I was tasked with designing a test fixture that can be used to test energy attenuators of varying shapes and sizes for usage in East/West Industries's stroking helicopter seats. I studied existing seats to understand the functionality, interviewed engineers who plan to use the fixture, and adhered to a list of engineering requirements.
After creating several concepts, I conducted finite element analysis to understand displacement and stress, and select final designs. I designed 15 unique components and prepared 3D models and 2D drawings for the machine shop to manufacture all of the components. Later, I assembled and tested the attenuators using a hydraulic pump.