Design/Build Microcomputer to Control Desktop Lathe
May 2012
Goal: Design and build a circuit containing a microcomputer capable of powering and controlling a manual desktop lathe, turning the manual lathe into an automatic lathe. The lathe’s mechanical design and construction details are on this page.
The project was proposed and completed as my final project for the Microcomputer Project Lab Class (6.115, now called 6.2060) at MIT. The class is a semester-long laboratory class that introduces the analysis and design of embedded systems. It is taught by Professor Steve Leeb in the department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT.
Project Features:
Enabled on/off control and speed control of chuck via integrating (and programming) microcontroller into the circuit during construction.
Enabled powered control of lathe’s bed in the x- and y-axis, previously controlled by the user turning the handle driving lead screw.
Built the circuit to provide sufficient power to motors by integrating power amplifier ICs capable of supplying sufficient power to all three motors without burning out.
Microcontroller programmed in assembly language.
My responsibility was to design/build/test the circuit:
Draw a schematic for the proposed project. Propose design to teaching staff before building a circuit.
Select components required to successfully build circuit - power amp ICs, extraneous components (capacitors, resistors, etc)
Build a circuit on a breadboard by assembling components
Program micro-controller (Assembly Language)
Integrate motors with a manual lathe, and then connect motors to the circuit.
Demonstrate function of (now) automatic lathe using micro-controller controlled circuit.