Background

ÖzerBerg Gård is a ranch in Västmanland specializing in horse care. The ranch is managed by Lukas Özer and Filippa Berg.

Project

The student will be responsible for developing a comprehensive CAD drawing for an automated horse feeding system. The device is intended to feed a horse four times per day using a fully mechanical system controlled by a mechanical timer operating on a 24-hour cycle. The design must clearly illustrate the use of robust materials that can withstand challenges such as kicks, bites, and other physical impacts. Furthermore, the design should incorporate weather-resistant features, achieved through the use of stainless steel, durable plastics, or other suitable materials, while also being cost-effective and inexpensive to manufacture.

In addition, the student will receive background material and pre-existing drawings that detail parts of the product’s functionality. The expectation is to either expand upon these initial designs or develop independent alternatives that can be compared with the original drawings. Weekly online discussion sessions (2–3 hours) will be provided throughout the project to ensure guidance and address any queries.

If the CAD drawings are assessed as ready for manufacturing, prototypes will be produced. The student will have the opportunity to visit the ranch both during the development phase (if needed) and later when the final product is tested in a real-world environment.

Objective

• Identifying and understanding the problem associated with automated horse feeding.
• Assessing potential risks related to the design and operation of the device.
• Designing, building, and evaluating a model that meets the practical demands of the ranch environment.

Method

• Challenge Analysis: Identify and understand the unique challenges of maintaining horses and ensuring their proper nutrition through automated feeding.
• Design and Documentation: Develop a detailed CAD drawing that demonstrates the functionality, robustness, and cost-efficiency of the device. Document the design process comprehensively.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the ranch owners and staff to ensure that the solution aligns with the practical requirements of ÖzerBerg Gård.

Your Qualifications

• Current or recent enrollment in a graduate program or course in industrial engineering, innovation technology, technical design, product development, or an equivalent field.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as in a team.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal (in English or Swedish).

What the Company Offers

• An opportunity to be part of an innovative company dedicated to advancing the ranch industry.
• Access to field studies and hands-on project involvement, including site visits to ÖzerBerg Gård.
• Potential for employment after graduation based on project performance and outcomes.

This assignment offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to apply technical design skills in a real-world context while contributing to the modernization of ranch management practices at ÖzerBerg Gård.

Contact

If you are interested in this project and would like to know more, contact Per Kristav via e-mail: per.kristav@design.lth.se