UTM Probe Holder Product Design
Date: July 3, 2024
Designer: Caleb Mueller
Lab: Spark Lab, UNBC
Contact: sparklab@unbc.ca
Objectives and Constraints
- Objective: Model a probe/sample holder capable of holding two probes vertically and horizontally, while simultaneously holding a soil sample.
- Constraints: The holder must fit between two UTM plates without causing interference.
Materials and Tools
- Software: SOLIDWORKS
- Materials: PLA filament
- Equipment: Voron Trident 3D Printer
Phases of Development
I. Client Consultation
- Process: Met with the client to establish design criteria and understand the requirements of the probe holding system.
- Actions: Conducted measurements of the sample holder, imitation soil sample, and probe to determine the dimensions required for the CAD model.
II. CAD Modelling and Prototyping
- Process: Developed the system/assembly model in SOLIDWORKS.
- Actions: Presented iterative design progress to the client and ensured proper fit and positioning.
- Prototyping: Used PLA to 3D print prototypes, which were then tested using a UTM machine.
III. Printing of Final Products
- Process: Final model was printed using PLA and delivered to the client.
Skills Developed
- Proficiency in SOLIDWORKS assemblies and mates.
- Effective time tracking for invoicing.
- Development of tightening mechanisms without damaging sensitive electronics.
Support and Resources
- Graduate Student: Huan Yu
- Faculty: Dr. Wenbo Zheng (PhD, Meng, BEng, PEng)
- Lab: Civil and Environmental Engineering Lab (CEEP)
Product Images
- Figure 1: Early prototype being tested in the UTM machine.
Client Feedback
“The clamp is extremely effective in my compression test setup. It makes it possible to hold additional external LVDTs in both the normal and lateral directions, perfectly accommodating the chain for lateral measurements. The installation process is straightforward. It is both economical and practical, fully meeting the requirements for my uniaxial compression tests.”
– Huan Yu