Manufacturing:

Our manufacturing phase consisted of two main processes: 3D Printing and Laser Cutting.

We relied on these processes due to their convenience, safety, and simplicity relative to other popular processes.

We used 3D printing to create parts with unique non-2D shapes and strongly specific spacing. Our main 3D-printed components were our slip gear, stamp mount, and motor holder. These objects required incredibly specific spacing to function correctly and certain curvatures which would be very difficult to create through more hands-on procedures. Our 3D-printed part models can be seen below:

We utilized laser cutting to create parts that required rigidity and could be manufactured within a two-dimensional scope. These characteristics applied to all of our linkage bars for our specific application. We decided to go with 1/4-inch thick wood due to its rigidity and ease of access. Utilizing Solidworks, we created a sleek yet sturdy design that incorporated a universal hole pattern for instant adjustability in case we ever wanted to quickly adjust the geometry of the linkage. We based the hole diameter off that of the bearing blocks we used and utilized the Solidworks configurations feature to easily adjust between different bar lengths. Our linkage bar base model can be seen below:

Using the Solidworks configurations feature, we can instantly adjust the length of this base model to any length of choice. The below images showcase the various configurations we utilized:

Assembly:

With all of our parts printed and cut, we proceeded to organize them with the VEX parts we chose to use as our structural support pieces in order to begin construction on our conveyor system and linkage. We utilized a variety of 8-32 nuts, bolts, spacers, and bearings in order to construct the entire mechanism together with a universal fastener size. Utilizing these components, we assembled our base frame with our VEX metal, built in our conveyor system and slip gear, and then attached the linkage subassembly which contains the stamp to complete the system build-up.

These separate subsystems can be seen below:

Base Frame:

Conveyor Belt:

Slip Gear:

Linkage:

Stamp Holder: