This project serves as a tool to better understand mechanical and manufacturing processes by building and analyzing small scale machines. Our main goals are the following:
Analyze a full-scale mandrel tube extrusion machine
Create concepts and prototypes for a scaled-down desktop version
Choose the most appropriate materials and manufacturing processes for each part
Analyze our scaled-down machine to ensure it is operational and feasible
Assessing the success of these goals is mostly done using calculations and simulations of our finalized CAD model, as well as constant feedback via UC Berkeley staff to ensure the feasibility of each step.
Furthermore, each member of our team had personal motivations that interested them in this project, such as a better understanding of material selection for manufacturing use, or aiming to better their CAD skills.