Automated Mandrel Loader

Project Summary

Teleflex manufactures braided catheters using a horizontal braiding machine. This can be done by feeding a mandrel, which acts as a core to braid over, into a port at the rear of the machine. The mandrel is then fed into the machine and stainless steel wire is braided over the mandrel. Feeding a mandrel and the processes of cutting and collecting mandrels after braiding is currently done manually by a machine operator, which removes them from their regular tasks. Sensors, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and a Human Machine Interface (HMI) will control motors and pneumatics that proceed mandrels through the machine, automating the process.

Design Goal

Design, prototype, and integrate sections of an automated system that loads, separates, and unloads mandrels without the need for an operator.

Design Constraints

• Must work with the horizontal braiding machines at Teleflex facilities
• Must hold a minimum of 10 mandrels
• Adjustable design for varied sizes of mandrels
• Emergency stop (E-stop)included and connected to the Braiding machine E-stop
• 10 mandrels can be run in succession without operator intervention