My Final Project example

Defining the Briquette Maker to start using the documentaion process.

Research

I will focus on the strong materials that can withstand the compressive forces requred to press the briquettes. The other thing is to select square screws that will make travelling up and down smooth. The addition of a hydraulic press to compress the briqutes. I have to add sensors and a pressure gauge to know the amount of pressure reqired to depress the briquettes.

2D and 3D Modeling

The following are picture models of the old version that I needs to upgrade. The manual screws that lift the ram will be moved by 2 x stepper motors that will be syncronised.

Materials

Item	Price	Link	Description
1	22.00 $	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=stepper+motor&ref=nav_bb_sb	Order many
2	22.00 $	https://www.amazon.com/Fully-Threaded-Stainless-Steel-Finish/dp/B0D2J6GQ4W/ref=sr_1_5?content-id=amzn1.sym.918a99dd-4826-4c0a-be33-a6705d69c4cf%3Aamzn1.sym.918a99dd-4826-4c0a-be33-a6705d69c4cf&crid=30EMIYCHFKUA1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ZDw7COGFfbdYxsbsd9tQaOiukP2KR-_MpkUXV5Cqmg-qhadgh7KrlW-NI6tyISdh9OfYqUaUzHF6BEv0sUj0fPLc-1yEFjIR5O2gg5h-hSuddQ9YJSN5AIexd74q1zHMZNP4rz7-7ArznCeXsWfO0dyQuVAz34EMjfBWYyEQxbPY6nnsQghOy2oILbR43zmaZnrgkcJqTGwzzNWyEabBuYX9NgW7_LXNSYVJ0gNroyNw3Wsy8LeQdXPQeGQQ40YoqURWhZ9oTVHiRcj63BeFQU3Pj3Cl9zGb8Ds2TSifgZ5x9S6N2Ve4Mb6lwPQ0oNyXc_OW3taMcLUlq6JoqqFUg5r-3GO23UXuT1n_AS5W2oI.dJ0ZzGp4RNOFbxuAt3_cRjmp3ikEL8Rj9ZSaHV0nXI4&dib_tag=se&keywords=threaded+studs&pd_rd_r=299c7948-f561-4fe5-a0d0-2a71db517ff6&pd_rd_w=FzzMA&pd_rd_wg=yJw8M&pid=ZyQVFXG&qid=1738319352&s=industrial&sprefix=square%2Bthreaded%2Bstud%2B20mm%2Caps%2C628&sr=1-5
3	22.00 $	https://www.amazon.com/Stark-Hydraulic-Air-Operated-Portable-Profile/dp/B08843SH3F/ref=sr_1_7_sspa?crid=33WHCHIJP6SSO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lr7AgITocdS7G-tPN0aZo_wV_wBG0fb7GNaB-ZULZYUdwhyNgQdWBJ87KbIbi0bQZ0S42ItkmeIRlwogdIaWCZ3oMWNVb-sUBxQNcdqAJ-MUuPW8WllK-u8Urmq6thGKqdeHfKDPWteqTVDoVyavakl4XyJRn3YXu_wban4HK_jzTQQSAvppiOoPsV0m26s8XEcUyD0_gKpic11idXnxey1nRC2ue_sgmpWjwFXpLzs.Q-I5fFMjvbpPw22qBid5zPvOw4rxR3g4xkXf7rcQKVo&dib_tag=se&keywords=hydraulic+jack&qid=1738319748&sprefix=hydraulic+jack%2Caps%2C408&sr=8-7-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9tdGY&psc=1
4	22.00 $	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Steel+material&crid=3CJUCNN2OBJVD&sprefix=steel+material%2Caps%2C581&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Project Concept

1. Brainstorm Ideas

I have already explained how I would like my project to be like in week 1. The project is version 1 and I would like to make it into version 2 to include synchronized stepper motors with programmable control and a hydraulic system that can give out a readout of pressure. The previous system didn’t have that.

Define the Scope: Version 2 Upgrades with Synchronized Stepper Motors

1. Frame and Structure

• Retain the Existing Frame: Keep the current green frame as it provides a sturdy base. Ensure it's robust enough to support the additional components.

2. Synchronized Stepper Motors

• Motor Placement: Install at least two stepper motors at strategic locations, likely at the base or sides of the machine. These motors would drive different parts of the pressing mechanism or contribute to the hydraulic system's operation.
• Synchronization: Use a microcontroller or a dedicated stepper motor controller that can handle multiple motors. This controller will ensure that the stepper motors move in sync by providing precise step pulses to both motors simultaneously. This could be achieved through:
  • Software Synchronization: The microcontroller (like an Arduino or Raspberry Pi) would send step signals to both motors at the same time, ensuring they start, stop, and move in unison.
  
  • Hardware Synchronization: Alternatively, use a stepper motor driver that supports multi-axis control, like a CNC controller, which can manage synchronization directly.

3. Programmable Control (Microcontroller)

• Microcontroller Enclosure: Mount the microcontroller in a protective enclosure on the machine's frame, ensuring it's accessible yet protected.
• Control Interface: The microcontroller setup would include:
  • Inputs: Position sensors for the press, start/stop buttons, emergency stop, and a pressure sensor for the hydraulic system.
  Outputs: To control the stepper motors, hydraulic valve, and possibly indicators or alarms.
• Programming:
  • Develop a program to manage the sequence of operations, ensuring the stepper motors move in sync, the hydraulic system pressurizes correctly, and the press operates with precision. This programming would include:
  • Step Sequencing: To control the movement of the stepper motors in precise steps.
  • Pressure Control: To integrate with the hydraulic system for pressure regulation based on sensor feedback.

4. Hydraulic System with Pressure Readout

• Hydraulic Jack Upgrade: Keep the existing hydraulic jack but add:
  • Pressure Sensor: A pressure transducer connected to the hydraulic line, interfacing with the microcontroller for real-time pressure monitoring.
  • Digital Display: Position a digital display near the operator area or integrate it into the control interface for displaying pressure readings.
• Hydraulic Lines: Ensure all hydraulic components are securely installed and routed to prevent damage and ensure efficiency.

5. Control Panel

• Location: Place the control panel at an ergonomic height for the operator.
• Components:
  • Start/Stop Buttons: For manual operation.
  • Emergency Stop: A prominent, easily accessible button.
  • Touch Screen or Display: For programming, monitoring machine status, pressure, and operation logs.
  • Indicator Lights: To indicate machine states like running, error, or ready.

6. Safety Features

• Guards: Install protective guards around the moving parts to prevent injuries.
• Interlock Switches: Use safety interlocks on access panels or doors.
• Warning Labels: Clearly mark all potential hazard areas.

7. Testing and Calibration

• Initial Testing: Run the machine without load to test stepper motor synchronization, hydraulic pressure readings, and control logic.
• Load Testing: Gradually apply load to verify system performance under operational stress.
• Calibration: Calibrate the pressure sensor and adjust the stepper motor steps for precision.

Additional Considerations

• Power Supply: Ensure a stable and sufficient power supply for all components.