Loading...
Person
Marnoto de Oliveira Campos, Francisco Mateus
3 results
Search Results
Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
- Electronics education during the COVID-19 pandemic: the use of a CAD framework in distance learning assignmentsPublication . Campos, Francisco M.Computer-aided design (CAD) software is a fundamental engineering tool that is often integrated into educational programs, including those for electronics. When the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide in 2020, an introductory electronics course at our Institution had to be reformulated due to restrictions on holding face-to-face classes. In this scenario, traditional lab tasks were replaced by computer-based assignments that students worked on using CAD software. This paper introduces the software framework used for this purpose, which has the two features considered necessary to closely replicate a practical experiment: i) the ability to mimic breadboard circuit prototyping activities and ii) the ability to simulate the prototyped circuits. In order to enhance students' motivation for the educational activities, the assignments proposed in our course have focused on robotics applications for several years. This was conveniently accounted for by combining simulation of electronic circuits with robotics simulation. In this way, we can be reproduce the embodiment of electronic circuits and the interaction with an external environment that takes place in a real experiment. The paper describes the proposed software framework, gives examples of its use, and reports on students' results for the first distance learning semester using the framework.
- Design, control, and testing of a multifunctional soft robotic GripperPublication . Correia, A.; Charters De Azevedo, Tiago; Leite, Afonso; Campos, Francisco M.; Monge, Nuno; Rocha, André; Mendes, Mário J. G. C.This paper proposes a multifunctional soft robotic gripper for a Dobot robot to handle sensitive products. The gripper is based on pneumatic network (PneuNet) bending actuators. In this study, two different models of PneuNet actuators have been studied, designed, simulated, experimentally tested, and validated using two different techniques (3D printing and molding) and three different materials: FilaFlex 60A (3D-printed), Elastosil M4601, and Dragonskin Fast 10 silicones (with molds). A new soft gripper design for the Dobot robot is presented, and a new design/production approach with molds is proposed to obtain the gripper’s PneuNet multifunctional actuators. It also describes a new control approach that is used to control the PneuNet actuators and gripper function, using compressed air generated by a small compressor/air pump, a pressure sensor, a mini valve, etc., and executing on a low-cost controller board—Arduino UNO. This paper presents the main simulation and experimental results of this research study.
- Supervision System 4.0 for a Road Tanker Washing Robot ManipulatorPublication . Vicente, L.; Carreira, Fernando; Campos, Francisco M.; Gonçalves Cavaco Mendes, Mário José; Calado, João Manuel Ferreira; Carvalho, GamboaThe washing of road tankers is currently still a manual process that requires an operator to place the washing head into the tanks. To increase productivity and operator safety, it is essential to implement automated systems with Fault Detection and Isolation (FDI) capabilities. On the other hand, the industry 4.0 paradigm promotes the use of collaborative systems that integrate with the other organization’s processes. Realizing this new vision requires Supervision, Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems with FDI modules that integrate with collaborative systems and promote the digitalization of companies. This paper proposes a SCADA system for a new road tanker washing robot, aimed at integrating all systems and communication networks of the organization and future FDI modules. To this end, this paper proposes a communication architecture based on open protocols and a common database to connect SCADA to the lower and higher levels of automation. Furthermore, this paper describes the various aspects of SCADA system development, from synoptic design to validation. To support the development of the SCADA system, a Digital Twin (DT) of the road tanker washing robot was used, allowing to test and validate its functionality through this virtual prototype. The results show that the proposed SCADA system and underlying information architecture are suitable for supervision of a robotized wash operation and that the use of a Digital Twin facilitates SCADA system design and validation.