Prototyping

Last week I was able to stress test the petri dishes that will be used to hold the sample.  With those in place , the next challenge was how to get the petri dishes attached securely to the high altitude balloon payload in such a way that the dishes can be installed and retrieved with minimal effort.  I worked in Autodesk Fusion 360 do design the above retention systems that will sit recessed into the top of the payload.  The left side is where the sample-holding petri dishes will sit and the right side are the retaining plates that will use screws and nuts to hold the petri dishes in place.

One of the best parts about this system is that it will allow for the installation and retrieval of the petri dishes without having to open the payload.  The designs still need a bit of fine tuning with the sizes to account for plastic shrinkage, but the first test 3D print showed that the concept works and is adequately stable and strong to achieve the goal set forth.  

The ASCEND project is the first time I have used any CAD software and it is quite fun.  I really enjoy the ability to imagine something and then have it brought to life so immediately.  I have known about 3D printers but have had little experience with them.  Moving forward I will try to work on small projects here and there to retain and improve this skill as it is not only fun, but could prove valuable in the future.