Series A Start-up
Duration: 2021 - 2024
Mission
Hyphen designs and builds makelines that automate food production and augment labor.
San Jose, CA Mechanical Engineer
My Hyphen Journey
In 2021, I had the privilege of joining a fast-paced start-up with an exceptional engineering team. I designed several key subsystems in the GEN1 and GEN2 Hyphen product.
IMPACT
In June 2023, our team at Hyphen delivered an automated makeline system to Chipotle. We accomplished something truly remarkable by bringing this GEN2 product to life in just around 210 days. I led the designs for the dispenser systems. Through rapid data-driven designing and prototyping cycles, I designed 2 hoppers that handled over 70% of chipotle's 21 offered ingredients. These dispensers are considered to be the core IP technology within the company.
OTHER IMPACTS
I had the opportunity to design several key subsystems on the GEN1 product, which went from concept to production in approximately 700 days.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
This opportunity was challenging but also extremely rewarding. We worked tirelessly throughout 2022. At times, our team consisted of only 3 mechanical engineers. Despite the challenge, I was excited by this rare opportunity to make a significant impact on the product. The successful completion and delivery of the GEN2 pilot product have brought me immense satisfaction. As I look ahead, I am eagerly seeking new challenges to further cultivate my skills and expertise.
1. Chipotle Dispensers
2. Ledge Extension
3. Weigh Bucket Redesign
Projects Overview
1. Chipotle Dispensers
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Primary designer for ingredient dispensers, which are considered to be the core IP technology at Hyphen
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Designed over half the dispensers in the first machine delivered to Chipotle (pilot product delivered on 6/18/23)
CONCEPTS
PROTOTYPING
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Rapid prototyping
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Injection Mold DFM
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Dispenser test stand (electromechanical)
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Gear train design
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Dynamic rotary seal design
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Machining
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Cams, linkages, actuators, bearings
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Data-driven design
Applied Skills
PRODUCTION
Pilot Production Dispensers
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GEN2 Makeline CAD rendering
GEN2 Makeline loaded with production dispensers
2. Ledge Extension Project
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Designed a retrofittable ledge extension for the GEN1 makeline product
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The ledge addition allows users to prepare ingredients on a washable & removable cutting board, and is wide enough to slide bowls along the makeline
Foam core Prototype
Brainstroming
Engineering Drawing
Production Ledge Extension
3. Weigh Bucket Redesign
