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Final Project Ideas

Computer-aided design

Computer-controlled cutting

Electronics Production

3D scanning and printing

Electronics Design

Molding and Casting

Embedded Programming

Computer Controlled Cutting (Router)

Input Devices

Composites

Interface & Application Programming

Output Devices

Networking and Communications

Mechanical / Machine Design

Applications and Implications

Invention, IP, Income

Project Development

Final Project

Final Project


For a final project, I am going to make a pellet mill.

what will it do?
    -It will force/compact biomass into pellets

who's done what beforehand?
    -I found a gas motor to use as a powersource, have some bearings.
    -Lots of research has been done relative to pelletizing methods

what materials and components will be required?
    -Raw materials, bearings, pulleys, belts, fasteners
    -To prove the system, a wooden model will be created first.  Lower cost, shorter fabrication time.

where will they come from?
    -Local vendors have components needed.

how much will it cost?
    -Wooden version will cost around $50 (without bearings) ($400 for all metal)

what parts and systems will be made?
    -All parts will be custom machined (housing, bearing plates, shaft, die)
    -Additional systems will be made to measure: shaft RPM, die temp, input moisture?
    -System outputs: engine speed control, solenoid valve to add water to input media?

what processes will be used?
    -Router for housing, bearing plates and die. 
    -Laser to cut rollers (laminated to create thickness). 
    -Mini-mill to create input/output circuits.
    -Some bushings could be 3D printed for wooden version.
   
    -Mill and lathe are needed for most components in full metal version.

what tasks need to be completed?
    -Design finalized
        -Modifications to convert to wood
    -Design/Test circuits (hall effect for RPM input, servo to control motor, etc)
    -Cut pieces and assemble machine
    -Test function of system, then move to metallic components

what questions need to be answered?
    -Does design shape function well
    -Are clearances for belts, pulleys and pellet moving chambers enough
    -Does the speed control work as planned
    -Do other variables need to be measured (output/input temp??)

what is the schedule?
    -Fast paced! 
    -Finish Design-May 15
    -Cut / Assemble parts - May 20
    -Design / Test electronics- May 22
    -Fix problems - hopefully there are none......

    -Metal version - variable, dependent on design modifications, machine access, etc

how will it be evaluated?
    -Design completed
    -Electronics function as desired
    -Components built within tolerance/spec
    -(Wooden version will not function, but design changes can be determined from working model)