Our project:
To build & program a machine to move washers into a user-specified configuration on a game board. Along the way, we use image processing, 3D printing, electromagnet control, user interface design, position control, & structural design.
The goal of this group is to work together to create an autonomous system that moves washers around a game board based on user input. The system must be closed-loop and follow the customer specifications of being user-friendly, quiet, safe, inexpensive, and robust. In order for this system to be built successfully, our group has completed three different sub-projects (Project 1, Project 2, and Project 3). These sub-projects provide and improve the necessary skills to plan, design, and create the final project. These necessary skills include programming in MATLAB/Simulink, creating customer and engineering requirements, system integration, and rapid prototyping.
The final design is "The Record Player". This design consists of a camera and lights positioned above the board with a mechanical arm next to the board. When the programs starts, the mechanical arm with an electromagnet will rotate over the board to a fixed position. The board will then spin until the desired washer is underneath the arm, and the arm will pick up a washer with the electromagnet. The board will then spin again so the arm with the electromagnet can place the washer in an empty space on the game board. Once the user's selected washer configuration is complete, the lights will change to indicate the process has been completed.