• Reviewing literature to benchmark tribometers and selecting an appropriate type
• Designing the mechanical structure based on expected resolution, tolerance, and testing conditions
• Developing an electronic system that includes sensing and motor modules, as well as a control system that utilizes an Arduino and a graphical user interface on a computer
• Utilizing SolidWorks to create 3D models and 2D drawings
• Employing ANSYS software to perform static and dynamic simulations, ensuring thorough evaluation of the mechanical design
• Creating the design for manufacturing (DFM) document, considering the material properties and available machines for efficient production
• Collaborating closely with technicians in the machine shop to optimize the design and enhance manufacturability
• Manufacturing the main structure parts using various techniques such as conventional milling machine, lathe, CNC machining center, laser cutting, wire EDM, and water jet
• Anodizing critical parts to enhance wear resistance and improve overall durability
• Sandblasting the tribometer washers with various media and working conditions to achieve different surface roughness and profile geometry
• Evaluating the surface roughness and washer quality using a profilometer and SEM
• Applying a layer of gold coating on the tested rubber using PVD and investigating the rubber wear under SEM
• Evaluating the repeatability and reproducibility of tribometer by employing knowledge of DOE
• Utilizing the Python and Minitab to analysis the data