01 of 10Capstone Project

VENDR

Automated Key Vending Machine

Project lead on a 5-person cross-functional team building an automated key vending machine for UCI Facilities. The system retrieves and dispenses keys with 99% reliability through a custom 5x3 ft, 3-axis gantry.

Role
Project Lead
Year
Sep 2025 to Present
Category
Capstone Project
Tools
SolidWorksASME Y14.53D PrintingGanttBOM
GalleryClick any image to expand
VENDR overall machine01 of 19
VENDR gantry assembly02 of 19
VENDR detail view03 of 19
VENDR mechanism close-up04 of 19
VENDR mechanism detail05 of 19
VENDR component view06 of 19
VENDR motor mounts07 of 19
VENDR servo manipulator08 of 19
VENDR key storage blocks09 of 19
VENDR final assembly10 of 19
VENDR cabinet exterior CAD11 of 19
VENDR storage bin CAD12 of 19
VENDR interior gantry CAD13 of 19
VENDR front-view CAD drawing14 of 19
VENDR mechanism close-up, servo and rails15 of 19
VENDR gantry mechanism near key storage wall16 of 19
VENDR leadscrew and motor mount detail17 of 19
VENDR manipulator retrieving a key block18 of 19
VENDR manipulator engaging a key block19 of 19
01

Overview

Led a 5-person cross-functional team to design and build an automated key vending machine for UCI Facilities. The machine retrieves and dispenses keys with 99% success through a custom 5x3 ft, 3-axis gantry and a SolidWorks assembly of more than 170 components.

02

What I owned

  • Designed the full SolidWorks assembly: 170+ components, BOM, and Gantt chart for the build.
  • Produced engineering drawings to ASME Y14.5 for every mechanical component on the machine.
  • Designed and 3D-printed custom adapters, motor mounts, a servo manipulator, and key storage blocks.
  • Coordinated cross-functional work between mechanical, electrical, and software subteams.
03

Outcome

The 5x3 ft, 3-axis gantry retrieves and dispenses keys at a 99% success rate. The full assembly is documented end-to-end so the next iteration can pick up exactly where this build left off.

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