Manual Control Systems: Pneumatics

“A Slice of Mechanical Engineering”

Mr. J. Butler ● Department of Technology & Engineering ● John Jay High School ● Wappingers Central School District

Pneumatic Control Systems & EDD

DDP and POE EDD: Animatronics

are brought to life Gaining

experience in the area of manual arts

Engineering schools and labs

Where are Pneumatic Systems Used?

Animatronics/Robotics

Transportation HVAC (Heating

Ventilation Air Conditioning)

Amusement Rides Industrial

Equipment

Part I: Basic Pneumatic Parts & Equipment

Piston Air Compressor Tubing Regulator Valve Solenoid Switch Power Supply

Piston

Known as Air Cylinder Stores potential energy (compressed air) Converts into kinetic energy as air expands to

reach atmospheric pressure Engineers prefer pneumatics since it’s cheaper,

quieter, cleaner, and takes less space.

Air Compressor

Using pistons and valves stores compressed air

Oil and oil-less models

Tubing•Available in Difference sizes, and lengths•Used to transport compressed air from the Compressor•1/4” and 3/8” Nylon Tubing is idea for EDD

Regulator Valve

•Controls the pressure of air•Measured in PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) – unit of pressure•30-60 PSI for EDD•Can be controlled from compressor or can be added to pneumatic air lines

Solenoid

•Electromechanical Switch•Control air flow•Open or Closed•Uses coil and slug to control air

Switch•Electrical device •Breaks or completes electrical circuit•Powers the Pneumatic Solenoid Valve•Push Button

Power Supply•Powers the Switch to Solenoid Valve•Controls air flow•Follow Safety Guidelines

Observations

What makes the grave jumper work? Moving Parts Sounds Range of Motion Speed Pressure

Questions and Further Knowledge

Mechanical Supply Companies Granger DigiKey

Mechanical or Electrical Engineer

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