A UNIQUE SOLUTION FOR A UNIQUE PROJECT

Installed in the JPC Engineering workshop, this project was undertaken by a mechatronics student completing his final year work experience. The project was created with the intention of developing skills in relation to designing and fabricating solutions to a very unique project.

These skills included

· Optimised Programming

· 3D Modelling & Drawing
· Problem Solving

· Fabrication of Custom Parts

· Incorporating Safety Standards

· Safety Procedure Development

· Knowledge Development

· Project Planning

 
· Creative Thinking

The Bar Robot Project involved 5 key components

· Robot Programming

· Custom Robotic Tool Piece
· Refrigerator Insert

· Gripping & Conveyor System

· In House 3D Printing

· Safe Operating Area

Robot Program – The developed robotic program sports a well optimised solution ensuring the process is completed as quickly as possible without compromising product integrity, repeatability and safety.

Custom Robotic Tool Piece – The FANUC bar robot features a fully designed multi-function tool piece to allow the robot to open the refrigerator, grip and move bottles, remove the bottle caps and operate the gripping and conveyor system.

Refrigerator Insert – The refrigerator also features a custom insert designed to ensure the next bottle is always loaded into the correct position once a bottle has been removed.

Gripping & Conveyor System – A pneumatic gripping system was fully modelled and fabricated with the purpose of gripping the bottles allowing them to be removed from the robot’s tool piece as it moves away. The conveyor was a necessary inclusion for supporting the gripping system and providing a safe operating distance from the robot and any bar attendees.

In House 3D Printing – Both the robotic tool piece and the gripping system were constructed in house through JPC Engineering giving same day design and trial.

Safe Operating Area – In addition to the conveyor system, other safety mechanisms were put in place to ensure a safe operating area for the robot and nearby people. The implemented safety barriers, emergency stops, robotic limit switches and safety gate kill switches ensure the robot never differs from its intended use and keeps people safe from any danger.