Week 17: Applications and Implications
Propose a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered, answering some questions.
Cronogram
Gantt Chart
| Activity | Start Date | Due Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research | 01/01/2024 | 28/01/2024 | 6 days |
| Previous Works | 01/01/2024 | 28/01/2024 | 6 days |
| Sketch | 01/01/2024 | 28/01/2024 | 3 days |
| Define materials | 29/01/2024 | 17/02/2024 | 5 days |
| Proto | 18/02/2024 | 01/03/2024 | 5 days |
| Make PCB | 02/03/2024 | 15/04/2024 | 4 days |
| Design Interface | 16/04/2024 | 20/04/2024 | 7 days | days
| Program | 21/04/2024 | 30/04/2024 | 10 days |
| Print and Cut pieces | 21/04/2024 | 30/04/2024 | 8 days |
| Slide | 02/03/2024 | 15/04/2024 | 2 days |
| Test | 01/05/2024 | 05/05/2024 | 2 days |
| Assemble | 01/05/2024 | 13/05/2024 | 4 days |
| Final Touches | 01/05/2024 | 13/05/2024 | 5 days |
| Video | 14/05/2024 | 19/05/2024 | 2 days |
| Presentation | 20/05/2024 | 10/06/2024 | 1 day |
Questions
What will it do?
The automated rotatory organizer will allow users to select and retrieve objects stored within it. It will use a Xiao ESP32C3 microcontroller, a NEMA 17 stepper motor for rotation, a strip of Neopixels for illumination, and acrylic walls to create divisions. The organizer will facilitate easy access to stored items through an automated and user-friendly interface.
Who's done what beforehand?
Automated Storage Solutions: Various automated storage solutions have been developed, including robotic systems in warehouses that optimize inventory management and retrieval. Examples include Amazon's Kiva robots and automated pharmacy dispensers.
Rotary Organizers: There are existing rotary organizers for various uses, such as spice racks and office supply holders, but these typically lack automation and smart features.
What will you design?
I will design a rotatory organizer with multiple compartments separated by acrylic walls. The base and shelves will be 3D printed in PLA. The organizer will include:
- A Xiao ESP32C3 microcontroller for control and communication.
- A NEMA 17 stepper motor for rotating the compartments.
- A strip of Neopixels for lighting each compartment.
- A 12V power supply to power the entire system.
Materials and Components
What materials and components will be used and their costs?
| Material | Cost (MXN) | Link for Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Xiao ESP32C3 | $200.00 | Buy Here |
| NEMA 17 Motor | $300.00 | Buy Here |
| Neopixels | $250.00 | Buy Here |
| Acrylic Sheets | $150.00 | Buy Here |
| PLA Filament | $500.00 | Buy Here |
| 12V Power Supply | $400.00 | Buy Here |
| Resistors | $25.00 | Buy Here |
| Pin Headers | $30.00 | Buy Here |
| Connectors and Cables | $65.00 | Buy Here |
| Miscellaneous Hardware | $45.00 | Buy Here |
| Total | $1965.00 |
Parts and Systems
What parts and systems will be made?
- PCB Design and Fabrication: Design and fabricate the PCB to house the Xiao ESP32C3 and other electronic components.
- 3D Printed Components: Print the base, shelves, and mounts for the motor and PCB using PLA filament.
- Assembly: Assemble the acrylic walls, Neopixels, motor, and other components into the final organizer.
- Programming: Develop the software to control the motor and lights, and to handle user inputs for selecting and retrieving items.
Processes
What processes will be used?
PCB Fabrication
- 3D Printing
- Laser Cutting
- Vinil Cutting
- Programming (Microcontroller and Neopixels)
- System Integration
- Testing and Calibration
Questions to Answer
What questions need to be answered?
How do the user interact with the interface?
What algorithms and techniques are used to control the rotation and lights display
How is user feedback integrated into the and how it helps the project improve
Evaluation
How will it be evaluated?
- Functionality Tests:
Conduct tests to ensure the organizer correctly rotates to the selected compartment and lights it up as expected.
- User Feedback:
Gather feedback from users regarding ease of use, reliability, and any suggestions for improvement.
- Durability and Maintenance:
Test the durability of the 3D printed parts and the reliability of the electronic components over extended use.
Test the durability of the 3D printed parts and the reliability of the electronic components over extended use.
Modular Design
The organizer is designed to be modular, allowing easy replacement of components such as the motor, Neopixels, or microcontroller without disassembling the entire unit. This modularity enhances the system's maintainability and longevity.