This is an in-progress personal project to design and build a card shuffler with sorting and rigging capability. I'm an avid card player and embarked on this project to explore the software side of engineering (while still doing plenty of mechanical design). With the design phase largely complete, the project is currently in the testing and validation stage using additively manufactured prototype components.
Designed in SolidWorks CAD with additive manufacturability and cost-effectiveness in mind, I'm implementing lessons learned from past projects like my pen plotter where cable management and belt tensioning proved challenging. The electronics assembly is now integrated into the CAD design from the start for seamless cable management, while a screw-driven belt tensioner in the idler pulley mount means hassle-free and precise belt tensioning.
The design process has been highly iterative, facilitated by additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping. Now on version 4, it's come a long way with improved body rigidity and mechanism reliability. The newly modular design also means easy prototyping and excellent repairability.
I'm excited to see where this project takes me as I wrap up prototyping and begin final assembly and coding!
