Problem Statement
In this project the client brought a small catheter mounted on the end of a steering cable and wanted to perform a series of electrical tests on the various components of the catheter. During assembly the tiny electrical wires within the catheter can become damaged and must be inspected before the part can be shipped to customers.
This project required the design and build of a precision fixture to assist an operator to perform both a continuity and resistance test on each component of the catheter.
This project required the design and build of a precision fixture to assist an operator to perform both a continuity and resistance test on each component of the catheter.
Solution & Results
The final result is the Catheter Electrical Test Fixture. The fixture is comprised of a precision vertical plate with multiple electrical pins mounted on pneumatic actuators centered around pedestal part nest. An operator uses the provided custom clamping block has a v-groove to help align the part to the nest then clamps the part in place with a draw latch. The operator then presses a button on a touchscreen HMI and the electrical pins extend and make contact with the part and then a programmable logic controller performs a series of continuity and resistance tests across all of the catheters components with a series of relays.
The initial project scope was to build two machines, however the client returned to have an additional two mechanical fixtures made.
The initial project scope was to build two machines, however the client returned to have an additional two mechanical fixtures made.