Research and structural engineering of an off-grid sanitation device - BC-1020
Project type: ResearchDesired discipline(s): Engineering - mechanical, Engineering, Engineering - other, Design, Social Sciences & Humanities
Company: Pacific Base Gear Inc.
Project Length: 6 months to 1 year
Preferred start date: 09/01/2026
Language requirement: English
Location(s): Vancouver, BC, Canada
No. of positions: 1
Desired education level: Master'sPhDPostdoctoral fellow
Open to applicants registered at an institution outside of Canada: No
About the company:
Pacific Base Gear Inc. is a clean-tech hardware startup developing fully self-contained utility modules for professional, recreational, and disaster-relief deployments. Our focus is on engineering rugged, portable infrastructure mixed with fluid dynamics.
Describe the project.:
We are engineering a compact, collapsible, all-terrain utility chassis designed to operate entirely independent of any external hookups. The system features a proprietary active fluid-containment matrix and a modular tri-power energy source. The primary objective of this project is to validate the fluid dynamics and load-bearing constraints of our core design to achieve a final, manufacturing-ready product.
The graduate candidate's main tasks will center on engineering and testing a high-pressure, dual-reservoir pumping matrix to guarantee consistent flow rates while maintaining absolute seal integrity. Additionally, the researcher will lead the dynamic load distribution analysis on the rugged chassis to ensure the structure can safely support a 300+ lb load.
The methodologies and techniques utilized during this collaboration will include intensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA), fluid dynamics mathematical modeling, and physical material stress testing. All architectural components will be systematically validated against harsh environmental factors (such as UV and severe temperature fluctuations) as well as strict zero-leak tolerances.
Required expertise/skills:
Core Specialties:
Advanced proficiency in Finite Elemental Analysis, Strong Comprehension of Fluid Dynamics, Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Experience optimizing multi-component mechanical assemblies for injection molding, thermoforming, or scalable manufacturing pathways.
Software Proficiency:
CAD 3D Modeling specialist (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion 360, or Inventor). Highly familiar with computation simulations (e.g., ANSYS or integrated CAD stress-analysis modules).
Other:
Structural properties knowledge familiar with highly durable plastics (HDPE/ABS) , Chemical Resilience, Structural Ribbing Hands on experience with prototyping and hardware validation testing.
