School of Science and Engineering

Capstone Report

CONCEPTION OF A MANUAL BRICK MACHINE

By: Badr-Eddine EL ABBASSI

Supervised by: Dr. Asmae Khaldoune

October 26th, 2018

© SCHOOL OF SCIENCE & ENGINEERING – AL AKHAWAYN UNIVERSITY

CONCEPTION OF A MANUAL BRICK MACHINE

Final Capstone Report – Badr-eddine El Abbassi

Supervised By

Dr. Asmae Khaldoune

 Acknowledgment

First of all, I would like to express my deepest most sincere gratitude to Dr. Asmae

Khaldoune for being available and helping all the way through my capstone. Her instructions as a

supervisor were very helpful and instructive.

I would also like to thank the capstone coordinator DR. Yassine Salih ALJ for being very

patient and helpful while answering all the questions related to my capstone issues. His directives

were simple, and easy to follow. A special thank is also due to my father for giving me all of the

moral support and help I needed.

Last but not least, I want to show my deep appreciation to Al Akhawayn University in

Ifrane and the School of Science and Engineering for offerin all the necessary tools and ressources

to deal with any given project.

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Table of Contents

Acknowledgment ............................................................................................................................... iii

Table of Figures ................................................................................................................................. vii

List of Tables .................................................................................................................................... viii

Abstract .............................................................................................................................................. ix

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 1

Methodology ...................................................................................................................................... 2

Litterature Review .............................................................................................................................. 3

Bricks ........................................................................................................................................................... 3

History ..................................................................................................................................................... 3

The Soil .................................................................................................................................................... 3

Analysis Of The Soils Used For The Manufacture Of Bricks ...................................................................... 5

The "Ideal" Soil ........................................................................................................................................ 5

The Soil’s Analysis ................................................................................................................................... 5

Realization Of The Mixture ...................................................................................................................... 7

Need To Compact The Stabilized Soil ...................................................................................................... 8

How To Compact The Concrete ............................................................................................................... 8

Optimal Dimensions Of Bricks ................................................................................................................ 8

Compactness Versus Wear Resistance ..................................................................................................... 9

BRICKS Presses ........................................................................................................................................... 9

Selected Presses ..................................................................................................................................... 10

Characteristics Of Presses ..................................................................................................................... 14

iv
Problem’s Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 16

Data ............................................................................................................................................................ 16

Objectives ................................................................................................................................................... 16

Primary Objectives ................................................................................................................................ 16

Secondary Objectives ............................................................................................................................. 16

Restrictions ................................................................................................................................................. 16

Evaluation Criteria ..................................................................................................................................... 17

Generation Of Solutions ................................................................................................................... 18

Solution 1 ................................................................................................................................................... 18

Solution 2 ................................................................................................................................................... 20

Solution 3 ................................................................................................................................................... 21

Solution 4 ................................................................................................................................................... 22

Solution 5 ................................................................................................................................................... 23

Practicability Study ........................................................................................................................... 25

Solution 1 ................................................................................................................................................... 25

Solution 2 ................................................................................................................................................... 25

Solution 3 ................................................................................................................................................... 25

Solution 4 ................................................................................................................................................... 26

Solution 5 ................................................................................................................................................... 26

Choice Of The Final Solution .................................................................................................................... 26

Dimensionning Of The Press ............................................................................................................ 28

Calculation Of Sliding Crank System ........................................................................................................ 28

Calculation Of The Forces ......................................................................................................................... 29

v
Dimensioning Of The Interior Mould ........................................................................................................ 31

Plate A And B ......................................................................................................................................... 31

Plate C ................................................................................................................................................... 33

Dimensioning Of The Exterior Mould ....................................................................................................... 35

Plates E And F ....................................................................................................................................... 35

H And G Plates And Bottom Plates Of The Exterior Mold .................................................................... 37

Dimensioning Of The Compression System .............................................................................................. 38

Calculation Of The Thickness Of The Compression Cylinder ............................................................... 38

Calculation Of The Thickness Of The Compression Plate ..................................................................... 39

Dimensioning Of The Cylinder’s Axis Of Compression ........................................................................ 40

Dimensioning Of The Compression’s Lever .......................................................................................... 41

Pivot’s Calculation ................................................................................................................................ 43

Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................... 45

Recommandations ............................................................................................................................ 46

References ........................................................................................................................................ 47

Appendix ........................................................................................................................................... 48

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 Table of Figures

Figure 1 Picture showing bricks ...................................................................................................... 3

Figure 2 The "ELISON BLOCKMASTER" ......................................................................................... 10

Figure 3 THE "CINVA-RAM" .......................................................................................................... 12

Figure 4 The "TEK BLOCK" ............................................................................................................ 12

Figure 5 The "GEO 50" .................................................................................................................. 13

Figure 6 The "TERSTARAM" .......................................................................................................... 14

Figure 7 Solution 1 Solid Work's design ....................................................................................... 19

Figure 8 Solution 2 Solid Work's design ....................................................................................... 20

Figure 9 Solution 3 Solid Work's design ....................................................................................... 21

Figure 10 Solution 4 Solid Work's design ..................................................................................... 23

Figure 11 Solution 5 Solid Work's design ..................................................................................... 24

Figure 12 Sliding Crank System at the Begining and the End of Compression ............................. 28

Figure 13 force Acting on the Compression Plate ........................................................................ 29

Figure 14 Forces Acting on the Lever ........................................................................................... 29

Figure 15 Dimensions of the Interior Mold .................................................................................. 31

Figure 16 Shear Force and Bending Moments' diagrams ............................................................. 32

Figure 17 Dimensions of Plate C ................................................................................................... 33

Figure 18 Dimensions of The Exterior Mold ................................................................................. 35

Figure 19 Reference Axises .......................................................................................................... 35

Figure 20 Force Acting on the Compression Cylinder .................................................................. 38

Figure 21 shear Force and Bending Moment's Diagrams ............................................................. 39

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 List of Tables

Table 1 Evaluation Criteria Table .................................................................................................. 17

Table 2 Decision Matrix Table ...................................................................................................... 27

Table 3 Coeffiecient Table ............................................................................................................ 36

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 Abstract

The purpose of this project is to provide the logistical support for the extension of concrete

to the region of Zaouiat Sidi Abdslam. One of the obstacles to this approach is the lack of a low-

cost, locally produced manual press, with performances as good as those known on the

international market. Thus the studied points are:

The analysis of the needs necessary to the design of such a machine.

- The proposal of a new press from a range of solutions.

- Partial sizing of the proposed press.

A demonstrative prototype has been analyzed to better understand certain operating

problems and machining constraints.

Finally, recommendations are made for the second phase of the project which will focus

on the realization of our future press.

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 Introduction

In the ceramics industry, there is a large number of presses used for the shaping of bricks.

Several are usable for stabilized soil. While others have undergone transformations and some have

even been specially designed for the manufacture of compressed soil blocks. There are still some

that have a particular potential, but that must be adapted.

These presses are generally very simple , they require relatively low investments compared

to other types of presses such as the mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic. Some of these machines,

already exist on the market (GEO 50, UNATA) and work efficiently. However, the fact remains

that in Morocco, they are relatively expensive as their transportation and customs fees make it

nearly impossible to get such machines. This is one of the main reasons that led to the need to

design a manual press that would be locally produced by local industries, at a lower cost and as

reliable as the others. So, with the supervision of Dr. Asmae Khaldoune, a project of designing a

prototype that could be made by any black-smith in the country, took place. This press will be a

typical solution to help us in our project of helping to build a thermal efficient house in the region

of GUIGOU.

The first phase of the project will be an analysis of the materials used in the process. We

will also go through a needs analysis so that we will design our desired press.

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 Methodology

The first task that needed to be done in this project was to check if the project in itself was

doable. I first checked some already existing presses in the market. Knowing that those machines

were very expensive, I tried to make a design for a manual press.

The second task toward making the design, was to analyze existing designs. These designs

were working perfectly. However, each design had its own strong and weak points. My mission

was to detect the best suited one that I will base all my research on. In order to do that, I had to

analyze some of the solution designs that I came up with. Some of them were newly designed

while the others were already existing on the market.

After choosing the design that will suit us, I had to do a full force analysis. This full analysis

will help me dimension this machine so that it will be both efficient and effective. This machine

will be easy to make, easy to maintain and especially easy to use.

2
 Litterature Review

Bricks

Figure 1 Picture Showing Bricks

History

Ever since man has learned to build, the earth has always been one of the main building materials

used. It is only since the appearance of cement that soil techniques have been abandoned in urban

areas and industrialized countries.

Currently, another third of the world's population lives in earthen dwellings.

The Soil

The soil is a very widespread natural resource. It comes from the degradation of the source rock,

following climatic and chemical erosion phenomena. all soils have very different characteristics

depending on their provenance.

The use of soil in construction has many advantages:

3
 • it is often locally available in quantity.it does not require energy (except terracotta, which

requires a lot of energy and often leads to deforestation);

• it is a healthy and ecological material (heat inertia and hygrometric regulation);

• it is a recyclable material.

Traditional earth building techniques are numerous. the most common are:

• mud (packing of racks).

• rammed earth (clay in shuttering forms).

• adobe (molded raw earth dried in the sun).

• the tether (shaped earth).

• straw earth (lighter and more insulating material).

• Compressed earth (compressed earth brick is an approach to the modernization and

standardization of the use of earth material in construction).

There are old buildings that contain other elements in addition to the earth such as wood, stone or

plants. The different natural elements are those that people find in their immediate environment.

4
Analysis Of The Soils Used For The Manufacture Of Bricks

Each type of soil has adapted construction techniques.

The "Ideal" Soil

The ideal soil does not exist. If using a nearby soil. In most cases it can be used as is or by amending

it (with gravel, sand, binders ...). For bricks, it is an earthen concrete composed of gravel, sand,

silt and clay (it is necessary to remove the top layer of the soil and the organic elements).(7)

We are looking for a soil containing about (3)

Ø 1/3 of gravel

Ø 1/3 of sand

Ø 1/3 of fine elements (silt + clay)

Gravel, sand and silt are structural elements and clays act as glue. For bricks, we try to have about

15 to 25% of the total clays. This percentage varies according to the granulomere of the inert

elements in the analyzed soil: the finer the elements, the more surface to be coated, the more clay

will be needed (within a certain limit beyond which there would be too much withdrawal). It also

varies according to the quality of the clays (clays are more or less active, depending on their

bonding surface: one gram of clay covers, depending on clays, from 10 to 80 m2).

The Soil’s Analysis

It is useful to carry out qualitative analyzes of the soil that one wishes to use for construction. To

make these analyzes, it is necessary to carry out (to have a sufficiently representative sample)

several samples, in several places of the planned place of extraction.

These field analyzes provide indications for performing manufacturing tests. But it is only in view

of the quality of the bricks and other manufactured elements that one will be able to decide on the

choice of a soil.

5
The soil used for bricks must have certain characteristics among which(7)

Ø COHESION: the presence of good quality clays in sufficient quantity, which will bind all

the elements together

Ø PLASTICITY: ability to deform the material without weakening

Ø COMPRESSIBILITY: ability to densify during compaction

Ø GRANULOMETRY: good representation of all fractions of elements, so that they organize

themselves without leaving gaps

Sieving Analysis

Sieve analysis can be done in two ways: dry or underwater. We realize that if we do the sieving

with dry earth and if we do the sieving with the same soil but under water, we obtain sometimes

totally opposite results. This is due to the presence of clays nodules that behave dry as gravel and,

therefore, remain with the gravel sieving.

On the other hand, under water, these clays disperse and pass through all the sieves. We must

therefore draw the right conclusions from the tests: how will the clays behave in the field contained

in the earth that we will use? What is the percentage of clays that will actually behave as active

elements? Hence the need, despite the tests carried out, to test the quality of the bricks

manufactured before starting construction.(5)

Analysis By Settling

We first separate the fine sands from silts and clays.

For this, pour the rest of the sieve 0.2 mm (T 0.2) in a container filled with water. After stirring

the mixture, allow to stand for one minute. Quickly, the fine sands fall to the bottom of the

container. The liquid containing the silt-clay mixture is recovered in suspension in a container. As

6
soon as they are dried, we weigh the fine sands recovered. To recover silts and clays, the slime-

clay mixture must be allowed to stand in suspension long enough. The decantation water must be

gently removed, taking care to remove only water that does not contain clays (the clays remain in

suspension for a very long time).

To accelerate the removal of water, it is possible to use a plasterboard on which the silt-clay

mixture is deposited. The paste obtained is recovered with a spatula.

Compared to the starting sample P = 100%, we find the remaining weight of the clay-silt complex

by successively deducting the weighing of the different sieves and the weighing obtained by

settling of the fine sands.

Realization Of The Mixture

The volume of mixture to be prepared should not exceed one to two wheelbarrows of soil at a time,

so that the moisture of the mixture does not have time to change. For information :

- a wheelbarrow = 60 L

- a bucket of mason = 10 L

In the same way, it is important, on a construction site, to reduce the movements related to the

manufacture of bricks.

The mixing phase is very important: you have to make a very homogeneous mixture. l is dry in

three stages: sieving the soil, adding sand (if necessary), mixing, adding cement (if making

stabilized bricks), mixing (moving the pile at least three times), then adding the water needed by

checking with the test described above. Knowing this, one can calculate the displacements so that

the area of the last mixture is at the foot of the press.(3)

7
Need To Compact The Stabilized Soil

Compaction is one of the key operations for obtaining good resistances. Compacting the soil, is to

make contained particles have the maximum contact points. It will also make sur that there is only

minimized voids between them, so that all the particles will be nested within each other.

If a compaction fault is harmful, it should also be known that the search for maximum compaction,

using for example two operators is not economical and may result in the rupture or deformation of

certain organs of the press.(2)

For good manufacturing consistency, the grit-cement mixture placed in the mold, should

preferably be weighed with an accuracy of plus or minus 50g.(2)

How To Compact The Concrete

To compact the concrete, one can:

• Exercise shock on the material repeated by tamping.

• Use mechanical, hydraulic or manual presses.

Optimal Dimensions Of Bricks

The dimensions of the blocks depend first of all on the thickness of the wall that one wants to

obtain, 15 cm represent an optimum. Below this thickness, there is a risk of being too weak and

thus not stable in construction.

A second requirement is to have manageable blocks. 15x20x40 represent maximum dimensions

and can weigh from 26 to 27 kilos. Such blocks can be transported without boards as soon as they

are made.(2)

8
 Compactness Versus Wear Resistance

The resistance is higher on the lower face of the concrete than on its upper face. This is explained

by the fact that with the CINVA-RAM, the compaction is obtained by an upward vertical

movement of the lower plate, the upper plate remains fixed. The compaction is better at the lower

part of the concrete. It has also been found that good compaction is a factor in the durability of

concrete, since it is more resistant to wear.(1)

BRICKS Presses

In the ceramics industry, there are a large number of presses for the shaping of bricks. Many are

used for stabilized earth. Others have undergone transformations and some have been specially

designed for the manufacture of compressed soil blocks. There are still some that have a particular

potential, but that must be adapted.

These presses are generally very simple and require relatively low investments compared to other

types of presses (mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic). However, the fact remains that in

Morocco, they are relatively expensive. And this is one of the main reasons that led to wanting to

design a manual press that would be locally produced by local industries, at a lower cost and as

reliable as the others.(1)

These presses are generally simple, easy to maneuver, easily modifiable compared to other types

of presses (mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic). They are relatively expensive. And this is one

of the main reasons that led to the design of a hand press that would be locally produced by local

industries, at a lower cost and as reliable as the others.(1)

9
Selected Presses

There are some particularly interesting presses that exist. their operating way is also delicate and

require a lot of notions. There also some other presses that have been newly designed. Technical

characteristics will be given to show the performances and especially the limits of these presses.

The "ELISON BLOCKMASTER"

It is a manual press made in India. There are four models giving different bricks or blocks. Thus

to build a building, it will require at least two models. The walls and cupolas require bricks of

different sizes. Hence a weak point that deserves to be improved. For example, by a system of

interchangeable molds.

Figure 2 The "ELISON BLOCKMASTER"

The “CINVA-RAM”

This manual press was developed in Bogota, Colombia, in 1952 by the Inter-America Housing and

Planning Center (4), is well known and widely used, and gives birth to models based on the same

10
principle. The results have made it possible to define a certain number of criteria for the choice of

manual presses. CINVA-RAM is one of the most used presses in the world, but it has some weak

points that we will try to show by describing the essential elements that constitute it.(7)

The box

It is a rectangular metal mold formed of four sheets of which two of 15 mm thick and two of 8 mm

thick, mounted on four feet. It is the frame of any mechanism and is bolted to a base that ensures

stability.(7)

The Lid

Two different covers have been designed: the first is released from the mold and comes to rest

behind the machine on two supports, the second pivots around an axis located on the side of the

mold, it is this mode which has been commercialized (this press is no longer manufactured by its

manufacturer) (ref) and which has the disadvantage of scraping the soil initially introduced into

the mold (thus decreasing the strength of bricks) rather than tamping it.(7)

The lever

It is placed in two notches on the lid. It transmits its movement to the piston by two connecting

rods. In the vertical position, two hooks are locked on a cross member, which makes the lever-

connecting rod assembly integral.

The piston: it is a cylinder surmounted by a rectangular plate. It is guided by two adjustable angles

which constitute sources of wear having significant consequences on the quality of the bricks,

because this wear offsets the compression piston, and consequently a lack of homogeneity of the

bricks. And here we think that a piston guide with a cylinder would reduce wear.(7)

11

Figure 3 THE "CINVA-RAM"

The “TEK Block”

It is a hand press that was developed in Ghana by the Department of Habitat Research and

Planning. (Ref). It has the same operating principle as the CINVA-Ram except the automation at

the opening and closing of the lid. Thus, handling is easier and can speed up the pace of

production.(7)

Figure 4 The "TEK BLOCK"

12
The “GEO 50”

It is a manual press on soil which was designed and realized by the soil center in LAVALETTE in

France. It has a double-acting compression system.(7)

Figure 5 The "GEO 50"

The PALAFITTE

It is a manual press that was built in a single copy, seeking to combine the benefits of CINVA-

Ram and TEK BLOCK in 1974. Its main advantage and automation of the opening and closing of

the press.(7)

The TERSTARAM

It is a manual press, also known as "Land-Crete" and "Stadibloc". It has a number of improvements

that have made it the best hand press available on the market.

Thanks to its gradual improvement, the TERSTA-RAM press can produce bricks of various sizes.

Also its folding lid, allows to ensure a slight pre-compaction of the expanded material and therefore

13
a better quality of bricks (good resistance). The TERSTARAM has two main disadvantages which

are the height of price and the difficulty of handling (very robust).(7)

Figure 6 The "TERSTARAM"

Characteristics Of Presses

Type Of Press

We differentiate the presses according to the source of energy:

- Manual: in this case compaction is provided by one or more persons by means of a lever or pestle

system.

-Mechanical: the compaction is done by a system of lever or shelling which is mechanically

actuated by a gasoline engine, diesel or electric.

- Hydraulic: the energy of an engine is transmitted to the compaction plate by means of a hydraulic

system.

14
- Pneumatic: the energy of the motor is transmitted to a pestle via a pneumatic system.

Compression Mode

The compression can be done according to two modes:

-Static pressure, compaction is ensured by the relatively slow approximation of two surfaces

between which is the product to be compacted, which is retained laterally.

-Dynamic pressure, compaction is obtained by pounding the product in a mold. The pressure

exerted on the brick is difficult to control.

15
 Problem’s Analysis

Data

• The product to be reduced is bricks

• The reduction rate is 1.4

Objectives
Primary Objectives

• Simplicity of the press

• Ease of use

• Compact

• Ease of manufacture

Secondary Objectives

• Easy transportation

• Easy maintenance

• Accessibility of all mechanical parts

Restrictions

• Low manufacturing cost

• final pressure of the compression: 3 bars

• Dimensions of the mould (310mm x 150mm x 150mm)

• Materials for manufacturing existing on the market.

16
Evaluation Criteria

Table 1 Evaluation Criteria Table

Criteria Weighting (%)

Simplicity 20
Cost of manufacture 25
Ease of use 10
Easy demoulding 15
Ease to manufacture 15
Stability 10
maintenance 05

17
 Generation Of Solutions

It is at this stage that we propose several solutions while explaining their main characteristics. In

this phase of design, it is very important not to block the creative imagination. That is to say, in

other words, that we must list all the solutions that come to mind without any restriction. Existing

presses will also be used for similar applications or for different applications (e.g. manual press

for shaping stabilized clay bricks). It should be noted that it is from these different that the final

solution will come out.

Solution 1

For this press, compacting is ensured by a plate whose displacement is controlled by the rotation

of a large screw. The connection between the plate and the screw is via a bearing that can withstand

axial forces. The rotational movement is given to the screw by means of a crank placed at its upper

part, it is also possible thanks to the tapping done in the middle of the top cover of the mold. The

demolding is done from the bottom by the same process used during compression. The top and

bottom covers can swing around pivots and their closing is done by hooks.(6)

18

Figure 7 Solution 1 Solid Work's design

LEGEND:

1) crank

2) compression plate

3) blocking system

4) bearing

5) pivots

6) support

7) base

19
 Solution 2

It is a press whose compaction system consists of a crank-slide mechanism. At the end of the slider

we have a tray which in descending phase ensures the compression of the material.

The compression lever is fixed by a ball joint to the top cover. Demolding is done from the bottom

because of the presence of a tilting lower lid and under the action of the compression plate.(6)

Figure 8 Solution 2 Solid Work's design

LEGEND:
1) Compression lever
2) Compression plate
3) Pivot
4) Support
5) Base

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Solution 3

Here too, compaction is performed by a crank-slide system. guidance is provided by the top cover.

We also have the compression lever which is attached to the latter by means of a ball joint.

However, for this manual press, the release is done by the upper part, thanks to the use of a second

mold that fits into the first. It should be noted that this

second mold has only three faces: two lateral and one lower. The two side faces are provided with

handles for extracting the second mold from the first. The demolding is therefore manual.(6)

Figure 9 Solution 3 Solid Work's design

21
LEGEND
1) handle
2) compression lever
3) compression plate
4) Inner mold
5) outdoor mold
6) support

Solution 4

This press consists of a fairly complex system that provides the two main functions, i.e. compaction

and demolding. The system is actually composed of two crank-slide mechanisms. A superior

mechanism that allows compacting and another lower loaded demolding. The two mechanisms are

connected by a cam which in compaction phase eliminates the demolding mechanism and actuates

the latter once the top cover of the mold is opened. It should be noted that the coefficient of friction

between the cam and the demolding lever must be low hence the need for a careful choice of their

manufacturing materials.(6)

22

Figure 10 Solution 4 Solid Work's design

LEGEND:
1) demolding tray
2) compression plate
3) compression lever
4) cam
5) demolding lever

Solution 5

In the case of this press, unlike the previous, the plate and the compacting mechanism are located

at the bottom of the mold. compaction is always done by a crank-slider mechanism. And it is this

same mechanism that ensures demolding. To do this simply remove the locking system of the top

cover and fold the latter on the other side with the help of the compression lever. To prevent this

press from tipping during compaction, it must be firmly attached to the ground.(6)

23

Figure 11 Solution 5 Solid Work's design

LEGEND:
1) compression lever
2) handle
3) blocking system
4) compression plate

24
 Practicability Study

At this stage of the development of the press, the needs analysis, that the goals and specifications

of the press have been established to the best of our knowledge. It is now through the feasibility

study that we will dissect all the solutions that were found during the generation of solutions and

see if they meet the criteria that had been set beforehand. It will therefore be necessary for each

solution to answer different questions such as:

-Are the objectives achieved?

- Are the restrictions respected?

- Does the solution face realization problems?

So we will take the solutions one by one and we will try to see if they meet the requirements of

departure.

Solution 1

The main flaw of this solution is that its manufacture will not be very simple because of the

machining of the large screw. The demolding being done from below could pose some problems.

On the other hand the control of compaction can be done very easily.

Solution 2

Here we are dealing with a fairly simple and easy-to-perform press. But as for the previous

solution, the demolding is quite delicate, it would be advisable to do it by the bottom of the mold.

Solution 3

This press is also quite simple. And because of its configuration (nesting of two molds), it has a

very simple demolding that is done manually. Its use is a bit difficult.

25
Solution 4

It is a press that has a very reliable mechanical release. Its main drawback is its complexity due to

the use of two crank-slide mechanisms. Its realization appears at first sight delicate.

Solution 5

This press has the advantage of being simple and easy to use.

The main criticism that could be made to it is that it needs a good ground fixation to prevent it

from tipping during molding and demolding operations, resulting in a fairly low stability. The

locking system of the top cover could also be a problem. This press has a good mechanical release.

Choice Of The Final Solution

Through the feasibility study, we notice that there are two solutions that generally meet the initial

criteria, which are solutions 3 and 5. It is therefore on one these two solutions that our choice will

fall.

There are several decision techniques. We will be using the simple decision matrix. This matrix

systematizes decision-making between the various solutions to the problem. To do this, we

associate a return to each of the solutions for each of the evaluation criteria already established in

the "problem definition" phase. The columns of the matrix are associated with the different

solutions. The lines relate to the evaluation criteria already fixed and their relative weighting. The

score of each solution is obtained by summing the elements of each line, previously multiplied by

the weighting factors of the appropriate criteria.

26
Table 2 Decision Matrix Table

Evaluation criteria Weighting Solution 3 Solution 5

Simplicity 20 A A

Cost 25 B B

Easy to use 10 A C

Easy to demould 15 A A

Easy to build 15 B A

Stability 10 D B

Maintenance 05 A A

result 100 345 330

A: excellent (4 points)

B: Good (3points)

C: Average (2 points)

D: Mediocre (1 point)

According to the decision matrix we will systematically opt for the third solution which seems to

be the most efficient. Our study will be based on this specific solution.

27
 Dimensionning Of The Press

Calculation Of Sliding Crank System

The system takes at the end and at the beginning of compression the
following configurations:

Figure 12 Sliding Crank System at the Begining and the End of Compression

here we will determine l2 knowing l1 and h. (4)

with l1 = 60 mm

h is the piston stroke = 100 mm

ℎ 100
tan 𝛼 = = = 1.67
𝑙1 60

where we get

𝛼 = 59

l2 is given by:

𝑙1 60
𝑙2 = = = 116.6 𝑚𝑚
cos 𝛼 cos 59
so the slot of the compression lever has a minimum length

𝑙 = 𝑙2 − 𝑙1 = 116.6 − 60

28
 𝑙 = 56.6 𝑚𝑚

Calculation Of The Forces

when isolating the different elements of the compression system, we get the following figures(6)

Figure 13 force Acting on the Compression Plate

Figure 14 Forces Acting on the Lever

the force Fc is the resultant force of the compression pressure which is equal to:

𝐹𝑐 = 𝑃9 ∗ 𝐴 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑃9 = 3 ∗ 10@ 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑐𝑎𝑙𝑠

𝐴 = 310 ∗ 150 𝑚𝑚

𝐹D = 13950 𝑁

from the figure, we can see that

𝐹D = 𝐹9 = 13950 𝑁

29
In this case we neglect the friction between the guide cylinder and the compression cylinder as

well as between the compression plate and the inner mold.

* At this stage, we can calculate the length of the compression lever according to the free body

diagram of the lever.

R is the reaction at the pivot.

P is the exerted force by an average user, so we will assume that his weight will be equal to 70kg.
𝑚
𝑃 = 𝑀 ∗ 𝐺 = 70𝐾𝐺 ∗ 9.81
𝑠J

we have seen before that l1=60 mm.

by adding the sum of the moments according to the pivot we get the following formula:

𝐹9 ∗ 𝑙L
𝑃 ∗ 𝐿 = 𝐹9 ∗ 𝑙L 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝐿 =
𝑃

so

13950 ∗ 0.06
𝐿= = 1.22𝑚
687

we get then

𝑅 = 𝑃 − 𝐹9 = 13950 − 687

𝑅 = 13263 𝑁

30
Dimensioning Of The Interior Mould
Plate A And B

Figure 15 Dimensions of the Interior Mold

The plates A and B are identical and have evenly distributed load and the same conditions at the

edges. Consequently, they will have the same dimensioning.

* Conditions at the edges: three free sides and one closed.

* Loading: load evenly distributed over the entire surface.

The surface at the end of the compression is:

80 ∗ 150 𝑚𝑚 = 24800 𝑚𝑚J

The charge at the end of the compression is: 3 ∗ 10@ 𝑁 𝑚𝑚J

This load can be considered as a linear load uniformly distributed along the 80 mm. The charge

therefore becomes:

3 ∗ 10@ 𝑁 𝑚J ∗ 0.15 = 45 𝐾𝑁 𝑚J

so, we get the following diagrams:

31

Figure 16 Shear Force and Bending Moments' diagrams

the reaction at R

𝑅 = 𝐿 ∗ 𝑊 = 0.08J ∗ 45000 = 3600𝑁

maximum moment

𝑊 ∗ 𝐿J
𝑀PQR = = 144𝑁 ∗ 𝑚
2

Calculating The Thickness Of Plates A And B

let s be the tension constraint to extreme fibbers.

T∗U T∗U
We have 𝜎 = where 𝑒 = ( ).
Q∗V W Q∗Y

With
Y[\] J`@ 𝑁
𝑎 = 150 𝑚𝑚 and 𝜎 = = 𝑚𝑚J
^_ J

32
we then obtain:

6 ∗ 144
𝑒= = 7 𝑚𝑚
0.15 ∗ 117.5 ∗ 10T

the thickness of both plates A and B is 7mm.

Plate C
four of the sides are normally supported. In this case we have:

Figure 17 Dimensions of Plate C

𝑏
∝= = 2.07
𝑎

we will take the according coefficients to ∝= 2.

L9d e
We also have the Poisson’s ratio, 𝑣 = 0.3, E=200 GPA and 𝑃9 = 3 ∗
PW

The maximum moments according to span a and b are:

• Span b:

(𝑀R )PQR = 𝐶J 𝑃9 𝑎J

= 0.1017 ∗ 0.15J ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ = 686.5 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

• Span a:

(𝑀g )PQR = 𝐶` 𝑃9 𝑎J

33
 = 0.0464 ∗ 0.15J ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ = 313.2 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

the total maximum moment is given by the following formula:

𝑀PQR = 𝑀R PQR + 𝑣 ∗ 𝑀g PQR

= 686.5 + 0.3 ∗ 313.2 = 781𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

Calculating The Thickness Of Plate C

We have

T∗U T∗U
𝜎= where 𝑒 = ( )
VW Y

So
T∗ijL
𝑒= ( )= 6.31 mm
LLi.@∗L9k

since we have holes we introduce a constraint factor Kt=2.0. we get then 𝜎 = 58.75 ∗ 10T

then

6 ∗ 781
𝑒= = 8.9 𝑚𝑚
58.75 ∗ 10T

𝑒 = 8.9 𝑚𝑚

34
Dimensioning Of The Exterior Mould

Figure 18 Dimensions of The Exterior Mold

Plates E And F

The plates E and F are identical. They have an evenly distributed load and the same conditions at

the edges. Hence, they will have the same dimensioning.

Conditions at the edges: 3 fixed sides and 1 free side.

Figure 19 Reference Axises

We have

𝑎 80
𝑏= 310 = 0.258

In the table giving the values of the different coefficients, we do not have a column corresponding

to a / b = 0.258. It will therefore be necessary to find the corresponding coefficients to extrapolate.

We have

35
 𝑦L − 𝑦 𝑦J − 𝑦L
=
𝑥L − 𝑥 𝑥J − 𝑥L

𝑦J − 𝑦L
𝑦L − 𝑦 = ∗ 𝑥L − 𝑥
𝑥J − 𝑥L

we have then
𝑦J − 𝑦L
𝑦= ∗ 𝑥L − 𝑥 + 𝑦L
𝑥J − 𝑥L

0.258 − 0.3
𝑦= ∗ 𝑦J − 𝑦L + 𝑦L
0.4 − 0.3
Table 3 Coeffiecient Table

a/b 0.30 0.40 0.258

C1 -0.0048 -0.0014 -0.0062

C2 -0.0026 0.0070 0.0008

a -0.3833 -0.2783 -0.4274

b -0.0131 -0.0242 -0.0038

C3 0.0078 0.0173 0.0038

g -0.0333 -0.0545 -0.0244

𝑀R RnQ J,gnp J = 𝐶L 𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.0062 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.31J = −178.7𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

𝑀g RnQ J,gnp J
= 𝐶J 𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.0008 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.31J = 23.1𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

𝑀g Rn9,gnp J
= 𝐶` 𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.0038 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.31J = 109.6𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

𝑀R RnQ J,gn9 = b𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.0084 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.31J = −242.2𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

36
 𝑀g Rn9,gn9
= g𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.0244 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.31J = −703.5𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

𝑀g RnQ,gn9
= a𝑃9 𝑏 J = −0.4274 ∗ 3 ∗ 10@ ∗ 0.08J = −920.6𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

𝑀g RnQ,gnp J
=0

we have according to span x and y:

(𝑀g )L = 𝑣 ∗ 𝑀R + 𝑀g = 0.15 ∗ −821 = −123𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

(𝑀R )L = (𝑀R )RnQ,gnp + 𝑣L ∗ (𝑀g )RnQ,gnp = −821𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

J J

we can see

(𝑀R )L = 𝑀PQR

this moment corresponds to v = 0.30. we will look for the moment corresponding to v = 0.30, that

is given by:

1
(𝑀R )J = ∗ 1 − 𝑣L ∗ 𝑣J ∗ (𝑀R )L + 𝑣J −𝑣L ∗ (𝑀g )L
1 − 𝑣J

1
(𝑀R )J = ∗ 1 − 0.15 ∗ 0.30 ∗ −821 + 0.30 − 0.15 ∗ (−123)
1 − 0.15J

(𝑀R )J = −821𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

Calculating The Thickness Of Plates E And F

we have

6∗𝑀 6 ∗ 821
𝑒= ( )= ( )
𝜎 117.5 ∗ 10T

𝑒 = 6.5𝑚𝑚

H And G Plates And Bottom Plates Of The Exterior Mold

The plates H and G work in tension under the action of the plates E and F, but they are retained at

their bases by the plates of the lower part of the outer mold, so their dimensioning is not necessary.

37
A small check shows us that any plate of thickness equal to the thickness of plates E and F is

suitable. It is the same for the plates of the lower part of the outer mold which are supported from

below by the feet of the press.

Dimensioning Of The Compression System

Calculation Of The Thickness Of The Compression Cylinder

Figure 20 Force Acting on the Compression Cylinder

we have (10)

𝐹L 13950 13950
𝜎QqP = = J =𝜋
𝐴 𝜋∗𝑑 J 𝜋 ∗ (𝑑 − 2 ∗ 𝑒) ∗ 𝑑J − 𝑑 − 2 ∗ 𝑒
− 4
4 4

13950
𝜎QqP =
𝜋 ∗ (𝑒 ∗ 𝑑 − 𝑒 J )

from that we get the following values for e:

𝑒L = 59.4 𝑚𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑒J = 0.64 𝑚𝑚

38
so consequently, we will take the smallest value.

So

𝑒L = 0.64 𝑚𝑚

Calculation Of The Thickness Of The Compression Plate

Let's make the following simplifying assumptions:

The load applied by the compression cylinder is a concentrated point load.

The uniformly distributed load is transformed over the entire surface into a uniformly distributed

linear load.

Figure 21 shear Force and Bending Moment's Diagrams

39
Calculation Of The Shear Forces

To the left of the concentrated load P we have (10)

𝑣 = 𝑃9 𝑥 𝑓𝑜𝑟 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝐿 2

to the right of P, we have

𝑣 = 𝑃 − 𝑃9 𝑥 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝐿 2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝐿

Calculation Of The Maximum Bending Moment

We have

𝑃9 𝐿J
𝑀PQR = = 541 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚
8

the thickness “e” of the compression plate is calculated by this formula

6∗𝑀
𝑒= = 13.5 𝑚𝑚
0.15 ∗ 117.5 ∗ 10T

Dimensioning Of The Cylinder’s Axis Of Compression

We have the following diagrams

Calculation Of The Reactions:

13950
𝑅L = 𝑅J = = 6975𝑁
2

Calculation Of Maximum Moment:

𝑃 ∗ 𝑙 13950 ∗ 0.06
𝑀PQR = = = 209 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚
4 4

Calculation Of The Axis’ Diameter:

From (10)
𝑀∗𝑑 J
𝜎= 2 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐼 = 𝜋 ∗ 𝑑
𝐼 64

40
so

𝑀∗𝑑
𝜎= 2 = 32 ∗ 𝑀
𝜋∗ 𝑑J 𝜋 ∗ 𝑑`
64

so, we solve for d

32 ∗ 𝑀 L
𝑑=( )`
𝜋∗𝜎

consequently

𝑑 = 26 𝑚𝑚

Dimensioning Of The Pivots’ Axis

Following the same assumptions, we get

𝑅L = 𝑅J = 6632𝑁

13263 ∗ 0.06
𝑀PQR = = 199 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚
4

then we can get the diameter of the pivot’s axis

32 ∗ 199
𝑑= = 0.026
𝜋 ∗ 117.5 ∗ 10T

𝑑 = 26 𝑚𝑚

Dimensioning Of The Compression’s Lever

The moments diagram gives us as a maximum bending moment

𝑀PQR = 𝑃 ∗ 𝑎 = 687 ∗ 1.16 = 797 𝑁 ∗ 𝑚

the section to which we will apply the maximum moment have the following configuration

41

Figure 22 Cross section of the Compression Lever

the maximum constraint is given by:

𝑀∗𝑐 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ` −𝑑L `
𝜎= 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐼 =
𝐼 12

the constraint becomes

𝑀∗𝑑
6∗𝑀∗𝑑
𝜎= 2 =
`
𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ` −𝑑L 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ` − 𝑑L `
12

we then get the following equation

𝑑 ` − 0.002 ∗ 𝑑 = 2.7 ∗ 10{@

𝑑 = 50 𝑚𝑚

Calculation Of The Lever’s Tube Of Compression

For a distance “a” from the pivot’s axis we have the value of the moment at that point equal to:

𝑀 = 686 ∗ 1.22 − 𝑎

𝑀 = 700.7 𝑛 ∗ 𝑚 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎 = 200 𝑚𝑚

now we will dimension the tube at that point

we have from the constraint equation

42
 32 ∗ 𝑀 L
𝑑=( )`
𝜋∗𝜎

so

𝑑 = 40 𝑚𝑚

Pivot’s Calculation

The pivot consists of two rectangular plates each having a length of 90 mm and a width of 50 mm

Each of the plates is also pierced to receive the axis of the pivot, this hole has a diameter of d = 30

mm. The plates will be dimensioned in traction. We therefore have the following configuration for

each plate:

We have

13263 𝐹 13263
𝐹= 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜎QqP = ∗ 𝐾| = ∗ 𝐾|
2 𝐴 2 ∗ 0.02 ∗ ℎ

with h equals to the width of each plate

𝐾| = 2

we get

13263 ∗ 𝐾| 13632
ℎ= = = 5.6 𝑚𝑚
2 ∗ 0.02 ∗ 𝜎QqP 0.02 ∗ 117.5 ∗ 10T

so

ℎ = 6 𝑚𝑚

after this Force analysis we get that :

• Thickness of plate A and B of the interior mold should be 7mm.

• Thickness of plate c of the interior mold should be 6 mm.

• Thickness of plate E and F of the exterior mold should be 6.5 mm.

• Thickness of the compression cylinder should be 0.64 mm.

• Thickness of the compression plate should be 13.5 mm.

43
 • Diameter of the cylinder’s axis of compression should be26mm.

• Diameter of the compression lever should be 50 mm.

• Diameter of the levers tube of compression should be 40 mm.

• The height of the pivots is 6 mm.

44
 Conclusion

After choosing the right solution for us, we went through an overall analysis. This analysis

would help us figure out the best measurements for our prototype. We should remember that the

reason behind our whole project was to minimize the costs and be able to produce a machine that

may be used in the rural area. By going through this analysis, we managed to design a machine

that is at the lowest budget possible while not forgetting efficiency.

After going through all these analyses, we managed to get a final design for our prototype.

We have all the needed measurements in order to go through the next step. Hopefully, our next

step will indeed be our realization step. Our prototype, based on our design, should be fully

operational and functional.

With that being said, we have nevertheless been able to note that the results obtained

concerning the design, sizing as well as the characteristics of the press, are quite satisfactory and

can therefore be the basis of the popularization of this product. We can thus contribute in a

significant way to our project that consists of building a thermal efficient house model.

45
 Recommandations

The first recommendation would be to realize a prototype of the desired machine so that

we can get an absolute idea of the machine’s proportions. I would also recommend to use bronze

between the cylinder and the compressions axis. We can use bronze so that we can reduce the

friction between the material.

The third recommendation would be to give an approximation of the costs so that we can

build our desired prototype.

We should also determine the weight, efficiency and the desired compression rate. The

final step would be to optimize those characteristics for an optimal outcome.

46
 References

1. Brick presses - MecoConcept. (2018). Retrieved from

https://www.mecoconcept.com/en/our-products/brick-presses/
2. Eires, R. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/264119160_Study_of_a_new_interlo
cking_stabilised_compressed_earth_blocks
3. Formats and Editions of Méthodologie du design [WorldCat.org]. (2018).
Retrieved from http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/15898003/editions
4. Handbook of Steel Construction – 11th Edition, 3rd Revised Printing 2017 –
CISC-ICCA. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.cisc-
icca.ca/product/handbook-steel-construction-11th-edition-3rd-revised-printing-
2017/
5. Interlocking Brick Making Machine | National Innovation Foundation-India.
(2018). Retrieved from http://nif.org.in/innovation/interlocking-brick-making-
machine/772
6. Manual Brick Making Machine | National Innovation Foundation-India. (2018).
Retrieved from http://nif.org.in/innovation/brick-making-machine/797
7. Özil, E., & Yaşar, K. (2018). Analysis of Flat Plate Collectors.
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0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-about---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-
0utfZz-8-00&cl=CL1.16&d=HASH4edbf917bee4e6ae86aa2c.16&gt=2
9. Szilard, R. (2018). Theory and analysis of plates: classical and numerical
methods. Retrieved from https://lib.ugent.be/en/catalog/rug01:001275820
10. Young, W., & Budynas, R. (2001). Roark's Formulas for Stress and Strain (7th
Edition). New York, USA: McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing.
11. (2018). Retrieved from
https://arrow.dit.ie/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1007&context=engschmeccon
12. Force Exerted by a Jet on a Flat Vertical Plate. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/fluid_mechanics/force_exerted_by_a_jet_on_a
_flat_vertical_plate.asp

47
 Appendix

48