Background
A startup that spun-off from an existing customer asked Zebulon Solutions to assist with the design of their new scientific instrument. The goal was to create a sensor for personal safety to monitor air pollution. Advances in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology allowed Zebulon Solutions to reduce the physical size of air samplers. By integrating analysis features they designed a wearable device.
Project Goals
- Design a low-cost, manufacturing-ready device that increases performance
- Test actuators to understand their electrical, thermal, and mechanical behavior in multiple environments
- Refine instrument as needed based on test results
Zebulon Solutions’ Activities
- Created a design of experiment (DOE) and subjected the actuators to a wide range of operating conditions to capture their performance
- Created several circuit options to evaluate trade-offs in efficiency, risk and design effort with product requirements
- Developed the system architecture and PCBA layout
- Developed firmware and debugged prototypes
- Managed prototype production at a contract manufacturer
Results
In a joint effort with our customer, Zebulon Solutions developed and evolutionary approach to get to market early and generate cash flow. Due to this approach, the startup is now successfully manufacturing and shipping their instrument.
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