Rubik's cube solving machine

Profile

• What was needed: Spindle lifting tables for clamping the cube
• Requirements: High reliability for use at trade fairs
• Industry: Mechanical engineering
• Success for the customer: The magic cube can be
  ideally solved at a speed of 15 moves per second. The underlying
  solution algorithm requires between 10 and 35 moves. In the best case scenario, the Rubik's Cube can therefore
  be solved in less than one second and thus compete with professional solutions.

Are you still looking for the right linear module? With the online configurator for drive technology, you can enter your requirements and receive linear drives with spindle, toothed belt or rack and pinion drive, which you can configure according to your needs.

Problem
The main problems of the existing project were the recording of the cube status via image processing, the control of stepper motors to rotate the cube sides and the time-consuming manual clamping of the cube. The shortcomings were largely due to the limited budget that the FH was able to provide for each project. After analysing the existing machine in detail and the experience gained, the team decided to completely redesign the project. The components required for a high-quality realisation had to be provided by sponsors due to the budget.

After an intensive conceptualisation and design phase, the team was able to secure igus® GmbH as a sponsor for linear guide.

Solution
After a three-month implementation phase, the team was able to complete the project on schedule while working on their bachelor theses.
drylin® spindle lifting tables now ensure lubrication-free and smooth clamping of the cube from four sides.

On the one hand, the machine fulfils the requirements of high reliability for use at trade fairs, but at the same time also has a high-quality and robust industrial design. Ideally, the Rubik's Cube can be solved at a speed of 15 moves per second. The underlying solution algorithm requires between 10 and 35 moves. In the best case scenario, the Rubik's cube can therefore be solved in less than a second and thus compete with professional solutions.