MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
1.0 TITLE
Introduction to basic pneumatic circuits
2.0 ABSTRACT
The main purpose of this experiment is to study the function of pneumatic components and circuit, understand the application of single and double acting cylinder and distinguish the application of direct and indirect control of single and double acting cylinder. We start our experiment with collect all the directional control valve and other components same as in pneumatic diagram. Construct and arrange according to the schematic diagram given and test whether the piston extended after the push button is applied. Repeat the procedure for the other pneumatic diagrams and record all the result.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
3.0 OBJECTIVE
After finishing the laboratory session, students should be able to: i.
Understand the function of every component for pneumatic circuits and the connectivity.
ii.
Construct an accurate pneumatic circuit using the required equipment and material.
iii.
Identify the application differences between single and double acting cylinder.
4.0 INTRODUCTION
Pneumatic systems form the most primitive and distinct class of mechanical control engineering. They are classified under the term 'Fluid Power Control', which describes any process or device that converts, transmits, distributes or controls power through the use of pressurized gas or liquid. In a pneumatic system the working fluid is a gas (mostly air) which is compressed above atmospheric pressure to impart pressure energy to the molecules. This stored pressure potential is converted to a suitable mechanical work in an appropriate controlled sequence using control valves and actuators.
Pneumatic actuators, usually cylinders, are widely used in factory floor automation. Lately, robotics as well is starting to use pneumatics as a main motion power source. One of the major attractions about pneumatics is the low weight and the inherent compliant behavior of its actuators. Compliance is due to the compressibility of air and, as such, can be influenced by controlling the operating pressure. pressure. This is an important feature whenever there is an interaction between man and machine or when delicate operations have to be carried out (e.g. handling of fragile objects. Several types of pneumatic actuators — e.g. e.g. cylinders, bellows, pneumatic engines and even pneumatic stepper motors — are are commonly used to date.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Pneumatic systems are well suited for the automation of a simple repetitive task. The working fluid is abundant in nature and hence the running and maintenance cost of these systems are exceptionally low.
All fluids have the ability to translate and transfigure and hence pneumatic systems permit variety of power conversion with minimal mechanical hardware. Conversion of various combinations of motions like rotary-rotary, linear-rotary and linear-linear is possible. The simplicity in design, durability and compact size of pneumatic systems make them well suited for mobile applications. These features make them versatile and find universal applications including robotics, aerospace technology, production and assembly of automotive components (power steering, chassis and engine assembly), CNC machines, food products and packaging industry, bomb deployment units and fabrication process of plastic products.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
5.0 EQUIPMENT & APPARATUS
Air supply system (compressor)
Single acting cylinder
Double acting cylinder
3/2 directional control valve – push button operated
3/2 – single pilot DVC
5/2 single pilot DVC
5/2 – double pilot DVC
3/2 double pilot DVC
Figure 5.1 : Air Supply System (compressor)
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Figure 5.2 : Tube
Figure 5.3 : Single acting cylinder
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Figure 5.4 : 5/2 single pilot DVC
Figure 5.5: Double acting cylinder
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Figure 5.6 : 3/2 single pilot DVC
Figure 5.7 : 3/2 directional control valve – push button operated
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
6.0 PROCEDURE
6.1 Direct Control of Single Acting Cylinder 1. Set up the system as shown in the schematic diagram.
Figure 6.1.1 : Direct Control of Single Acting Cylinder
2. Turn on the compressor. 3. Push the button to extend the cylinder. 4. Release button to retract the cylinder.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
6.2 Indirect Control of Single Acting Cylinder (Normally Closed Valve)
1. Set up the system as shown in the schematic diagram.
Figure 6.2.1 Indirect Control of Single Acting Cylinder (Normally Closed Valve)
2. Turn on the compressor. 3. Push button to extend piston. 4. Release button to retract piston.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
6.3 Indirect Control of Single Acting Cylinder (Normally Open Valve)
1. Set up the system as shown in the schematic diagram.
Figure 6.3.1 Indirect Control of Single Acting Cylinder (Normally Open Valve)
2. Turn on the compressor. 3. Push button to retract piston. 4. Release button to extend piston.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
6.4 Indirect Control of Double Acting Cylinder (5/2 DCV with Single Pilot Operated and One Push Button)
1. Set up the system as shown in the schematic diagram.
Figure 6.4.1 : Indirect Control of Double Acting Cylinder (5/2 DCV with Single Pilot Operated and One Push Button)
2. Turn on the compressor. 3. Push button to extend piston. 4. Release the button retract piston.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
6.5 Indirect Control of Double Acting Cylinder (5/2 DCV with Double Pilot Operated and Two Push Button)
1. Set up the system as shown in the schematic diagram.
6.5.1 : Indirect Control of Double Acting Cylinder (5/2 DCV with Double Pilot Operated and Two Push Button)
2. Turn on the compressor. 3. Push left button to extend the piston. 4. Push right button to retract piston.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
7.0 RESULT
7.1 Direct control of a single acting cylinder
Schematic Diagram
Figure 7.1 : Schematic diagram of direct control of a single acting cylinder.
Actual figure
Figure 7.1.1: Single acting cylinder in home position
Figure 7.1.2 : Single acting cylinder is retract condition
Description: Air from compressor will flow direct to the back of single acting cylinder and make the piston to retract when student push the push button. Piston will be back at initial condition when student release the push button.
Table 7.1 :Direct control of a single acting cylinder
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
7.2 Indirect control of a single acting cylinder
Schematic Diagram Condition 1:
Actual figure Condition 1:
Figure7.2 : Schematic diagram of Single acting cylinder in normally closed valve
Figure 7.2.1: Single acting Cylinder when valve is normally closed
Condition 2:
Condition 2:
Figure7.2.2 : Schematic diagram of Single acting cylinder in normally open valve
Figure7.2.3: Picture of Single acting Cylinder when valve is normally open
Description: When student push the push button, air from compressor flow to the 3/2 single pivot valve and push it to the right. Air from the single acting cylinder released to air surrounding and return in initial position after student released the push button.
Table 7.2 : Indirect control of a single acting cylinder
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
7.3 Indirect control of a double acting cylinder
Schematic Diagram
Actual figure
Condition 1:
Condition 1:
Figure7.3 : Schematic diagram of 5/2 DCV with single Pilot operated and one push button
Figure7.3.1: Picture of 5/2 DCV with single Pilot operated and one push button at initial position
Figure7.3.2 : Double acting cylinder retract after student push the push button
Description: Double acting cylinder retracted when student pushed the push button. 5/2 DCV with single pilot was pushed to the right and air from compressor filled up the back side of double acting cylinder and piston retracted. Piston return to original place after button is released.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Condition 2
Condition 2
1
2
Figure7.3.4 : Double acting cylinder initial condition
Figure7.3.3: Schematic diagram of 5/2 DCV with double pilot operated and two push button
1
2
Figure 7.3.5: Student push the push button 1 and double acting cylinder is retract
Description: Piston retract when student push the push button 1. This is because Air from compressor will flow through push button and push the 5/2 DCV to the right. When student push the push button 2 air from compressor push the 5/2 DCV to the left and fill up front side of the double acting cylinder. It is caused the piston to return at initial condition.
Table 7.3 : Indirect control of a double acting cylinder
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
8.0 DISCUSSION
Pneumatic control valve and pressure regulators work together to control the amount of air that passes through a pneumatic system. They influence the flow rate of pressurized gas, which in turn influences the speed at which an actuator operates. This elegant system is used in a variety of industries, from mining and construction to aeronautics and automotive.
Controlling the flow of pressurized gases, such as air or nitrogen, provides a source of energy that is more efficient than relying upon an electrical motor. Below, we'll describe how a pneumatic system works, the components found in such a system, and the role of a pneumatic control valve in its operation. We'll also discuss where pneumatic systems, along with control valves and pressure regulators, are used.
How A Simple Pneumatic System Works
A pneumatic system works by compressing gas into a limited space. The compression doesn't alter the amount of energy contained in the gas. It merely constricts its volume, resulting in increased pressure. The more constricted the volume, the greater the pressure found in the gas. This single principle makes possible the operation of myriad tools and other applications.
It's important to note that the act of compressing gas and creating pressure is not enough. It's the controlled release of the compressed gas that powers the aforementioned tools and applications. When the gas is allowed to escape, it's used to exert force against a solid object, moving that object in some way.
The challenge is optimizing the flow rate of the gas to ensure that minimal energy is wasted. That's the job of pneumatic control valves and pressure regulators, both of which we'll discuss in more detail in a few moments.
Also worth noting is the fact that pneumatic systems produce a relatively small footprint compared to other energy sources. The use of compressed gas - essentially air generates little in the way of hazardous waste or contaminants. Moreover, the widespread 17
MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
availability of air makes it an infinitely affordable source of energy. In addition, compared to hydraulic systems, pneumatics are safer, more reliable, and simpler in design.
Parts That Are Found In A Pneumatic System
We noted above that the basic design of a pneumatic system is simple. That simplicity is evident in the small number of parts found in it. A basic assembly includes a compressor, storage tank, actuator, one or more feed lines, pressure gauges, and a number of valves, including safety, check, and control valves.
Despite the device's underlying simplicity, there are numerous configurations designed to meet specific needs. For example, some pneumatics are designed to be used in mechanical tools, air guns, exercise equipment, and the brake systems found in motor vehicles. Others are employed in cable jetting, vacuum pumps, pipe organs, and a broad range of robotics. These systems are used in countless applications that affect companies and consumers on a daily basis.
Operation Of A Pneumatic Control Valve
Recall that the operation of a pneumatic system is based on airflow - specifically, the flow of pressurized air. When it is released, the air exerts force on an object, moving or powering it. The job of a pneumatic control valve is to inhibit the flow of air, and when appropriate, direct it to its destination.
Pneumatic control valves facilitate airflow in only one direction. Multiple valves are used to create flow patterns that accommodate the needs of the application.
In order for compressed air to exert the proper amount of force upon an object, it must contain the right amount of pressure. Too little or too much pressure will cause the pneumatic system to operate at a subpar level of performance. A pressure regulator is used to ensure that the level of pressure stays within a specified range. Slight variations in the level are acceptable as long as the range remains unbroken.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
Examples Of Pneumatic Systems In Use
Few consumers would be able to specify places in which they've seen pneumatic systems in use. However, most people have seen them, even if they didn't realize it at the time. For example, anyone who has taken his or her vehicle to an auto repair shop will have witnessed pneumatics being used. Likewise, anyone who has sat in a dentist's chair will have observed pneumatic systems in use. From research labs to road construction sites, there are countless applications that rely on them.
For companies that need to streamline processes that rely on compressed air, the right pneumatic system offers an affordable, efficient means of flow optimization. They're reliable, durable, and can be employed in a broad range of industrial applications.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
9.0 CONCLUSSION
In conclusion, the objectives of the experiment have achieved. The use of basic pneumatic components and circuit has been learnt and can be easily understood. Components used such as cylinder, control valve with push button and single pilot are commonly found in real life application especially during lecture and laboratory experiment. Moreover, the application of single and double acting cylinder can be distinguish where single acting cylinder only extends by pressure from a pump and then retracts by spring while double acting cylinder uses hydraulic power to both extend and retract. The application of direct and indirect control of single and double acting cylinder is understood. Direct control refers to the cylinder is being actuated directly via a manually or mechanically actuated valve without any intermediate switching of additional control valve. Indirect control usually used in cylinder with a larger piston diameter which has high air consumption rates. Through this experiment, we are able to construct accurately and arrange the component of pneumatic circuit systematically. It is also an advantage where we able to learn to find the correct component and equipment based on schematic drawing given. All in all, the experiment is successful.
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
10.0
REFERENCES
IAT Curriculum Unit (2011), Basic Pneumatic: Di rect and I ndir ect Contr ol of Doubl e , Institute of Applied Technology Acti ng Cyli nder
Raghavan. N., (n.d), Pneumatic Control f or Robotic and I ndustrial A utomation . Retrieved on 2016, October 20 from www.zen94865.zen.co.uk/resources/ Robot Construction/Mechanics/ pneumatic .PDF
Daerden, F. & Lefeber, D., (n.d), Pneumatic Ar tif ici al M uscles: A ctuators f or Robotic and Automation , Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Retrieved on 2016, October 20 from
lucy.vub.ac.be/publications/Daerden_Lefeber_EJMEE.pdf
Winshaw Hydraulic Tools, (2014), What I s Th e Dif ference Between Singl e Acting An d Double Actin g Cyli nder s? . Retrieved on 2016, October 21 from
http://www.winshawhydraulictools.com/blog/services-and-training/what-is-the-differencebetween-single-acting-and-double-acting-cylinders/
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MEM 665 : ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION LAB REPORT : INTRODUCTION TO BASIC PNEUMATIC CIRCUITS
11.0 APPENDIX
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