Material Decisions

I am using Cambridge Engineering Selector to help me specify materials for this project. With the user, environmental and manufacturing requirements in mind it is very simple to narrow down material choices.

I have decided to use poly-amide for the casings of Lifeline as it has mechanical properties favourable to the maritime environment. Most noticeable is the high resistance to environmental stress cracking, impact properties at low temperatures, price, and translucency.

It is also well suited to mass production processes such as injection moulding - essential for this product.

Another material that I have come across is graphene, also known as super capacitors. They are able to charge in seconds and discharging over much longer times. This could be an answer to the energy storage problems and would also reduce the chore of charging - improving uptake or at least encouraging regular use.