Project Description
During our fourth semester, our education focused on manufacturing, particularly the future of manufacturing, known as Industry 4.0. We learned about smart manufacturing methodologies, operation management, and Lean Six Sigma.
For the semester project, we were tasked with designing a conveyor belt, developing the associated manufacturing processes, and using plant simulation to optimize production efficiency.
We designed and developed a conveyor belt that offers a competitive advantage in terms of quality and flexibility. Our conveyor belt was engineered to serve diverse industries, with automation integrated into certain parts of the production line to enhance efficiency.
Project Methodology
1. Product Development:
- Conducted research into the various components and mechanisms of conveyor belts.
- Analyzed different markets and common designs.
- Identified design choices and selected target markets for competition.
- Designed the conveyor belt using NX Siemens 3D modeling software.
2. Manufacturing Process:
- Identified the processes involved in manufacturing our conveyor belt.
- Sourced machinery, suppliers, and pricing for various machines.
- Calculated manufacturing costs and analyzed opportunities for cost reductions.
- Improved the product design to align with manufacturing processes, ensuring design for manufacturability.
3. Development of a Production Line:
- Set up a digital twin of the manufacturing line using Siemens Plant Simulation software.
- Incorporated assets such as media of parts and production times.
4. Production Line Efficiency Improvement:
- Identified bottlenecks in the production process.
- Established metrics to improve production efficiency.
- Optimized the production line for enhanced efficiency.
- Automated specific processes to reduce costs and conserve energy.
Project Contributions
1. Documentation:
- Documented all research and information collected throughout the project.
2. Project anagement:*
- Managed the project by distributing and tracking tasks among team members.
3. Programming:
- Programmed the automation for the gantry loader in SIMTALK for our production setup.
4. Report Editing:
- Edited the project report to ensure clarity and completeness.
5. Design Consultation:
- Acted as a sparring partner for the mechanical designer, researching market options and consulting with experts to make informed design decisions.
6. Tracking System Design:
- Designed a basic tracking system for the conveyor belt to help the team visualize the mechanism.
Key Competencies Developed
1. Project Management:
- Effectively managed project timelines, tasks, and team coordination to ensure successful project completion.
2. Market Analysis:
- Conducted thorough market analysis to identify trends, demands, and competitive products, informing strategic design decisions.
3. Documentation:
- Maintained comprehensive documentation of research, design processes, and project progress to ensure transparency and facilitate future reference.
4. Programming in SIMTALK:
- Developed proficiency in SIMTALK, programming automation processes to enhance the efficiency and functionality of the production line.
5. Simulation and Analysis Tools:
- Utilized plant simulation tools to create and optimize a digital twin of the manufacturing line, identifying and addressing inefficiencies.
6. 3D Modeling for Product Development:
- Employed NX Siemens 3D modeling software to design and visualize the conveyor belt, ensuring precise and effective product development.