January 2017 -May 2017
Academic Group Project
Undergraduate Project Assistant

Responsbilities

• Research possible alternatives to existing mechanism considering the drawbacks.
• Develop mechanical designs and manufacture components to prototype ideas.

Problem Statement

The Alpha Sterling cryocooler compressor mechanism is a novel and compact design however one major drawback of the mechanism is the slippage of the convex disc while starting due to high torque of the motor. As the motion is transferred due to friction at the contact areas there is slip due to high starting torque.

Solution

Design a positive drive mechanism to minimize slip. We designed proof of concept with a differential gear type arrangement.

Design

The required motions are:

1. Reciprocating motion of piston
2. Rotation of connecting rod about its axis to reduce wear and tear due to side thrust.

Work included ideation and synthesis of new mechanisms, design, analysis and manufacturing of individual components.
Designing and 3D modelling: SolidWorks.
Manufacturing processes: Turning (lathe machine), laser cutting and rolling of metal sheets, gear cutting and heat treatment.