Recoil engines in pressure washers are valued for their simplicity, reliability, portability, and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal for users seeking durable and fuel-efficient solutions. However, starting a recoil engine requires manual effort, which can be a significant limitation in industrial settings. At BE Power Equipment, pressure washers with recoil engines undergo testing in the test room, where operators manually pull the starter rope to turn the engines on. Unfortunately, the operators often apply inconsistent force, requiring multiple pulls to start the engine. This not only delays production but also puts strain on the operators' shoulders, potentially leading to injuries.

To address this challenge, our team worked on automating the starting process by designing and implementing an automated engine starter. I was involved in the design and prototyping stages, where I explored various automation solutions, including a battery-powered gear-driven system and a pneumatic air-cylinder-driven system. My role involved brainstorming innovative ideas, performing calculations, and testing prototypes to ensure feasibility and efficiency. This project strengthened my automation expertise and demonstrated my ability to solve complex problems in a collaborative environment.