SediGraph 4
Laboratory Equipment
Sponsor: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation
Fall 2019 | 7 Weeks
Collaboration with close friend Drew Alberts
Responsibilities: Sketching, CAD, Rendering, Modelmaking
(sketches and renders shown are my own)
The SediGraph 4 is a next generation x-ray particle size analyzer developed for the Micromeritics Instrument Corp.
The new design is a complete reimagining of Micromeritics’ most reliable instrument incorporating numerous improvements to enhance the user-experience during assembly, operation, and service without sacrificing the technological DNA it is renowned for.
Design Objective
Headquarters Visit
The project kicked off with a visit to Micromeritics’ headquarters. The engineers and scientists behind the SediGraph gave us a overview of the device and its inner workings. I also got to see the current model in production and operation, as well as interview the assembly workers and lab techs familiar with the machine. This provided a great foundation of knowledge for exploring potential improvements.
Functional Overview
Laying out the key functional elements and interaction points of the device provided a straightforward framework for the redesign.
Teardown
Micromeritics provided a SediGraph III (x-ray tube removed) to teardown and explore. Getting an extremely detailed look at the the internal engineering and current manufacturing techniques allowed me to find areas for opportunity for improvement and refinement
Opportunity Areas
Design Strategy
Pen to Post-it
Group ideation led to a wide range of potential directions to consider as we moved towards concept development.
Inspiration Board
Composing an inspiration board helped me to develop concepts and brand language directions. The concept of lessening visual weight using curvature intrigued me, as well as utilizing interlocking shells to create dynamism.
Concept Presentation
Concepts were presented at Micromeritics headquarters to employees from every company division. Their varying perspectives gave us a large body of feedback to consider as we further refined the design.
Refinement
The final design, with its bold use of color, includes a more dynamic shell as well as further detailed technical elements. It retains the integrated pump drawer which got great feedback during the concept presentation.
sketched and rendered with Procreate
Building Foam-Core Model
Constructing the model and CAD concurrently let us experiment with design elements and minor refinements on the fly.
Full-Size Model
SediGraph 4
for Micromeritics Instrument Corporation
Visual Design Language
The SediGraph 4’s cohesive design language is achieved with the assumption of complete sheet metal construction, resulting in a robust and reliable instrument, ready to stand out in a laboratory in both form and function. Application of the same principles across Micromeritics’ product line would strengthen their position as an industry leader.
Proportional Curves
Curves are applied proportionally (5:1) across the device. The cohesive curves reduce the visual weight and result in an inviting form that emphasizes the precision nature of the instrument.
Shell + Core
White outer shells surround a dark blue core; this produces an organic tension that highlights the defining curves and adds dynamism to the device.
Clean Colors
The refreshed color palette enlivens Micromeritics as a modern, cutting edge instrument company, while retaining the quality, expertise and accessibility that define them.
Features
The SediGraph 4 was developed with features to improve key pain points of use and maintenance which laboratory technicians experienced in its predecessor.
Symmetrical Pump Layout
Layout minimizes crossover in the piping flow allowing for a simpler overall configuration of tubes within the device.
Sliding Pump Drawer
Drawer can be opened while machine is being run and gives operator access to the pumps and mixing chamber.
Rigid 316SS Interior Piping + Optimized Layout
The SediGraph 4 replaces internal soft tubes with 316 SS piping, making it less prone to leaks during operation, which minimizes maintenance downtime. (foam-core model)
Accessible + Adjustable Feet
Provides easier access during the leveling process, resulting in faster and less strenuous initial installation of the machine.
Refined Control Panel
Reorganized and simplified to better convey important information on the state of the machine.
Larger Access Door + Reduced Overall Envelope
Increases access to the analysis compartment and test cell + frees up desk space around the machine.
Manufacturing
A defining strength of Micromeritics is their in-house manufacturing capabilities, revolving specifically around sheet metal forming. Our design leverages these capabilities while working within the constraint of single curvature sheet metal construction to create a form that celebrates both Micromeritics as a company, and the advanced technology within the SediGraph 4.
Machine Exploded View.
Integrated Pump Drawer Exploded View.
Presentation to Client + Users
Micromeritics chose our device as their favorite out of the studio, appreciating both the visual design elements of the device and the detailed technical changes aimed at improving the operator experience.
After the project, the models were displayed at Micromeritics headquarters.
I also had the chance to return to the headquarters and take pictures of the machine in-context. The lab techs tested out the model and praised the changes.
