A capstone design project for engineering technology students

摘要

This paper describes one of the capstone engineering design projects implemented by Penn State Altoona BSEMET (baccalaureate degree in electro-mechanical engineering technology) students during their senior year. This project is titled "Design and Implementation of a Vending Machine". At Penn State Altoona, the vending machine is designed and built by individual students in one semester. The paper begins with a description of the BSEMET program. Next, the paper describes the BSEMET capstone project design course (EMET 440). Finally, the paper provides a description of one of the EMET 440 capstone design projects recently completed by students. The project consists of design and implementation of a vending machine using a PLC. The paper presents the design specifications of this vending machine and provides details regarding its design and implementation. Recommendations for design improvement are presented.