Automated Bushing Feeder Top
As part of my graduate research, I designed, manufactured, and programmed an automated bushing feeder. This device streamlines robotic manufacturing by automatically supplying bushings upon receiving input signals, eliminating manual placement, and significantly boosting efficiency.
Key Features and Contributions Top
- Automated Feeding Mechanism: Designed a robust system to consistently singulate and deliver bushings upon external triggers.
- Custom Manufacturing: Managed the fabrication of all feeder components, achieving tight tolerances and reliable performance.
- Integrated Programming: Developed control software to manage the feed sequence, process input signals, and ensure seamless integration with robotic systems.
- Improved Efficiency: Implementation in a robotic cell reduced cycle time and increased overall manufacturing throughput.
Figure 1 presents a CAD model of the feeder, while Figure 2 shows the completed project.
Design and Internal Components Top
The automated bushing feeder was engineered to be cost-effective and easy to manufacture. Key internal components, as shown in Figure 3, include:
- Stepper motors
- Stepper driver
- ACME screw
- Limit switch for bottom indexing position