Manufacturing Engineering (2nd)
These projects are at the endpoint of a two-semester sequence. They are functionally complete.
M2.01 Large Format Printer
Sponsor: Ingram Hall Makerspace (IHM)
Student Team: Maggie Morton, Brandon McLaughlin, and Olivia Renner
Faculty Advisor: Dr. James Davidson
The Ingram School of Engineering at Texas State University is home to a valuable asset: a large format 3-D printer that, unfortunately, has remained dormant in storage. However, this 3-D printer holds tremendous potential as a cornerstone of the Ingram Hall Makerspace, an integral extension of the School of Engineering. Bringing this printer back into operation and enhancing its functionality represents a crucial opportunity for the university to reclaim a significant investment currently lying fallow. Revitalizing this printer is not merely about salvaging equipment; it's about restoring a vital resource to the university community. By refurbishing and optimizing this technology, we're not only reclaiming an expensive but idle asset, but we're also enriching the learning environment within the Ingram School of Engineering. Moreover, by making this large format printer accessible, we're offering an unparalleled experience to those eager to explore its capabilities. This project's completion is essential not just for reclaiming lost value, but for unlocking new avenues of innovation and learning within our engineering community.
M2.02 Tubular Frame and Large Enclosure Workholding Tooling System
Sponsor: Bill Johnson, Athena Manufacturing
Student Team: Brandon Noria, Samuel Alvarez, Tracy Hall, Benicia Cooper
Faculty Advisor: Dr. James Davidson
We have established a lean systems methodology for designing and developing an efficient, modular work holding tooling system. This system is aimed at ensuring the secure and ergonomic dynamic positioning of medium to large tubular and sheet metal frames, as well as sheet metal enclosures, during mechanical assembly operations. The integrated and adaptable tooling system will incorporate various holding stands, platforms, and positioning mechanisms, allowing assembly technicians to swiftly and safely translate and rotate frames. This enables efficient assembly processes in a one-piece-flow manner, optimizing product quality and workflow within a constantly improving lean manufacturing environment.
M2.03 Electric Field Mill
Sponsor: Ingram School of Engineering
Student Team: Bryce Raybon, Musa Kurugu, Markell Evans
Faculty Advisor: Dr. James Davidson
We have creating a robust inner structure, rotating vane, and outer support structure for an electric field mill. An electric field mill is often used to measure the atmospheric electric field on the ground in order to predict lightning strikes. This project is an interdisciplinary project in collaboration with the electrical engineering team designated as E2.06.
M2.04 Paddle Shifter
Sponsor: Abhimanyu Sharotry, Bobcat Racing
Student Team: Daniel Moodie, Cristina Cervantes, Cecilia Schoener
Faculty Advisor: Dr. James Davidson
Our team is excited to partner with Bobcat Racing to continue our development of the automated transmission control system for the FSAE 2024 racecar. The shifter is electronically controlled by steering wheel mounted paddles which operate a series of pneumatic cylinders to shift the gears of the Yamaha motorcycle engine. Air is directed by electronically actuated solenoid valves whose operations are controlled by a Raspberry Pi Pico which affects the timing and duration of each shift. Methods used for manufacturing include CAD stress analysis, CNC machining and bi-material 3D printing
M2.05 Lighthouse Bend EZ Cap Punching Machine
Sponsor: Joshua Glaze, West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind & Center for High Performance Systems (CHiPS) Lab
Student Team: Kareem Abuqasem, Joey Huttenhower, Treyton Strong
Faculty Advisor: Dr. James Davidson
The West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind, located in San Angelo, Texas, is a manufacturing facility committed to employing individuals with visual impairments. Currently, the team at the facility is focused on implementing a modification to enhance safety measures on the punching press, a pivotal piece of equipment. This modification aims to address existing safety concerns while also ensuring that operational efficiency is either maintained or even enhanced. By prioritizing both safety and productivity, the team demonstrates their dedication to creating a conducive and inclusive work environment for all employees. This endeavor underscores the organization's commitment to innovation and social responsibility within the manufacturing sector.