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Design of a chocolate tempering machine
This industry-supported project resulted in a detailed design of the mechanical
components and systems to construct a working prototype of a chocolate
tempering machine. Tempering is one of the processes in large-scale production
of chocolate in companies such as Hershey.
Design of a trailer hitch lift
This project supported by the Bucknell Small Business Development Center
involved the design of an innovative lift mechanism that can be attached
to the trailer hitch on the rear of a car or truck. The actuated lift
can be used to raise and carry items up to 500 lbs. On this project I
worked with an entrepreneur in Philadelphia who had "jerry rigged"
a crude prototype. The original device was not kinematically efficient
and was not easily manufacturable. A junior ME student and I refined the
sponsor’s concept and performed force analysis to ensure its proper
function. The customer recently contacted me to say that he has obtained
a "six figure marketing contract" with a distribution firm for
this device.
Design and Development of the PikRite Chili Pepper Harvester
For this project we worked closely with PikRite personnel to design and
develop an automated chili pepper harvester for the dry fields in the
southwest. PikRite has been producing automated tomato harvesters and
cucumber harvesters for ten years. Our team which included Professor Keith
Buffinton, four seniors, two juniors and a sophomore developed various
facets of the new harvester. PikRite sold three of the harvesters for
the fall, 1998 harvesting season.
Design of an automated soap-wrapping machine
This project involved the design of an automated soap-wrapping machine
for a local manufacturer. The company produces organic, aromatherapy soap.
Jason Sundberg worked on this project for his masters thesis that he completed
in August, 1999.
Design of an automated glue machine
This project involved the design of an automated glue-dispensing machine
for Bassett Manufacturing. Bassett produces wood floor-bridging units.
The glue machine facilitates the process of gluing the flanges in the
assembly of the product. The machine was designed, fabricated and tested
by Joseph Hahn who worked on this as part of his graduate thesis that
was completed in July, 2000. The machine has been installed and is being
used by Bassett.
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