Desarrollo de un sistema neumático para la clasificación de materiales metálicos y no metálicos en una banda transportadora

Abstract

This project focused on the design and construction of a prototype industrial materials sorter. Using pneumatic technology and an automated conveyor belt, the system manages to accurately separate different types of materials, contributing to improving efficiency in industrial processes. To classify materials, the system uses a pneumatic system that, activated by inductive sensors, directs objects towards a cylinder. Metallic materials, when detected by the sensors, activate the cylinder, diverting them to a specific area. Non-metallic materials continue their journey along the conveyor belt until they are detected and diverted in the same way. The status of each sensor is displayed by pilot lights on the electrical panel. For the design and development of the prototype, SolidWorks software was used to model each component of the sorter in 3D, from the main structure to the mechanical elements. Once the design was finalized, the parts were manufactured. At the same time, the electrical circuits were designed in the CADESIMU software, simulating the behavior of each electronic component. Finally, to control and coordinate the operation of the entire system, a LOGO! programmable logic controller (PLC) was implemented, programmed in LOGO! soft comfort. This PLC acts as the brain of the system, receiving signals from the sensors and activating the actuators according to programmed logic.