Case Studies

Jan 11, 2012

OEM - Sports & Recreation Industry


Customer requested integration and protection of electronics in a hockey puck. Their main concern was protection, functionality and physical properties/attributes of the device.

Technical situation

Customer requested integration and protection of electronics in a hockey puck. Their main concern was protection, functionality and physical properties/attributes of the device. The design requirements specified precise weight and shape be unchanged with a regular NHL puck. In order to satisfy the National Hockey League (NHL) standards, including but not limited to, size and weight control the product was designed and manufactured to function in a constant frozen environment.

Solution

PRS presented a potting/encapsulation design solution to the customer. Our engineering team offered a two part epoxy foam and glass microspheres design to achieve the physical attributes necessary. This chemistry provided electrical insulation, mechanical strength, vibration and shock resistance. Molds were created for the application, as alignment of the molds was critical in the precision location of the electronics. On-site random testing at incoming inspection was implemented to assure product compliance.

Benefits

First articles were submitted for approval and passed testing with a 100% first time yield. Subsequently the customer awarded the contract to PRS. Up to 1000 units were processed using PRS’s technical expertise with a production rating of a 98% first time yield. These hockey pucks were used in 1997 and 1998 seasons.

Downloadable Case Study