Within this section of my portfolio, you'll discover a series of hands-on projects that extend beyond the typical academic scope. These endeavors primarily involve computer-aided design (CAD), paired with the practical application of laser cutting and 3D printing. The journey here is one of exploration and skill-building, leading up to my current challenge: developing a series of increasingly complex robotic models. This progression is deliberate, setting the stage for an ambitious goal – constructing a fully functional industrial robotic arm by the end of college, which might also serve as the centerpiece for my senior design project. I have a couple of ideas in order to make this project unique and not just a generic 4 degrees of freedom robotic arm you can find on the internet.
In my exploration of mechanical components essential for robotics, I've dedicated considerable time researching various reductive gear systems such as: epyciclic, harmonic, cycloidal etc... This led me to the creation of a 2-Stage 25:1 Herringbone Planetary Gearset. The hands-on experience of assembling and testing this gearset provided practical insights into gear mechanics and their efficiencies. Understanding the nuances of this complex gear arrangement has been instrumental, offering a solid foundation for incorporating such mechanisms into future projects, particularly those involving precision and control in robotic applications. I had to make this project under a time crunch before my flight back home, and am happy with the result. However, I am currently adding a couple of adjustments in order to ensure I can re-use this gearbox and have the flexibility to stack a different number of stages based on the need.