Overview of Status of Analysis, Design, Fabrication, Tests, etc.
Risk reduction concepts have been decided on and some finite element analysis regarding the cantilever has been conducted.
A preliminary design is in the works and a static equilibrium calculations have been carried out.
Accomplishments from Previous Week
Met with our sponsor to clear up outstanding questions. Obtained further specs regarding hardware and other constraints such as minimum cantilever length.
Met with instructor to inform him of our understanding of the objectives and related criteria.
Research into applications of similar concepts.
Goals for Next Week
Construct physical models for further risk reduction (Alex, Chase)
Complete risk reduction (everyone)
Sponsor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
Meeting with sponsor: 27 November, 2018
Contact Thor Labs for further information relating to the active vibration isolation support. Is this design feasible with just one isolation support?
Response: Thor Labs has been contacted and we spoke with an applications engineer. A single leg is capable of supporting roughly 1,375 lbs which we project will be sufficient to support the completed project. The legs are also capable of vertical and horizontal isolation.
Lower limit of cantilever length should be approximately 40” (1 meter).
Response: the designs have been updated.
Instructor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
Meeting with instructor: 29 November, 2018
People have preconceived notions of brain imaging. Explain how this project is different than other methods of brain imaging. Utilize photos, videos, CAD, etc.
Response: sponsor provided concept photo is now on the front page along with a brief background that explains the significance this project carries. More illustrative photos and CAD images will be added in the near future.
Look for inspiration in other products
Response: we have been looking into a tension system similar to the ones used on cranes and have incorporated this concept into one of our risk reduction tests. Additionally we have been researching into surgical microscopes.
Relating to the cantilever: consider using some sort of counterbalance.
Response: at this point we believe our design is going to include some sort of counterbalance mechanism. Our sponsor showed us some interesting resources, we have also been looking into non mechanical counterbalance systems.
Relating to vibration: The lowest natural frequency of the system will present the most issues. In general, try to raise the natural frequency. Work on determining values for equivalent spring constant, k, and system mass.
Response: Estimating these parameters shall be done once we determine the specific materials that will be used.
Comments from Other Students in the Class
None to report
Risks and Areas of Concern
The resonance frequency for the support is 1.25 Hz and 1 Hz for vertical and horizontal displacement respectively. This is in the range of possible frequencies for foot traffic and building pressure waves.
The natural frequency of the system itself.
Resources or Information Required but not Available
Operating room restrictions (we plan on visiting an OR with our sponsor in the near future).
Schedule
Upcoming milestone: finalize first design iteration.Once completed we shall look further into the isolation leg prior to making purchasing decision (see Risks and Areas of Concern).
Click here to find the most up to date Gantt chart.
Budget (list amount spent and amount remaining)
Spent: $0
Remaining: $1600
Progress on Report and Webpage
Building the webpage has started.