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A project log for Pick-and-Place Machine

A custom-built pick-and-place machine running OpenPnP.

lanceLance 03/08/2021 at 17:060 Comments

Introduction

As with all first builds of a design, there was one thing that was certain: Changes were going to be required.  And likely, they were going to be frequent.  That's part of the process.  Debugging and testing were going to create an even greater need to access the electronics and mechanics in the base of the machine.  And that was going to be a problem.  Unscrewing the build plate or disassembling part of the machine wasn't going to an option.  This would require too much work and risk messing up machine alignment or setup.  The solution was to put the machine on hinges so it could be flipped up.

Setup

On one side of the machine, a set of hinges connects the machine to a base plate.  A set of 3D printed kickstands attached to the side provide a place for the machine to rest on.

Hinges and Kickstands
Hinges and kickstands are mounted to one side.

On the opposite side, there are some 3D printed brackets screwed to the mounting plate.  These are not attached to the machine.  They act to ensure the machine is repositioned in the same place each time it is tipped up and set back down.

Centering Stand for Foot
A centering stand opposite the hinges ensures the machine returns to the same position after being tilted up and set down.
Machine Flipped on the Side
The machine can be flipped up to access the electronics and mechanics on the underside.

Discussions