Test Engineering
VENDi Shutter Characterization
Fixture, automation, and environmental validation
Malin Space Science Systems · 2025 · 108 words · 1 min read
What
Project scope
A full fixture and automated test workflow for characterizing a mechanical shutter across voltage and extreme temperature conditions for the DAVINCI mission.
How
Technical approach
SolidWorks · Python · Oscilloscope · Machining · Environmental test
Why
Outcome
Automated, repeatable measurements reduced test variability and supported confidence in shutter performance across flight-relevant conditions.
Key evidence
Process 01
Shutter timing fixture
I designed, machined, and assembled a multi-layer fixture that aligned the shutter with LED and phototransistor sensors. The plate stack controlled the optical geometry while keeping the shutter accessible for repeated environmental testing.
SolidWorks assembly of the shutter timing fixture.
Process 02
Automated environmental testing
The electrical setup combined dual power supplies, a waveform generator, MOSFET switching, and an oscilloscope. I wrote Python automation to sweep voltage, trigger the shutter, capture waveforms, and log open delay, close delay, actuation time, and current behavior.