Project 3: Summary and Objectives

The main challenge for this project was to design a system for sorting and recycling containers based on their material. This project was split into two sub-teams. The computing sub-team had to program the Q-Bot to facilitate the transportation of containers. I was part of the modelling sub-team, where I had to design a mechanism which allows the hopper to deposit containers into their respective bins.

The main objectives of the project were:

1) Accurately differentiating containers and their properties.
2) Develop a reliable mechanism that can lift hopper sufficiently to facilitate depositing of containers.
3) Accurately transporting bins into correct bins.

[1]

Skills Gained

Significantly Improved 3D Modelling and Assembly Skills.

Learned and explored different mechanisms using linear and rotary actuators

Improved brainstorming techniques and collaboration skills while designing the mechanism

Utilized Creative problem solving to develop a creative and innovative mechanism

Team and Individual Contributions

As part of the modelling sub-team, I worked on developing a mechanism that attaches to the hopper to facilitate depositing of containers. The main objective of our sub-team was to make a reliable mechanism using the provided linear or rotary actuators which can lift the hopper sufficiently, so that the container can slid off the hopper. I started the design process with creating initial sketches for both actuators. Me and my teammate decided on using my linear actuator design after comparing all of our sketches. After this I helped my teammate to model the parts. I was also responsible to create a fully constrained assembly of our mechanism on Inventor with our parts. Once the assembly was functional on Inventor, I sliced all the ipt files and 3D printed them using the design studio and library 3D printers. I also carried out all of my duties as administrator to ensure all the team milestones were submitted on time. In the final report, I worked on source material database, engineering drawings, executive summary and making sure all the worksheets are attached.

Project 3: Final Report

Project 3: Final Demonstration

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Reflection

Working on this project 3 as part of the modelling team was a wonderful learning experience. This project demanded a combination of creativity, technical proficiency, and teamwork, pushing me to explore the boundaries of my knowledge and skills. Choosing between the linear and rotatory actuator wasn't just a technical decision, it made me realize how much I lean towards the familiar instead of what might be better or more efficient. ? Was choosing linear actuator purely based on the simplicity of integrating it into our design, or did it offer superior efficiency and reliability? Reflecting on this, I realize the importance of not just settling for what seems easier or more familiar but truly analyzing each option. Could exploring a rotatory actuator have introduced a simpler or more efficient design solution?

Being part of the team taught me a lot about how I communicate and work with others. Me and my teammate had different ideas, and finding a way to combine them together was challenging but rewarding in the end. The biggest challenge that we faced was combine translating the software design into a physical mechanism. What worked in theory in the assembly files didn't always pan out in reality. This taught me the value of testing and tweaking, over and over. This project was more than just a learning experience, it made me think about my future as an engineer and how I can contribute to solving real-world problems, especially when it comes to the environment.

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References

[1] P3 Project Module,” class notes for ENG 1P13, Department of Engineering, McMaster

University, Fall, 2024.

[2] “Website design: Design a website that sets you apart,” Wix.com, https://www.wix.com/website/design (accessed Jan. 8, 2024).