Overview
Built a reusable fixture architecture for optical floating zone ampule growth that minimized manual alignment and improved cycle-to-cycle consistency.
Problem / Constraints
- Tight thermal envelope and small handling clearances
- Frequent part swaps between experiments
- Existing fixture introduced misalignment drift
Approach
Used datum-driven interfaces, indexed clamping features, and modular subcomponents to speed replacement while preserving repeatability.
Results
Alignment Time
-45%
Run Repeatability
+37%
Fixture Swaps
3x Faster
Media
Lessons / Next Steps
Next iteration will incorporate quick-release features and embedded sensor mounts for richer thermal diagnostics.