WEB Enabled Electronic Component Vending Machine (Electromagnetic Module)

Student: Guy William Debney

Supervisor: Richard Cocks

Category: Electrical Engineering Thesis Project

This thesis is part of a group project by the University of Queensland’s Just Off Campus Group to design and build NetVend, a web-enabled vending machine. NetVend began in 1999 and involved developing server software to allow interaction via the Internet. Users of the NetVending system order from a vending machine over the Internet using a graphics user interface. NetVend also includes developing a vending machine for small components, contained in vials, which users the server software.

The purpose of this thesis was to develop a device to lift and hold vials while they are transported to the front of the vending machine or restocked. A series of electromagnets are placed on a gantry that moves in horizontal and vertical directions with stepper motors. This thesis focused on design and implementation of the electromagnet module. In 1999 an electromagnet module was built, however it did not have sufficient pulling or holding force. Several prototypes were constructed and compared with the previous design. The design chosen had significantly more force at lower power dissipation. Final design included developing power and switching hardware.

The design chosen for this thesis is consistent with the objectives of the NetVend group. Commercial considerations, such as cost and availability of materials were included. Each electromagnet is modular and can be replaced easily. Maintenance requirements have been kept to a minimum and safety issues such as heat dissipation were considered

Poster Presentation (PDF)

Thesis Document (PDF)