The Engineering Department works with the institute's investigators to develop practical solutions through concept, design, manufacturing, implementation, and validation. Since the overall success of an idea depends on each stage, we offer expert service each step along the way.
Concept Creation
We work with scientists to conceptualize and realize all types of ideas. Our engineers first take the time to fully understand the scientists’ goals and the chemical/biological processes needed to achieve them. In cases where automated solutions are not practical, our scientists and engineers propose and test alternative processes that simplify the overall system. The end result is a protocol that maximizes scientific accuracy, system robustness, uptime, and output, while minimizing cost and all but eliminating maintenance.
Design
Once a concept is defined, a highly iterative, multi-disciplined design process begins. This design process roughly follows the following sequence:
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Overall Architectural Design—In the first step, we size up the parameters, balance conflicting requirements, and compare different approaches and methods through multiple iterations to find a synergistic solution
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System Layout—Next, the chosen architecture is constructed in a 3D CAD (computer aided design) environment to package and visualize the major components
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Component Design—The individual parts and pieces are then designed individually and checked for fit, form, and function
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Component Detailing—Individual, fully dimensioned, toleranced, and specified part drawings are created suitable for fabrication
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System Checking, Archiving, and Change Control—All drawings of all parts in the system are checked to ensure compatibility and function with the final system. The design is locked and future changes to parts then must go through a formal process to ensure the change is compatible with surrounding and mating components.
Parts Manufacturing
The parts and components that go into a large automated system can run the gamut from a fully custom-designed machined part, fabricated in one of our own onsite machine shops, to a purchased system highly modified for integration into the larger system. We occasionally make use of local and national fabricators, but for the most part, our systems are designed and manufactured in-house. In certain circumstances we work with an outside manufacturer to help it improve a product so it meets the high level of tolerance, reliability, and reproducibility demanded by our systems. Electronic control systems are designed and built in-house.
Development Validation, User Interface
The most straightforward, easily specified parts of any system are occasionally candidates for outsourcing. Areas of difficulty and technical reach, though, are most profitably developed and tested in-house. This development process runs continuously through the entire program and tricky areas of any system are furiously developed in parallel so all aspects are robust and functioning when the system comes on line. Developing a user interface is an ongoing effort, as the customer usually doesn't know what type of interface is desired until the final system is put into daily operation.
GNF Engineering's Operating Philosophy
Our philosophy is one of embracing challenges. We thrive on and desire to reach as far as possible in pushing the state of the art. Our motto is this: "If you can think it, we can build it." Our style is to achieve simplicity and elegance in our designs and to limit complexity as much as possible. Reliability is paramount. Our ethic is one of tenacity. Once we sign on to a project, our aim is not simply to work on it and try to succeed. We are committed to achieving the goals of the project even in the face of roadblocks or developmental setbacks.
