Design and simulation of a pneumatic paper cup making machine

Abstract

The project reported in this document, “Design and Simulation of a Pneumatic Paper cup making machine” focuses on the development of a machine and solution to the high costs encountered with the existant technology of making paper ups, a growing trend in the food and drinks business in the country. Paper cups are an alternative to the plastic and porcelain cups used to hold beverages in any state, both hot and cold. These are made out of paper and are disposable. The Pneumatic paper cup making machine utilizes the pneumatic system which is comprised by a reciprocating compressor, piping system and a double acting cylinder actuator as well as a punch and die system and a heating element to retain the paper cup shape made. Upon carrying out simulations and various stress analyses of the machine using solid edge software, the generated design of the machine was found to be suitable as each component was tested individually and showed capability to handle the design stresses. The recommendations for this machine to improve its efficiency and productivity include having more than one punch and die designed on the machine as well as automated paper blank placement and paper cup ejection system.