Description
This project focuses on the design and development of a new vertical movement mechanism for liquid handler instrument doors, a solution that is particularly appreciated in laboratory environments where space is limited. While most vertical doors rely on gas springs and do not operate with true vertical motion, laboratories often require compact, ergonomic, and reliable solutions.
M31 has so far used a mechanism derived from the furniture industry, which, although functional, is not well suited for industrial use. The goal of this stage is to provide a complete vertical aperture solution that integrates essential features such as manual or electrical control, door balance to maintain positioning, smooth movement, shock absorption, a guiding and locking system, and the possibility of incorporating sensor triggers. Supported by M31’s hardware, firmware, and software expertise, the project will ultimately deliver a new generation of vertical door mechanisms specifically adapted to industrial and laboratory needs.
Why This System is Needed
The integration of a vertical door system in laboratory equipment is highly valuable, as it allows efficient use of space, safe handling of delicate instruments, and compliance with the ergonomic requirements of technicians. Current solutions remain inadequate:
- High dependency on unsuitable components: Mechanisms from furniture suppliers are not optimized for reliability or durability in industrial contexts.
- Lack of adaptability: Conventional systems using gas springs do not provide smooth vertical movements or flexible balancing options.
This project addresses these challenges by designing a cost-effective, robust, and fully adaptable vertical door system that ensures industrial-grade performance, safety, and ease of integration into M31’s liquid handling instruments.
How We Plan to Achieve It
The project will be carried out in several phases, each with a clear scope and deliverables.
1. Analysis of the Existing Vertical Door Mechanisms
The first phase will consist of a comprehensive analysis of currently available vertical door solutions. This includes investigating the market, assessing price structures, and performing a physical evaluation of the mechanisms already in use. The purpose is to establish a clear understanding of their limitations and to identify opportunities for improvement before proceeding with new concepts.
2. Door Mechanism Improvement
The second phase will concentrate on identifying and testing possible improvements. Alternative components will be researched from reliable suppliers, and materials will be evaluated based on their suitability for different environments such as biomedical, cleanroom, or UVC-resistant settings. From this work, a list of improvements and innovative ideas will be drafted, including potential new-generation concepts. A trade-off study will then be carried out to determine the most viable design direction.
3. 3D Modeling and Design
In the third phase, the selected concept will be transformed into a complete design solution. SolidWorks will be used as the primary CAD tool, while FreeCAD and other student-licensed programs will be tested as alternatives to optimize costs. The modeling process will include the preparation of parameter-guided 3D models, allowing flexible adaptation of dimensions. These models will be integrated into M31’s Product Data Management system to align with internal standards.
Alongside modeling, the detailed design will be progressively refined through continuous rethinking and evaluation of the concept. Production drawings will be elaborated to support manufacturing, and cost estimation will be conducted through comparisons with at least three online suppliers. This stage ensures that the project evolves from conceptualization to a production-ready design.
4. Production and Testing
Once the design is finalized, the prototype will be produced and assembled. A test procedure will be written, followed by the execution of the testing phase. If rectifications are required, the design will be updated accordingly until it reaches the expected performance and safety standards.
5. Documentation
Throughout the project, continuous documentation will be maintained to ensure transparency and traceability. Clear production drawings, test procedures, test reports, and final product documentation will be delivered to provide a complete record of the development process.