Date of Award

2020

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Abstract

The Department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Systems Engineering at the University of Rhode Island requires every Mechanical engineering undergraduate to complete a capstone design project. Ray3D is a team constructed of three mechanical engineering students and sponsored by Raytheon. The task Ray3D was rewarded to develop is a 3D printed waterproof Housing. 3D printing offers essential benefits when compared to other standard processes. The research, testing and analysis regarding 3D printing is Raytheon’s primary requirement as opposed to a final product deliverable. Ray3D successfully completed material property testing on ABS and PLA filament, structural analysis of the proposed design and testing with respect to surface finishing and mating surface in order to create a compressed, watertight, seal. The effects of water leakage on various filament infills are examined, problem and concerns with 3D printing as well as how to troubleshoot through issues to obtain an effective and consistent print. The team developed an pneumatic system to give the waterproof housing variable buoyancy capabilities. This was successfully done by the use of a micro controller with a battery source, a 4.5V solenoid valve, and a custom circuit. Prototype I was improved upon by cutting material costs and print time to make Prototype II much more affordable. An effective seal for 3D Printed Housings has been developed and documented for reference in further additive manufacturing projects.

Comments

Sponsor: Raytheon

Download

Share

COinS