House House
Architecture

Team 521: Rockwell Automation Manufacturing for STEM Engagement

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Team 521

Carlos

Carlos Aceituno

Mechanical Engineer 1

Tristian

Tristian Berlardo

Electrical Engineer 1

Leah

Leah Bergman

Electrical Engineer 2

Xavier

Xavier Hammond

Mechanical Engineer 2

Industry Sponsors

Tajaey Young
House

Digital Services Sales Manager

Shayla George
House

Software & Control Technology Consultant

Cliff Rice
House

Automotive, Electric Vechicle, and Battery Industry Consultant

James Fadool
House

Global OEM Technical Consultant

Faculty Sponsors

Camilo Ordóñez, Ph.D.
House

Teaching Faculty I

Shayne McConomy, Ph.D.
House

Teaching Faculty II

Abstract

As technology advances, engaging students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) becomes increasingly important. With the growth of manufacturing in the U.S., students must understand automation and its role in real-world problem-solving. Our team designed an interactive machine to help K–12 students learn about automation in a fun and accessible way—making engineering easy to understand and exciting to explore.

We enhanced a pin button making machine by automating three main steps: loading materials, assembling the button, and delivering the finished product. Students begin by creating their own designs and loading the materials. With the press of a button, the machine assembles and secures the components, demonstrating how automation simplifies and speeds up work.

To boost interactivity, we added an arcade-style magnetic claw that students use to retrieve their finished button. This game-like feature mimics real-world robotics and adds a layer of fun that keeps students engaged.

This project goes beyond making buttons. It connects classroom lessons to real-world applications, helping students understand automation and its impact on everyday life. By engaging with the machine, students build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop curiosity about STEM careers. We hope this project inspires future innovators and shows students how they can shape the world through engineering and technology.

Deliverables

Future Work

Timeline (Hover Only)
Mechanical Improvements
Redesign the frame and upgrade the linear actuator.
Safety Improvements
Implement further features to make the device more safe.
Industrial Implementation
Upgrade the Arduino hardware to more industrial grade hardware.
HMI Integration
Fully implement the Human Machine Interface to our device.