Introduction

In the previous Unit, you learned how conveyors are used within workcells to efficiently transport objects. You also coded the conveyors to quickly move a Disk through the CTE Workcell, using the Object Sensor to prevent the Disk from falling off. In this Unit, you will expand on that knowledge by exploring how pneumatics is used to move machinery and objects within a workcell. You will learn about the various components of pneumatic systems and the advantages they provide in the industrial automation industry.
By the end of this Unit, you will understand how air flows through pneumatic systems to move machinery, and you will successfully build a pneumatic circuit using the CTE Workcell Kit.
Watch the video below for an overview about how pneumatics work.
Vocabulary
In this Unit, you will learn about how pneumatic systems function and their critical role in powering machinery within industrial automation. Record this vocabulary in your engineering notebook. Use this list as a reference as you work through the Unit and encounter words you may not be familiar with.
- Actuator
- A component of a pneumatic system that transforms the energy of compressed air into mechanical motion.
- Air Compressor
- A component that creates potential energy in a pneumatic system by compressing, or mechanically reducing the volume of air. The compressor in the CTE Workcell is called the Air Pump.
- Air Tank
-
A component that stores compressed air until needed, helping to maintain a constant pressure in the pneumatic system.
- Cylinder
- A type of linear actuator that uses air pressure to extend or retract, creating a linear, push or pull motion.
- Linear Movement
- Straight-line motion along one axis.
- Stroke
- The distance that a cylinder can extend or retract during its operation.
- Pneumatics
- A branch of engineering that uses compressed air or other gasses to create mechanical motion used to power machinery and transport objects.
- Pneumatic Circuit
- A set of pneumatic components that work together to perform a single actuation, or movement.
- Pneumatic System
- A system that captures air, transports air through a circuit, and uses the generated energy from compressed air to complete tasks.
- Pressurized
- Air compressed to a higher pressure, storing energy that can be used to move objects and machinery.
- Rotational Movement
- Circular motion around a central axis.
- Solenoid
- A component that functions as a switch or valve, directing airflow through a pneumatic system to perform specific actions.
- Stroke
- The distance that a cylinder can extend or retract during its operation.
- Tubing
- Flexible pipes that transport compressed air from the air compressor to the various components of a pneumatic system.
Quantity | Materials Needed |
---|---|
1 per group |
CET Workcell Kit |
1 per group |
Computer |
1 per student |
Engineering Notebook |
Select Next > to move to Lesson 1.