Robotic Arm Essay Example

arm based on our specifications.
- Create a hydraulic robotic arm capable of picking up a roll of electrical tape and having two or more degrees of freedom.
- Maintain detailed progress notes on the arm's design and daily advancements.
- Provide a CAD drawing with numbered parts.
- Prepare a Bill of Materials including additional information on all parts.

2.0 Customer Needs:
The customer requires that the arm exclusively operates using hydraulics and can move in at least two degrees of motion, if not more. The objective is to relocate a roll of tape six inches away from its original position.

3.0 Concept Generation:
To generate innovative ideas for the project, we extensively researched various designs online. After examining multiple options, we selected one design but made several modifications. To ensure optimal functionality, we incorporated different materials into the project. For instance, we observed a design where an arm was directly connected to a platform. While it provided stability, there was potential for additional ranges of motion.

Our team implemented a solution by drilling a hole in the platform and inserting a washer between the platform and a circular board that supported the arm. This allowed for smoother movement and rotation. We explored three similar designs, but the first one was too simplistic and limited in its range of motion compared to other AT ten toner ageless solutions. The initial idea was to attach a wooden platform to the arm using a screw, with a washer in between for rotation. A vertical piece of wood would serve as a base in the center of the circular structure.

In the next design, we planned to have two base arms connected to each

other with a support beam for added stability. The secondary arms attached to the base arm would pivot up and down, and a third arm would be attached to the end. The third arm would pivot more sharply than the second arm and have the claw attached at the end.

However, we encountered an issue with this design as the third arm would move too far down and struggle to return to its original position.

The third design resembled the first design, but it included a small square of wood attached to the base for improved mobility. The square was large enough to keep the two base arms about an inch apart. However, this arrangement posed problems as the entire arm relied on the small square and was prone to easy breakage. Additionally, pivoting became difficult due to the weight. To address these issues, a larger wooden shape for rotation was deemed necessary. Moreover, the straight base arm hindered the movement of the second arm as it could catch the ends.

In the concept selection stage, the project required a robotic arm operated by water with two or more degrees of freedom. The arm should be capable of picking up an electrical tape roll, extending at least six inches, and releasing it in a specific location. To meet these requirements, the arm was made longer for easy extension beyond six inches. Large syringes were obtained to further extend the reach. Furthermore, a hole was incorporated in the middle of the second set of arms to enhance maneuverability for tape picking.

In the final design, we integrated the three selected design ideas and focused on resolving areas that posed

challenges. For the rotating shape on the platform, we determined that a medium-large circle would be ideal since it would better distribute the weight.Our team determined that it would be advantageous to design two base arms that are curved and tall, thereby increasing the arm's height and enabling it to reach a height exceeding six inches. One team member suggested creating a long oval shape between the two secondary arms to allow for greater movement, facilitating easy object pick-up. The third arm would take the form of an "L" shape with the lower part of the "L" attached to the second arm. At the end of the third arm, a small baseboard resembling a skull shape would be connected for the claw. The claws are affixed to the baseboard using screws and a washer to reduce friction. The system's operation is as follows: the first syringe controls the rotating circle. By pushing the plunger inwards, the plunger moves outward ten cycles, causing the syringe to move ten times away from it. Conversely, pulling out the plunger draws the syringe towards it. The second syringe allows movement in the second arm. Pushing in its plunger causes another syringe attached to it to push a support beam on the second arm, extending it outwards. Conversely, pulling out the second syringe's plunger causes the opposite syringe to pull against the support beam, retracting the arm inwards. The third syringe controls the movements of the third arm shaped like an "L". When its plunger is pushed inwards, the third arm extends outward and slides against two holes in the second arm.

When the syringe is pulled outwards, it has

the opposite effect. The third arm slides into the second arm through long holes in the second arm. The fourth syringe controls the claw. By pulling out the plunger in the syringe, the attached syringe pulls on strings connected to the claw, causing it to open. Pushing in the plunger allows the strings to relax, leading to the closure of the claw. To prevent string snaps or rubber bands breaking, it is important to tie the string tightly and in the correct place and position.

If a string snaps near the claw, pull out the plunger fully and retie it tightly without any slack to where the strings were originally attached. In case a piece of wood breaks, try contacting the company for a replacement.

5.2 Design Drawings and Complete Parts List/ Bill of Materials

6.0 Conclusions/ProJect Summary

I believe our project successfully achieved its objective. We have a built prototype that not only meets but surpasses the required specifications. The JARS team developed a functional prototype using water, which can extend up to six inches and higher and has a wide range of motion. (needs work...)

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