requested.
Approach & Solution
Since many of EnCata’s engineers and managers have a background in physics, optics, and lasers, we enthusiastically revised the spectrometer concept and constructed a BOM.
The Fourier spectrometer is designed around a special lamp, which is its most essential and expensive component. After revising the concept, the mechanical engineers proceeded to arrange the modules and spectrometer’s components and modules so the industrial designer could begin work.
Insight
The industrial designs of lab and testing equipment become possible only when all mechanical and electrical components are arranged so the product appearance, functionality, and user experience do not deteriorate as a result of the designer’s work.
Result
As a result of this project, we delivered the full documentation package and detailed CAD models for the spectrometer. The client successfully tested the prototype and utilized the work results of EnCata to produce their spectrometers in small batches and reach TRL-8.
The project took 4 months, which included 1 month of component logistics
