Designing, Building, and Testing an Injection Molding Machine: A Team Project
The creation of an injection molding machine requires precision, coordination, and technical expertise. A team of students from Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Team F (Filip Florczyk, Daniel Hano, Jamie Neilan, Kacper Jaskiewicz, Michael Ferguson, Oran Wall, Ryan O Halloran Scanlan), embarked on a collaborative project to design, manufacture, and test a plastic injection molding machine capable of producing high-precision components efficiently. This endeavor demanded meticulous planning, effective teamwork, and the integration of multiple disciplines.
Project Initiation and Team Collaboration
The project commenced where the team gathered to assess individual strengths and weaknesses. This initial discussion allowed for the strategic allocation of tasks, ensuring that each team member contributed effectively to the overall success of the project. The key responsibilities were divided into three primary areas:
- 3D Modeling and Design
- Coding and Electrical Integration
- Project Management
3D Modeling and Mechanical Design
One of the first tasks was designing the machine components using parametric design software. This step was crucial for creating precise parts that would later be manufactured through various processes, including:
- 3D Printing – Used for prototyping and creating small components.
- Laser Cutting – Applied for precise cutting of sheet materials.
- CNC Machining – Utilized for complex parts requiring high accuracy.
Additionally, the assembly process involved drilling, tapping, trimming, and fitting components together to ensure structural integrity and seamless operation.
Coding and Electrical Integration
The machine’s functionality relied on the proper communication between electrical components. This was achieved using the Horner XL7 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The team programmed the PLC using Cscape software, enabling it to:
- Control the injection molding process
- Coordinate signals between sensors and actuators
- Ensure smooth and efficient operation
Project Management and Execution
A well-structured plan was essential to meet deadlines, distribute workload effectively, and maintain overall team cohesion. The project management process included:
- Timeline Development – Setting milestones and deadlines to track progress.
- Task Allocation – Ensuring each team member had clear responsibilities.
- Problem Solving – Addressing challenges and refining designs throughout the project.
Conclusion
Through teamwork, dedication, and skill development, Team F successfully built and tested an injection molding machine. This project not only showcased technical proficiency but also demonstrated the importance of collaboration in engineering. The final product stands as a testament to the effort and ingenuity of the team, paving the way for future advancements in plastic manufacturing technology.
Thank you to Team F for allowing us to share this success story!
Project by: Filip Florczyk, Daniel Hano, Jamie Neilan, Kacper Jaskiewicz, Michael Ferguson, Oran Wall, Ryan O Halloran Scanlan
Contact Filip for more information on this project: LinkedIn
