Motivation

The Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectrometer located at the University of Chicago was undergoing a design iteration when their mechanical engineer had to move to another project. Our role was to pick up where the other engineer stopped and complete the design.

Activity

As an in-progress project, part of our job was to understand and adopt the design approach of the previous engineer so that the momentum of the projects was not interrupted.

The remaining work was focused on revamping the laser cavity which needed to be sealed for measurement as well as design of optical alignment mechanisms for the laser. The experimental setup is designed to be flown in the upper atmosphere where weight minimization and thermal contractions were important design factors.

Design of the alignment mechanism was finished, and after review of the part design manufacturing drawings were created and delivered to the client.