PIPE SORTING SYSTEM – FROM DESIGN TO IMPLEMENTATION

This paper presents the design, development, and validation of an automated pipe sorting system built as a small-scale prototype integrating mechanical structures, infrared sensing, and Arduino-based control. The project follows the complete engineering workflow, beginning with concept generation and functional decomposition, continuing with iterative prototyping, subsystem testing, and final integration. The system performs pipe transportation, length measurement through timed sensor interruption, and robotic sorting using a 6-DOF arm. Emphasis is placed on experimental calibration, modular programming, and problem-solving strategies that address challenges such as sensor sensitivity, mechanical alignment, and communication constraints. Results show that the prototype achieves consistent classification for four pipe lengths, demonstrating that low-cost components and systematic testing can yield a reliable model of industrial automation. The project can also be expanded diversifying the types of pipes that can be sorted, increasing measurement accuracy, as well as using AI techniques in decision-making mechanism. The study highlights the educational value and scalability potential of modular, resource-efficient automation design.