Mechanical design engineer within Subsea systems and tooling

Working as part of the mechanical engineering and design team in a role to carry out high quality research and mechanical development of contemporary technologies used in many engineering sectors. The role required research and investigation into viable solutions, mechanical design and validation using Solidworks, creation of prototypes of new parts and systems, and design and manufacture of test rigs for physical functionality testing and analytical data capture.

The role continues the design and optimisation of processes in line with current lean manufacturing techniques, as well as having an active role in new product implementation as a part of a business diversification strategy. The strategy involves exploring new opportunities to market Grundfos products in ways not offered previously, this role explores engineered to order systems, flexible engineering solutions that can grow with the customers business (modular designs) and drop to site packaged pump stations (mainly within large water utility companies) and has led to more experience in face to face contact with customers and cross departmental experience, working alongside the planning and purchasing departments.

Continued with machine design and process optimisation but with a much reduced hands on role and increase use of CAD software, this was necessary due to the increasing complexity of the projects, and an increase in the level of design verification required. Gained experience of SolidWorks and Catia V5 design packages to accomplish virtual prototypes of new machines, sub-assemblies, and processes so ideas could be clearly understood and presented to team members, engineers, and managers. During this time in my career I developed an appreciation of the electrical automation factors in designing new machines and processes. I worked closely with electrical engineers and PLC programmers to integrate the mechanical aspects of any new process with the electrical and electronic. Some examples of this integration is in the use of many types of sensors (proximity, vision, laser, ultrasonic) the use of servo control for motors and drives, and the overall control methodology from the PLC. As projects grew I developed project management and personnel supervisory skills, on a typical project I would oversee the allocation of work to mechanical and electrical technicians and from a project management point of view be involved with;• Research, development, and project strategy.• Design• Ensuring the project meets design for manufacture criteria.• Prototyping• Sourcing suitable suppliers for components.• Planning and scheduling project stage-gates.• Allocation of specific tasks to personnel• Organising progress meetings and reviews.• Carrying out commissioning and ensuring new equipment meets CE marking requirements.With regards to the projects, I undertook responsibility of all mechanical design, process/output targets, and quality issues.

Used skills and knowledge gained from apprenticeship to manufacture production equipment and tooling. The scope of tasks ranged from the manufacture of components used for special purpose machinery, to complex precision parts used in press tooling. I also worked within the maintenance department that maintained and repaired the bespoke machines that assembled the various pumps and products produced by Grundfos. This consisted of many styles of machines ranging from motor winding equipment, induction heating machines and packaging equipment, to component handling and processing equipment. It was during my time in this role that I developed skills in machine design and process optimisation. My role then developed towards planned upgrading and re-designs of sub-assemblies within plant equipment to enhance performance and efficiency within the production process as a whole

Gained practical and academic knowledge of engineering and machining practices, in a large range of materials (ferrous, non-ferrous and polymers) using conventional and computer controlled machine tools. The apprenticeship followed a structured program to develop skills in turning, milling, precision tooling grinding, hand tool bench fitting, and MIG and TIG welding