Research Article
Design and Development of a Cartesian Robot for PCB Drilling: A Systematic Mechatronic Approach
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270836, author={Humphrey Nkosiyabo Dera and Engelbert Kapuya and Powell Mlambo and Kelvin Chihota and Eugenia Chiweshe and Ian Chipuri}, title={Design and Development of a Cartesian Robot for PCB Drilling: A Systematic Mechatronic Approach}, proceedings={EAI International Conference for Research, Innovation and Development for Africa}, publisher={EAI}, proceedings_a={ACRID}, year={2018}, month={4}, keywords={cartesian robot printed circuit board mechatronic system design methodology vdi guideline 2206 pahl and beitz design methodology}, doi={10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270836} }- Humphrey Nkosiyabo Dera
Engelbert Kapuya
Powell Mlambo
Kelvin Chihota
Eugenia Chiweshe
Ian Chipuri
Year: 2018
Design and Development of a Cartesian Robot for PCB Drilling: A Systematic Mechatronic Approach
ACRID
EAI
DOI: 10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270836
Abstract
Design of mechatronic products is a complex process which involves various engineering domains [1] [2] [3]. Choice of an appropriate systematic procedure for product design and development is important in mechatronic system design. The V model (VDI 2206) for mechatronic system design and the Pahl and Beirtz design methodology was suggested for the development of a Cartesian robot for Printed circuit board (PCB) drilling [2]. The system was subdivided into, mechanical, electronics and software engineering domains. Methods suitable for design in each domain were used, and sub systems were developed which then were integrated to develop the whole system. Software that extracts the coordinates of the holes from the gabber file was developed. The file of coordinates will then be transferred to the control unit which will then coordinated the actuators to move to the desired Cartesian coordinates and perform the drilling operation. A graphical user interface was developed also to input the coordinates manually. The designed Cartesian robot is a portable desk machine that can be used to perform the drilling operations. It can also be used as a teaching aid in the computer aided manufacturing courses to demonstrate the tool motion activities.
