Header Image: Adapted from [1]

Project Narrative 📢

Figure 1. CAD Model of the finalized mechanism

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Problem

Project: Design a Baggage and Passenger Checking System through a hardware-software mechanism.

• Goal: Create a simple and efficient mechanism to help move passengers’ luggage from one platform to the other, in a safer and faster way. Develop a Python-based system which will sort the luggage, accordingly with the mechanism and data provided.
• The motive of this project comes from a global travelling experience during COVID-19, where health safety measures made the process of checking in, getting through security, and boarding, much more complicated than it should be. </aside>

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This problem was given to Thurs-22, a group of 5, who were tasked with designing a system to improve the baggage and passenger checking process.

• The team had to create a mechanism to move luggage from one platform to another and sort it automatically based on criteria like size, weight, or destination.
• We also needed to build a Python-based software to manage and coordinate the sorting process, using data from the mechanism. </aside>

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Functions

• Needs to move luggage from Plate A to Plate B; at a safe speed.
• The ramp can fold and unfold accordingly.
• Organize luggage from QR scan; based on passenger’s ticket. </aside>

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Objectives

• Should not damage the luggage in the process of moving luggage.
• Move the luggage quickly, without causing any delays.
• Should include either the linear actuator or rotary actuator. </aside>

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Constraints

• Cannot be fixed past the restriction line while the mechanism is retracted.
• Cannot touch both platforms at the same time.
• Time constraint for 3D printing, for how long the parts take to print. </aside>

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Solution

After outlining the key do's and don'ts for the project, we focused on developing two main components to ensure the mechanism worked as expected:

• Rotary actuator: Which controls the movement of the ramp.
• Q-arm: Which controls the transportation of the luggage. </aside>

Figure 2. Rotary Actuator: Adapted from [2]

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Timeline of the project (10/03/2024 - 12/04/2024)

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Team’s Accomplishments + Personal Contribution 👥👥

Summary

I was in a team with four other like-minded individuals, and we all worked very well together. As a team, we were able to set goals, and accomplish every milestone together. We supported each other throughout the project, making sure we reached every milestone on time. Our shared goals and like mindset made the whole project phase smooth, and turned our innovate idea to a real world solution.

At the beginning of the project phase, every team member was given a role to choose from. Every member contributed equally and performed their role exceptionally. My role in the group was being a manager.

Manager

• Create Gantt Chart
• Agenda of Meeting Minutes
• Coordinate meetings + Make sure everything is submitted in time
• Take Leadership

Figure 3. Taken during the first day we were assigned as a group

Step 0: Starting the Project

Gantt chart

For a seamless project phase, I was tasked to create a preliminary Gantt chart which the group can follow along with, in order to ensure efficient time management, track progress, and align tasks with deadlines. This would help keep track of important tasks, manage resources well, and spot any potential problems early.

Figure 4. Manager: Preliminary Gantt chart

Scheduled Agenda

I was also in charge of keeping track of all the meetings, and creating an agenda for all the meeting which occurred during design studio. This was useful in helping everyone stay organized and focused on the key topics, making the meeting more productive.