CHALLENGE: Update the atom measuring machined, newly named the API 4000. Willem Mast worked at MDS Sciex as part of the engineering group, and was given the Lead Mechanical Engineer role on this project. He was responsible for guiding a team of four to complete the updates to the popular API 3000 unit, along with the strong electrical engineering goup.
APPROACH: In order to update the equipment, several key stystems needed to be updated. This included the internal sensors, the injector mechanism, the vacuum pump system, the electronics (needed to be totally replaced), and the external covers. Willem’s scope was to handle the vacuum pump system, external covers, weldment update as well as the electrical housings. Several cost savings were made to the project plan when Willem worked with Barry Down an Industrial Designer to modify the external covers only slightly, greatly improving the image over the original design, giving a much more modern look.
IMPACT: The final product was finished on time and on budget. The equipment was designed using GD&T, and tolerance stackup so the assembly and manufacturing went smoothly.