ConveyorPCB

Conveyor Project

This project is a compact conveyor system featuring a custom-designed controller PCB and 3D-printable mechanical components. I created it to gain hands-on experience with PCB design, electronics integration, mechanical design, rapid prototyping, and design-for-manufacturing.

Project status

Status: Prototype

Repository contents

conveyor-project/
├── pcb-files/                 KiCad design and fabrication files
│   ├── NewConveyorPCB.kicad_pro
│   ├── NewConveyorPCB.kicad_sch
│   ├── NewConveyorPCB.kicad_pcb
│   └── fab-files/gerbers.zip
├── stl-files/                 3D-printable mechanical parts
│   ├── conveyor-base-parts/
│   │   ├── BearingSlot.stl
│   │   ├── ConveyorBase.stl
│   │   └── MotorBase.stl
│   ├── MotorWheel.stl
│   ├── Sprocket.stl
│   ├── SprocketPin.stl
│   └── TreadLink.stl
├── code/                      Arduino code to control conveyor
└── README.md

Requirements

• KiCad to view or edit the PCB design
• A slicer and 3D printer for the STL parts
• Electronic components listed in the PCB bill of materials
• Motor, fasteners, wiring, and power supply

Bill of materials

Fabrication

1. Use any PCB fabrication company. JLCPCB is cheap and easy to use.

PCB

1. Open pcb-files/NewConveyorPCB.kicad_pro in KiCad to review or modify the design.
2. Use pcb-files/fab-files/gerbers.zip when ordering the PCB.
3. Confirm the board dimensions, layer stack, drill files, and design rules with the manufacturer before ordering.

3D-printed parts

The printable models are in stl-files/.

Assembly

1. Print and inspect all mechanical parts.
2. Solder components and test PCB.
3. Install the motor and motor wheel in the conveyor base.
4. Assemble the sprockets and tread links.
5. Connect the electronics and verify polarity before applying power.
6. Upload conveyor controller program to the Arduino Nano.
7. Test at low speed and adjust alignment and tension as needed.