Msc: Graduation Assignment Mechanical Engineering - Design a fast accurate printhead lifting system

Are you an MSc student in Mechanical Engineering with an interest in precision mechanics, dynamics and mechatronic system design? Do you want to work on a challenging motion system in which accuracy, speed, stiffness and control all come together? We are looking for you!

Your assignment

In high-end printing systems, the distance between the printheads and the paper (the printgap) must be maintained with very high accuracy to ensure print quality. At the same time, the system must be able to react quickly when a sheet shows excessive deformation, requiring a rapid upward movement of the printheads to prevent damage.

Currently, these two functions—accurate gap setting and fast lifting—are handled separately. The goal of this assignment is to investigate and design a new concept in which a single mechanism can fulfil both functions. This introduces challenging requirements in terms of speed, accuracy, stiffness, load capacity, and travel range.

You will explore how an existing short-stroke positioning system can be redesigned to support both precise positioning and high-speed actuation. You will develop a mechanical concept, including the drive system, stiffness and deformation behaviour, and tolerance aspects. In addition, you will analyse the dynamic performance of the system, including required speeds, accelerations and timing. You will also consider the mechatronic aspects, such as actuation principles and control strategies needed to achieve the desired performance.

The result of the assignment is a well-substantiated system design that combines fast actuation with high positioning accuracy, while remaining feasible and cost-effective.

Your profile

• You are an MSc student in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related discipline
• You have affinity with precision mechanics, dynamics and motion systems
• You enjoy combining system thinking with detailed mechanical design
• You have experience with modelling, calculations and preferably simulation tools
• You are interested in mechatronic design, including actuation and control aspects

What’s in it for you?

• A challenging assignment with skilled coaching
• Travel cost compensation if you don’t have an ‘OV-weekcard’
• The possibility to network with professionals inside and outside your field of expertise, thanks to our diversity of disciplines which you will work with

About Canon Production Printing

We develop and manufacture high-tech printing products and workflow software for the commercial printing market as part of Canon, a global leader in imaging technologies. Our culture is built on openness, collegiality, trust and stability. We empower our people to grow, take initiative, and make an impact.