Team Members & Role:

Henry Worden: Team Lead

Tristan Larson: Design Lead

Aidan McCormack: Analysis Lead

Dante Colonero: Evaluation Lead

Cole Clyburn: Fabrication Lead

Abstract:

 The mission of this project is to improve the design of the mechanical and control systems used in the MIE 402 lab carts to make it simpler and allow more consistent data to be collected. Creating a new lab system for the Engineering Lab will allow for students to easily collect accurate data, simplify the student lab procedures, and allow more time to focus on understanding concepts and making use of the data. Our team looked at existing technology that could create the necessary linear motion—including linear actuators and rack/pinion systems—and determined that a slider-crank system most aptly allowed for ease of adjustability and linear oscillation while comparatively providing inexpensive components and simple system kinematics. In defining components with the desired system longevity and simple machining, components were established as corrosion resistant and at a factor of safety of over 13 to ensure achievement of these goals. By incorporating a threaded-rod turnbuckle combined with a clevis for the predominant subsystems, analysis formulated feasibility with friction forces of a 1 Newton maximum, a degree of clevis deflection <30°, a torque required for the system equating 0.375 N-m and an overall width of the system in diminutive size of 11.96 in. The team used OSHA 1910.212 and ANSI standards to create a plexiglass enclosure, allowing students to safely view the system in action. The project was done within a $1,000 budget, leaving at least $300 for future adjustments. Next semester, a control system using Allen-Bradley products will be implemented including a touch screen allowing students to easily control the speed and frequency provided to the system.