Design of a reusable pen assembling and dispensing unit

Abstract

The paper discusses a reusable pen assembly and dispensing unit designed to meet the growing need for a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to single use pens. This system automates key operations such as blind cap removal, ink tube replacement, and pen reassembly through a series of electromechanical actuators, sensors, and limit switches, thereby retaining proper alignment and operational precision. In addition to promoting sustainability, the design focuses on the reuse of pen components such as pen barrels and blind caps, reducing plastic waste. Also, it encourages environmentally responsible behavior, especially among younger users, by promoting the reuse of disposable pens. This initiative supports the global shift toward circular economy solutions in everyday consumer products. The machine features a compact footprint of 610 mm × 650 mm × 350 mm and completes a full pen reassembly cycle in just 48 seconds, making it suitable for educational institutions and small-scale applications. Performance evaluation will be carried out after fabrication to assess assembly accuracy, reliability, and cycle efficiency. Overall, the system contributes to green behavior on the consumer side and reinforces the concept of the circular economy in daily life.