Environmental Material Science
Background
Environmental Material Science (EMS) specializes in sensor technology that provides live monitoring of subsurface soil conditions, addressing needs such as optimal crop growth and soil remediation after contamination. While early prototypes successfully demonstrated proof of concept, these initial devices were costly, time-intensive to assemble, and lacked wireless connectivity.
The Challenge
With an upcoming sales ramp-up, EMS needed to redesign their sensors for efficient, scalable production. The primary goals were to reduce assembly time and costs and to add wireless connectivity. The project began with their CropSense device, designed for soil monitoring in agriculture, and later extended to their SoilSense bore hole sensor, which connects multiple devices in a series at various depths to monitor soil for remediation.
Solution
For the mechanical design, we started with an additive manufacturing approach using MultiJet Fusion Nylon with Vapor Sealing by Exergy Solutions, complete with o-rings and gaskets for easy assembly and adaptability to PCBA design updates. For embedded systems expertise, I brought in Ryan from Disruptive Design, a trusted electrical engineer specializing in embedded systems’ design and integration, to revamp the circuit boards with wireless connectivity features.
Together, we collaborated with EMS and leveraged Exergy’s high-volume printing and post-processing capabilities, which allowed us to iteratively improve the designs and integrate new features as needed for both sensor types.
Impact
Through close collaboration, EMS, Disruptive Design, and I quickly produced updated sensors and enclosures while also assisting with early production challenges. The flexible approach enabled us to adjust designs as the product scaled, streamlining the path from prototype to production-ready devices.
Current Status
Environmental Material Science has since expanded globally, reaching customers from North America to Australia. Their advanced sensor suite and soil remediation programs deliver effective, scalable solutions in both agricultural and oil & gas sectors, providing invaluable support for soil and groundwater management.
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