Title: A comprehensive punch-press project for an undergraduate course on mechanical systems design

Authors: Petru A. Simionescu; Eric W. Constans

Addresses: Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA ' Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN 47803, USA

Abstract: In this paper, a semester-long project for an undergraduate mechanical-systems-design course is presented. The project requires students to perform kinematic and load torque analysis of a crank-driven punch press, choose a suitable electric motor, and calculate the moment of inertia of the flywheel such that an imposed coefficient of speed fluctuation is ensured. Then students select a pair of sheaves and the V-belt of the first stage of the press transmission, and size for endurance the second stage consisting of a pinion-shaft and the mating gear. In the process, students perform kinematic and energy balance calculations which they compare with Working Model 2D simulations of the crank press. While collaboration is encouraged, students choose their own set of design parameters, and present their work as individual written reports. This comprehensive project was very well received by the undergraduate mechanical engineering students at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi and can be adopted as is or with modifications at other universities.

Keywords: project-based learning; engineering calculations; computer simulation; crank press.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSPR.2022.121676

International Journal of Student Project Reporting, 2022 Vol.1 No.1, pp.83 - 98

Received: 13 Jun 2021
Accepted: 08 Sep 2021
Published online: 23 Mar 2022 *