Shop Sample Projects 🛠️

This area is under construction

Here you will find a few examples of custom work produced through our Machine Shop and Mechanical Design Support services to support research and teaching at ECE.

Prop-Bot – Rover Prototype (2016)Rover Prototype

Project Description:

  • Fully in-house design and fabrication of an autonomous radio-signal exploration rover
  • Custom CAD-designed chassis and modular component mounts
  • Waterjet-cut frame and CNC-machined DIN-standard hardware for flexible payload integration
  • Precision assembly for rugged field performance and data reliability
  • Optimized for sensor adaptability in varying terrain conditions

Materials Used:

  • Aluminum
  • Stainless Steel
  • Nylon

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Manual Turning
  • Waterjet Cutting
  • Powder-Coating

Client:
UBC Radio Sciences Lab

Flammability Test Enclosure (2021)Flammability Test Enclosure

Project Description:

  • Precision-built rig for controlled textile combustion experiments
  • Constructed in compliance with ASTM D1230 standards for textile flammability testing
  • Allows for safe monitoring of temperature and combustion progress
  • Features adjustable airflow to simulate various fire scenarios
  • Integrated jigs for real-time data capture and analysis

Materials Used:

  • Fire-resistant Composites
  • Fire-proof Glass
  • Stainless Steel

Machining Techniques:

  • Waterjet Cutting
  • CNC Milling
  • Drilling
  • Metal Bending brake

Client:
Centre For Flexible Electronics and Textiles

Antenna Range Platform
Antenna Range Platform

Project Description:

  • Modular stands enable flexible antenna positioning for diverse testing configurations.
  • High-precision fixtures ensure accurate alignment for consistent RF measurements.
  • Durable construction withstands prolonged outdoor environmental exposure.
  • Stable platforms minimize signal interference during antenna performance testing.
  • Lightweight yet robust design facilitates easy setup and reconfiguration.

Materials Used:

  • High-strength Steel
  • Aluminum

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Waterjet Cutting
  • Powder-Coating

 

Client:
UBC Radio Sciences Lab

Large Motor Test Bench (2025)
Motor Test Bench

Project Description:

  • Precision assembly and structural framework for high-torque motor testing and performance data logging
  • Custom mounting points and bracing for sensor integration and vibration isolation
  • Engineered for repeatability, thermal stability, and mechanical stress resistance
  • Modular layout enabling flexible test configurations and iterative design
  • Built for high-load endurance under continuous testing conditions

Materials Used:

  • Heavy-duty Steel
  • Reinforced Composites

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Welding
  • Powder – Coating

Client:
Dr. Juri Jatskevich for UBC ECE Motors Lab

Quantum Gantry (2024)
Quantum Gantry

Project Description:

  • Structural gantry fabricated to support precise optical alignment in quantum research
  • Designed using modular aluminum framing for rapid assembly and reconfiguration
  • Precision-cut acrylic panels allow for optical visibility and laser-path management
  • Rigid frame minimizes mechanical drift and supports sub-millimeter adjustment tolerances
  • Compatible with vibration isolation systems for ultra-sensitive experiments

Materials Used:

  • Lightweight Aluminum T-slot extrusions (8020)
  • Precision-cut Acrylic

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Band Saw Cutting

 

Client:
Quantum Science and Technology Laboratory

Custom Monitor Mounts

Monitor Mounts
Project Description:

  • Tailored brackets for adjustable screen setups in shared research spaces

Materials Used:

  • Durable Steel
  • Adjustable Plastic Components

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Plastic Molding

IC Lead Cutter

IC Lead Cutter
Project Description:

  • Custom jig for trimming leads on integrated circuits before soldering

Materials Used:

  • Hardened Steel

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Milling
  • Precision Jig Assembly

Wooden Test Fixtures
Wooden Test Fixtures

Project Description:

  • Fabricated wooden structures for mechanical prototyping and component testing

Materials Used:

  • High-quality Plywood
  • Hardwood

Machining Techniques:

  • CNC Routing
  • Traditional Woodworking