Prototyping and Control of an Automatic Ceramic Tableware Finishing Device

Abstract

This paper presents a first prototype of an automated system that will be applied in stoneware tableware ceramics finishing, being developed in the scope of STC 4.0 HP project. The main objective of this prototype is to test different alternatives to obtain a precise finish on ceramic pieces produced by GRESTEL - PRODUTOS CERÂMICOS S.A, improving the production of irregular pieces that until now are finished using manual labor. This is why the implementation of a closed-loop control of the rotation speed of a finishing sponge and its applied force control is proposed. The mechanical structure of the devised solution was prototyped using a FDM based technology. A 3D printer was used for the manufacturing of the structural parts to support the rotating sponge and measurement sensors. In addition a PID based control is used to control the system. Once the prototype has been designed and assembled a series of tests and measurements were carried out leading to the conclusion that the proposed approach is adequate to meet the design requirements for this prototype.