Table of contents:


TARS version 1.0

Week 20: Project Development

(by jijake1977- flickr)

What is the deadline? How much time do I have left?

My presentation is on Wednesday 19.06.2019 at around 16:00 CET. Today is Monday 17.06.2019, it means I still have almost two full days to complete remaining tasks. Someone would say it is plenty of time, when other would stress. I'm not stressing but I don't feel it is much time either. It is simply enough time to put everything together. I have all of parts ready, it is time to put everything together.

The plan for Monday is to ensure that transistors are working properly. If needed I will fabricate another version of PCBs. Then I will put everything inside of the chassis.

On Tuesday (18.06.2019) I ensure that everything is working correctly and as planned. Then I record final video and take the "hero shot of TARS". On the evening I will push both presentation files on the server.

On Wednesday I will simply chill. There is still some backup hours as I will have my presentation around 16:00. Hopefully everything will go as planned.

What tasks have been completed, and what tasks remain?

I think easiest to explain it is to use a list:

      Schematic and PCB of Motherboard (ver 1.1.)
      Schematic and PCB of Interface (ver 1.1.)
      Verification of HP LEDs operation (ver 1.1.)
      Verification of proper light scattering from CD
      Verification of lens usability
      Gathering all required components
      2D-laser cut and engraved chassis
      3D-holing pins printing
      Firmware in Arduino IDE
      Fixing chassis in proper position (standing)
      Transistor operation check
      Embedding HP LED circuits in the arms
      Embedding Motherboard and Interface inside of the chassis
      Final checkup

How will I complete the remaining tasks in time?

There are just simple tasks left. I might need to redesign printed circuits a bit but it is rather cosmetic change than adding features as I already tested their abilities. What is left is just manual work , connecting everything inside and a bit of troubleshooting

There is no way that I won't manage on time. Let me backup my words with Interstellar quote:

Brand: Cooper, what are you doing?
Cooper: Docking.
Case: It's not possible!
Cooper: No, it's necessary.

What has worked?

First of all, rainbow generator turned to work pretty well. However, light had to be backscattered. LCD screen, buttons and photoresistor worked same good. I could sense even minor changes in illumination and visualize any text on the screen. Button fit in holes and worked as inputs.

What has not worked?

I have to redesign Dark Sky Map generator as light source was too weak. Halogen lamp would be more sufficient but it was rather crazy to put it inside MDF box. Besides current and voltage limitations successfully prevented me from using halogens.

Thermistor was connected to (analog) comparator pin. It is not working properly. Most likely it can be fixed in the software.

What questions still need to be resolved?

First and only question is how to fit everything. I know it is possible it just need a bit of efforts.

What have you learned?

The list is quite long. Basically every single week was teaching me something new. I learned a LOT about 2D and 3D designs. I also learned by heart way to fabricate PCBs, which might be very handy in the future. Not mentioning improving programming skills. I think I have never spent more time with Arduino IDE. I remember machining week was fun as I made my own piece of furniture. Molding and casting and moment, when I made a Witcher medallion and many many more. I would like to mention most important things during specific weeks:

As someone said:
"It is possible to make almost everything"!