UTM Probe Holder Product Design

Date July 3, 2024

Designer Caleb Mueller

Lab Spark Lab, UNBC

Contact sparklab@unbc.ca

Objectives & 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 & 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 & Resources

Graduate Student: Huan Yu
Faculty: Dr. Wenbo Zheng (PhD, Meng, BEng, PEng)
Lab: Civil and Environmental Engineering Lab (CEEP)

Product Images

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