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Rubik's cube solving machine

igus® Parts enable fast detection for a Rubik's Cube solving machine
In the 7th semester of the Mechatronics/Automation degree programme at the Gütersloh campus of Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences, various mechatronic projects were implemented as part of the "Mechatronic Systems" module under the cable of Prof. Dr.-Ing. The team consisting of Tom Töws, Matthias Risse, Jan Ewerszumrode and Laurids Wetzel took on the task of improving and optimising the existing project of a magic cube solving machine, which was developed by the previous year, to such an extent that the machine can be used reliably at trade fairs and information days.

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.
Four men stand in an office next to an automated test setup with a monitor.

The team consisting of Tom Töws, Matthias Risse, Jan Ewerszumrode and Laurids Wetzel

Product used

drylin® SHT-12 linear module

drylin SHT12 plain bearing with three guide rods and a spindle.
To the drylin® SHT-12 linear module

Configure lead screw axis

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.

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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® SE & Co. KG 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.

Impressions

Transparent machine with a control panel on a table for a cube-solving system.

The finished Rubik's cube machine

Rubik’s Cube machine with glass enclosure and robot arms solves a Rubik’s Cube.

The finished Rubik's cube machine from the front

Application video

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Online shop

Order finished linear modules in common standard sizes directly online.

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Haven't found the right product yet? Configure your own linear unit.

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Download white paper

Spindle drive or toothed belt? Find the right linear module for you.

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Contact us

Contact details

Seán Ryan
Seán Ryan086 0329555Submit form

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