Design and Manufacturing of Educational Fiber Extrusion Device and Smart Factory
Name
bradley-russelb-meng-meche-2023-thesis.pdf
Description
Thesis PDF
Size
118.54 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
48d9b62618f06e5f5cd58ba2cb702157
Author(s)
Bradley, Russel
Advisor(s)
Anthony, Brian W.
Date Issued
June 2023
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
Fiber Extrusion Device (FrED) is a desktop fiber extrusion system that mimics continuous fiber draw process for hands-on learning and/or laboratory experience on data acquisition, control system, and smart manufacturing. It allows learners to perform experiments, vary manufacturing parameters and control system, collect data, and perform analysis. Sucessful classroom activities have been conducted with FrED, however, the prior model is too costly to distribute to individual learners, given the rise of distant learning and MOOCs. A partnership with a university in Mexico, Tec de Monterrey, was formed to develop a low-cost FrED. This thesis covers the design, development and production of the low-cost variant in detail. Specifically discussing in depth the electronics system of FrED and the design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA) process. An on-campus production and assembly facility, the FrED Factory, was made to mass produce FrEDs. The facility duals as a space for MIT students to learn about design and manufacturing. The FrED factory is undergoing digital transformation, aimed to streamline operations and to teach Industry 4.0 concepts. Three use cases are being developed: Machine Monitoring & Analytics, Smart Assembly Station and Digital Inventory Management. This thesis also covers the educational initiatives that has formed around the FrED ecosystem, both on-campus and with our partner university, Tecnologico de Monterrey, that has been conducted during the past academic year.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering
Terms of Use
In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
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