Executive Summary
A mechanically integrated telescope and collapsible tripod system engineered to satisfy stiffness, stability, and portability constraints within a load-bearing assembly. Custom component modeling, tolerance evaluation, and finite element analysis were applied to ensure structural reliability under applied user loads while maintaining deployable geometry.
Mission Context
Portable optical systems require vibration resistance and structural integrity without sacrificing transport efficiency. The design must maintain alignment under applied loading conditions.
System Architecture
Fifteen custom components were modeled in SolidWorks to create a fully constrained mechanical assembly. Tolerances and manufacturability constraints were integrated into the design process.
Technical Analysis
Structural load calculations and finite element simulations evaluated stress distribution and deflection under a 65 pound applied load. A safety factor of 2.0 was achieved while preserving collapsibility and portability objectives.
Validation and Performance
FEA confirmed structural integrity under operational loading conditions. The final design balances stiffness, vibration resistance, and deployability within defined mechanical constraints.
Role and Impact
Team Member
- Component modeling and assembly integration
- Structural load calculations
- Finite element simulation
- Engineering drawing validation