The History of Spectral
Expertise rooted in my experience
The history of Spectral is intrinsically linked to my personal journey. With over 15 years of experience in the mechanical design of enclosures for electronics, I have acquired unparalleled expertise in ensuring the physical and functional integrity of electronic components in harsh environments, such as vibrations, shocks, exposure to electromagnetic fields, or corrosive atmospheres.
In 2023, drawing on this experience, I decided to share my know-how by launching my freelance activity. Then, in 2024, I founded Spectral, a human-sized mechanical design expertise company. The primary objective of Spectral is to provide local support, giving maximum attention to the needs of my clients.
Before creating Spectral, I worked at the Alstom Villeurbanne site, where I took immense pleasure in holding a highly diversified position. I guided my colleagues, advised project managers as a technical expert, and made technological decisions with management.
The activities I carried out can be divided into three categories, all requiring numerous interactions with suppliers, the purchasing department, quality control, and industrialization:
Product Development (R&D)
This main activity was carried out at the Alstom Villeurbanne site, a world-class center of excellence in electronics. The development focused on traction/brake controllers, electronic control systems, automatic train pilots, and signaling systems, both for rolling stock and railway infrastructure. These computers, of the 19-inch rack type with motherboards and daughter cards equipped with processors and numerous inputs/outputs (sensors), ensure the safety of trains and passengers. I also worked on specific products such as trackside beacons, safety equipment for switch management, electronic cabinets, and communication antennas under the train. The challenge was to reduce the footprint while ensuring the cooling of the electronic boards.
Technical Expertise
This expertise included technological monitoring, technical assistance, and support for industrialization to meet quality needs.
I have gained extensive experience in electronic packaging for extreme environments, such as vibrations and shocks, protection against electromagnetic fields (EMC), wide temperature ranges, and resistance to oxidation (Salt Fog).
My expertise also extends to numerous areas for shaping parts, including fine sheet metal work (aluminum and stainless steel), extruded aluminum profiles, injection molding of Zamak or plastic parts, SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound) composites, as well as aluminum casting (sand or shell molding).
Management of the Product Development Department
I led a team of 7 collaborators, organizing, planning, and managing priorities to ensure the delivery deadlines of definition files (bills of materials, assembly drawings, definition drawings). I was also responsible for ensuring compliance with mechanical development processes and milestones, as well as the validation of technical choice justification documents.
To learn more about my expertise and background, you can view my LinkedIn profile by following the link.
My Offers
Freelance
Contact me directly via Spectral, or through the MALT or Freelance-Engineering platforms. I would be delighted to discuss your needs and assist you with your projects.
Damien BLANCHET, Mechanical Engineer, INSA Lyon class of GMC-2007
My Freelance Clients
I had the opportunity to have him on my team for a few years working on electronic packaging development. In addition to his undeniable and comprehensive technical skills, Damien is someone who is engaged, reliable, and someone you can count on.”