Nebojsa I. Jaksic

Sensor-based solution to contiguous and overlapping parts in vibratory bowl feeders

Abstract This paper discusses a vibratory bowl feeder with a computer-based sensor system that can recognize correctly oriented parts even when some are configuous or overlapping. Hardware consists of a vibratory bowl feeder, sensor system, control computer, and software development computer. The sensor system is a linear row of film optics in the side wall and track of the bowl. This configuration createsa 3-D silhouette of the part. An algorithm is developed to recognize parts in the orientation specified by the user. Test results show that the control program functions very well.

A feasibility study of electrochromic windows in vehicles

Thermal comfort of passengers is essential when they enter a vehicle parked in the sun for an extended period. Quickly achieving this comfort level and reducing fuel consumption at the same time can be accomplished by using electrochromic (EC) glass. Keeping the interior of the car cooler by controlling EC windows increases the fuel economy, comforts passengers faster and protects the vehicle components exposed to heat and solar radiation. The optical properties of EC glass are compared with other types of currently available glass types. The power load comparisons are analyzed through a software package, VSOLE. In VSOLE models, transmitted, absorbed, and reflected solar radiation analyses are conducted as functions of the optical properties of glass glazing, providing valuable insights on the usability of EC glass.

Development of a model for part reorientation in vibratory bowl feeders with active air jet tooling

Abstract Vibratory bowl feeders (VBFs) are widely used in industry for feeding and reorienting small parts in high volume production. Standard VBF tooling consists of various mechanical barriers inserted in the bowl path which are prone to jamming and limit the feeder to only one type of part. Programmable feeders have been developed to improve the flexibility of these devices, however feed rates are often low. This research describes the development of a model of part behavior required for reorienting a part with an air-jet-based computer controlled orienting system. This system can be used to eliminate jamming and improve feed rates in VBFs. The control algorithm accepts the parts weight, geometry, and its orientation. Sensors then compare the present with the desired orientation and the algorithm determines the appropriate pulse of air to produce the desired orientation.

Learning nanotechnology through experimentation: carbon nanotube manufacturing using an electric discharge machine

Abstract A novel nanotechnology laboratory experiment for a required junior/senior undergraduate engineering course, Engineering of Manufacturing Processes, is described and implemented. The experiment demonstrates a process of manufacturing carbon nanotubes using a method representing a variation on arc discharge. Carbon nanotubes are synthesized in oil by electric discharge machining using two graphite electrodes. The results are compared to a known empirical formula for material removal rate in electric discharge machining. A cost analysis of the process, determining the cost of as produced carbon nanotubes is performed. This 2-h experiment is complemented with a single 2-h lecture on nanotechnology creating a lecture-experiment nanotechnology module. Student learning outcomes for the module are developed, assessed, and analyzed. The results show a significant improvement in students’ knowledge. Student perceptions about nanotechnology, carbon nanotube manufacturing, and the need for life-long learning are assessed. Pedagogical justifications and sustainability of the nanotechnology lecture-experiment module within an undergraduate engineering curriculum are addressed.

Flexible Air-Jet Tooling for Vibratory Bowl Feeder Systems

Vibratory bowl feeders (VBFs) are machines that feed various small parts in large volume automatic assembly systems. Their shortcomings, like inflexibility and the propensity to jam, stem from the use of mechanical orienting devices. Air jet based orienting devices can be implemented to overcome these limitations. Applications of passive and active air jet based orienting devices that replace conventional devices for the VBF are discussed. Passive devices, which reject incorrectly oriented parts, are discussed first. Active air jet based orienting devices are introduced to further improve the flexibility of VBFs. Since active devices reorient parts into a desired orientation, the part motion under their influence is analyzed. A number of tests demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of these new orienting devices.