Underwater Sampling Container - Automated Manufacturing
Designed a modular underwater sampling container system for ROV-based marine research, featuring 3D-printed components, automated robotic assembly, and customizable configurations following Industry 4.0/5.0 and DFAA principles.
Duration
Fall 2024
Role
Team Member
Institution
NTNU
Status
Completed
Technologies Used
Overview
This MMA4002 Design for Automated Manufacturing group project developed a 3D-printed underwater sampling container system for ROV-based marine research. The design features pressure-resistant containers with customizable sizes, three different clip mechanisms (magnet, twist, slide), and a universal bracket system. The project applied Industry 4.0/5.0 principles, Design for Automated Assembly (DFAA), and Lean Manufacturing concepts, with final assembly performed by collaborative robots.
Problem Statement
Design a customizable, pressure-resistant container system for underwater sample collection that can be automatically manufactured via 3D printing and assembled by collaborative robots, while meeting diverse customer specifications for size, depth rating, and attachment mechanism.
Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Solution | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure Resistance Design | Calculated wall thickness based on depth requirements and material properties (PETG) | Containers rated for various ocean depths with appropriate safety factors |
| Automated Assembly Optimization | Applied DFAA principles to minimize parts and simplify assembly directions | Robot-friendly design suitable for cobot assembly |
| Modular Product Architecture | Designed interchangeable clips and universal bracket system | Product family with three container sizes and three clip variants |