The DFMA assessment of a coastal radio transmitter enclosure with emphasis on optimal sealing and component materials

Abstract

As we rely on electrically powered devices more and more each year, improving their reliability is essential. Several electrical devices need to be situated outdoors in order to function properly, such as a coastal radio transmitter. While the transmitter itself cannot withstand the harsh outdoor seaside environment, its enclosure must do just that. If the electronic components cannot be made reliable in their operating environment, then a protective enclosure must be designed and manufactured. In order to understand how these types of enclosures can be made to function properly, a DFMA assessment is conducted on an existing design of a coastal radio frequency transmitter enclosure. Additionally, the correct geometric tolerance and material for the enclosure is to be determined. A combination of literature reviews, followed by an expert interview, and a systematic material selection process are conducted in this thesis work. Finally, the enclosure is sealed from the environment using a gasket between the joining surfaces. The most suitable material will be determined for the gasket as well. The results from this thesis will demonstrate what kind of materials and product design requirements are necessary to successfully protect electrical components from harsh outdoor conditions. Understanding the different ways to protect and house electrical components, is a definite requirement are we to move forward in a world driven by electricity.