Objectives:
Demonstrate skills and knowledge attained throughout the Mechatronics Academy
Apply safety practices and adhere to industry standards (NFPA 79).
Design and create electrical and fluid power schematics.
Develop a PLC program to control an automated system.
Construct an automated machine that performs a specific task.
Demonstrate effective teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Communicate technical information clearly and concisely.
Estimated time to complete all items: 7 weeks
This final project is designed to assess your understanding and application of the mechatronics principles learned throughout the year. You will work in teams of two (maybe 3) to design, construct, and program an automated machine. This project will require you to integrate knowledge and skills from various areas, including electrical systems, fluid power, power transmission, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Team Formation and Concept Selection
Form teams of two students.
Brainstorm and select an automated machine concept.
The concept should be complex enough to demonstrate the skills learned in the courses but simple enough to complete in the given time frame.
Consider real-world applications for inspiration.
Check-in 1: Present your chosen concept and initial design ideas to the instructor for approval. Be prepared to explain the machine's function, the automation process, and the components you plan to use.
Design and Schematics
Develop detailed schematics for the electrical system, PLC, and fluid power system.
Electrical Schematic: Include all electrical components, wiring connections, power sources, and safety devices. Follow NFPA 79 standards for symbols and layout.
PLC Schematic: Illustrate the input and output connections between the PLC and the machine's components (sensors, actuators, etc.).
Fluid Power Schematic: Design the pneumatic or hydraulic circuit, including all components (cylinders, valves, compressors/pumps, etc.) and their interconnections.
Create a truth table to outline the logical operation of the machine.
Check-in 2: Submit your schematics and truth table to the instructor for review. Be prepared to explain your design choices and how the system is intended to function.
Eelctrical Schematics: Circuit Lab
Pneumatic Schematics: SMC Pneu Draw
PLC Schematics: Use this template