Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering projects focus on the design, prototyping, and optimization of physical systems. Students combine creativity with technical skills in areas such as robotics, manufacturing, and energy systems. Through hands-on experimentation and practical implementation, these projects deliver innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and real-world usability.
This project focuses on developing a modular, compact CNC plasma cutter specifically designed for student use at the Brunsfield Centre at the University of Ottawa. The current manual plasma cutter system poses safety risks and inefficiencies, making it difficult for students to engage in hands-on learning. The new system automates the cutting process, eliminating the need for manual torch handling and ensuring improved accuracy, safety, and accessibility. Key features include a portable, clamp-on frame design to fit existing lab setups, Z-axis height control for uneven materials, and a user-friendly interface. The project also integrates safety measures, including an emergency stop and instructional guides to ensure student safety. By addressing space constraints and improving usability, the CNC plasma cutter will enhance the learning experience, allowing students to engage with modern manufacturing technologies. This project modernizes the existing lab environment while ensuring safety and ease of use for students.
The CNC Tube Notcher provides a low-cost, in-house fabrication solution for UOttawa vehicle teams, eliminating outsourcing costs of $5,000–$6,000 per frame. The system uses the Modified Chuck with Axial Feed concept, offering unlimited tube length within a compact footprint. It utilizes deterministic LinuxCNC/Mesa FPGA control to achieve targets of ±0.3 mm linear and ±0.3∘ rotational accuracy, costing under $3,000 CAD.