Western Kentucky University
WKU Autoloader Project
Institution
Western Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Chris Byrne
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to design, build, and test a device that would automatically load test samples into an aluminum sheet testing machine. The device was used by lab technicians to automatically load a testing machine that monitored the grain texture of aluminum samples to maintain an acceptable level of quality. This design project was sponsored by a local industrial manufacturer, who coordinated design requirements and specifications. Major goals of the design include the ability for the device to grab an aluminum sample, scan a barcode, lubricate that sample, and place the sample in the correct location for the aluminum sheet tester. Additional design requirements were for the device to have its own support structure, include a storage rack for samples, and be effective in handling a range of thicknesses from 0.005" to 0.015". Some other desired constraints were to keep the footprint of the device to a minimum and provide mechanical and electrical drawings of the completed system.
WKU Autoloader Project
The purpose of this project was to design, build, and test a device that would automatically load test samples into an aluminum sheet testing machine. The device was used by lab technicians to automatically load a testing machine that monitored the grain texture of aluminum samples to maintain an acceptable level of quality. This design project was sponsored by a local industrial manufacturer, who coordinated design requirements and specifications. Major goals of the design include the ability for the device to grab an aluminum sample, scan a barcode, lubricate that sample, and place the sample in the correct location for the aluminum sheet tester. Additional design requirements were for the device to have its own support structure, include a storage rack for samples, and be effective in handling a range of thicknesses from 0.005" to 0.015". Some other desired constraints were to keep the footprint of the device to a minimum and provide mechanical and electrical drawings of the completed system.