College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
General Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in General Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Materials Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Materials Engineering
College - Author 4
College of Engineering
Department - Author 4
General Engineering Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in General Engineering
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor
Lauren Rueda, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
The Semi-Automated Wine Case Palletizer project was sponsored by Saucelito Canyon Winery to reduce the physical demands of manually palletizing wine cases during bottling operations.
Using customer requirements developed through sponsor meetings and observations, the team designed, manufactured, and tested a semi-automated palletizing system consisting of a rotating carousel platform, pneumatic scissor-lift assembly, airbag jack, and forklift-compatible base. The design allows operators to maintain an ergonomic working height while accessing all pallet locations from a single position.
Engineering analyses, including finite element, fatigue, and buckling analyses, verified the structural integrity of the design. Prototype testing confirmed successful operation of the lifting system, 360-degree carousel rotation, and stable performance under the maximum available test load of 350 lb. The palletizer achieved an operating height range of approximately 1 ft 5 in to 2 ft 4 in while maintaining smooth and controlled operation.
Although the final project cost of approximately $2,271 exceeded the original $1,500 budget target, the completed prototype successfully met the majority of the project's engineering objectives. The resulting design demonstrates a practical and cost-effective solution for improving ergonomics and efficiency in small-scale winery palletizing operations.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/901