SVE Bezel
Instron | Standard Video Extensometer | Design
Overview
I developed a soft-molded bezel for the standard video extensometer (SVE) that improves visual appeal and masks an unused mounting hole resulting from a shared housing with the advanced video extensometer (AVE).
Challenges
Develop a cost-effective solution aligned with the lower production volumes of SVE sales.
Conceal unused housing features resulting from shared architecture with AVE.
Deliver a visually refined design that meets branding and marketing expectations.
Solutions
Cost-Effective Design: Leveraged soft molding to achieve an economical solution suitable for SVE production volumes.
Assembly-Friendly Setup: Integrated alignment features and minimized mounting points to simplify assembly.
Visually Refined Appearance: Applied geometry and surface finishes consistent with established marketing design language.
Design & Development
Concept Generation ❖ CAD
Prototyping ❖ DFM ❖ DFA
Manufacturing
Material Selection
Supplier Coordination
Communication
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Client Interaction ❖ Documentation
Designed for molding
SOLIDWORKS draft analysis was used to evaluate and refine the bezel geometry for molding. The design prioritized uniform wall thickness, adequate draft angles, and properly radiused fillets to reduce tooling complexity, improve part release, and minimize the risk of defects such as sink, warpage, and incomplete fill.
Back View
Front View
Visual Alignment with Marketing
Close collaboration with marketing stakeholders ensured alignment on design language, color palette, surface finishes, and overall aesthetics without compromising design intent. Early-stage renders were used to clearly communicate design intent, solicit feedback, and confirm visual direction prior to final design freeze.
Rapid Prototyping
3D printing was used early in development to evaluate form, function, and fit. Physical prototypes enabled stakeholders to visualize the part in-hand, facilitating faster feedback cycles and accelerating design decision-making through quick iteration.
