Hardware R&D / Prototyping Intern

About the Project

AURA is an early-stage consumer hardware research project exploring a compact, chemical-free mosquito capture device for cars. We are looking for a practical builder who enjoys taking an idea from CAD and components to a working, measured prototype.

Role

Hardware R&D & Product Prototyping Intern (Mechatronics / Electronics / Mechanical)

Location and Engagement

• Location: Chennai, preferably OMR / Kelambakkam / Siruseri area. Primarily on-site for hardware assembly and testing.
• Flexibility: Arrangements around academic commitments can be discussed.
• Duration: Initial 3-month paid internship.
• Stipend: ₹10,000 per month.
• Expenses: Prototype parts and approved project expenses are funded separately by the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and inspect small DC blowers, controllers, connectors and 3D-printed parts.
• Assemble low-voltage electronics, solder safely and troubleshoot basic power/motor issues.
• Modify simple CAD models (Fusion 360, SolidWorks or OpenSCAD) and coordinate 3D printing.
• Build sealed fan-and-mesh collection chambers and interchangeable inlet geometries.
• Measure airflow, power consumption, noise and temperature; document results clearly.
• Maintain BOM, drawings, photos, test logs and weekly progress updates.
• Work to a defined experimental brief; identify problems and propose practical design improvements.
• Follow lab safety procedures.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Hands-on Project Experience: With motors, fans, sensors, Arduino/ESP32 or similar hardware.
• Electronics Fundamentals: Basic DC circuits, soldering, multimeter use and electrical safety.
• Documentation: Comfort reading wiring diagrams and mechanical dimensions.
• Prototyping: Ability to assemble, test and troubleshoot real physical prototypes.
• Iterative Design: Willingness to document failures and iterate quickly.

Nice to Have

• CAD Software: Fusion 360 / SolidWorks / OpenSCAD.
• Manufacturing: FDM 3D printing.
• Measurement: Airflow measurement.
• Programming: Basic Python / embedded C.
• Design: Small-scale product design.
• Domain: Automotive accessory projects.

Qualifications

• Final-year students, recent graduates or diploma holders in Mechatronics, ECE, EEE, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering or closely related disciplines.
• A strong physical project portfolio matters more than college name or grades.

90-Day Outcomes

• Weeks 1–2: Source components, validate fan specifications and assemble first bench prototype.
• Weeks 3–4: Print and compare three inlet geometries; deliver documented airflow and power measurements.
• Month 2: Improve sealing, retention and noise; build revised prototype.
• Month 3: Complete reproducible build documentation and support supervised validation planning.