Mechanical Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer
Jason Moore
Air Motor
This was a project for my Computer Aid Design and Manufacturing class where we were tasked with creating an air motor. We were required to use HSMworks to create 2D and 3D toolpaths for the various features on each component. Upon completion, we had to provide machine setup sheets, technical drawings and first article inspections for every part.
Since we were running multiple different parts with limited time, we had to figure out a way to decrease setup times for each operation to speed up production. Our solution was a system consisting of a vise, plate and pallet. The vise was mounted and aligned onto the plate which had locating holes to accuratly and consistantly mount it to the pallet. This was necessary since the mill was constantly being used for different parts that were in various stages of completion. With this system we could simply swap out vises and pick up the operation where it was left off. The system was made with repeatabilty, accuracy and time in mind.
The motor consists of a piston, rack, gear, intake and exhaust valve, shaft and a flywheel. The rack generates a torque on the shaft which is transfered to the flywheel through a key. This causes the flywheel to produce an anguler momentum that it tranmitts back into the system through the linear bearing in the gear.
Overall the motor is very simple using basic machining and mechanical design concepts. Every part is within tolerance some of which being out to .0000 place.
As it is with all projects, the air motor didn't run on the first try. But after making some minor adjustments with the air pressure and springs, the motor became fully operational. The flywheel is not necessary for the motor to run but when it's integrated into the system it runs more smoothly.