Week of November 1

Hello bloggers! This past week the team was assigned MS6. In preparation for it, the team began to engineer our most critical module. The team decided that this module was the frame of our main body.





(Most critical module)





We started by improving on the solid models we previously made. This included attaching the wheels to the body and as well as making adjustments such as adding screw holes. The team also added the two rods to permit the joint to move vertically. After improvements, the team created CAD drawings for each part of our most critical module. Using these drawings, we will be able to progress to the manufacturing stage later on.






(CAD Drawing of frame of most critical module)



Another step we took was to improve upon one of our previous analysis from the design review. The team discussed the necessity of a counterweight on our machine in order to prevent tipping about the front axle. Previously, the analysis consisted of variables representing potential weights of our machine. We then substituted numerical values in for the variables using density and volume to solve for approximate weights. The only remaining variables are the weights of our other two modules, the arm, the joint, and the potential counterweight. The team also improved upon another analysis dealing with the power of the motors applied and determining whether our machine would be able to move a specific distance in a reasonable amount of time.

Step-by-Step Manufacturing Plan

Bill of Materials

Our plan for the upcoming weeks is to begin manufacturing the parts that we have CAD drawings for already. We also need to make further adjustments to other solid models and begin making drawings for those parts as well. Our main concern is picking the correct motor for each motion as well as coming to a decision on the installment of gears and motors to achieve the required motion. The team hopes to gain more information on this in the motor lab on Monday, November 9, 2009.