✅Generate toolpath for milling (Roland or other mill)
✅Mill PCB
✅Stuff and solder components
Test continuity and basic functionality
Debug PCB (if needed)
Integrate power supply system
Connect sensor and actuator wiring (neat and modular)
✅Finalize electronics system diagram (what components, what connections, what power requirements, what supporting electronics...regulators, resistors, filtering capacitors, protection diodes)
Breadboard all subsystems and test with MCU and code to ensure proper, predictable functionality(then the rest of your list)
💻 Programming
Write microcontroller firmware (Arduino/C code)
Interface with sensors (temperature, humidity, light, soil moisture)
Control actuators (fans, water pump, LED grow light, etc.)
Optional: Add user interface (OLED display, buttons, or serial monitor)
✅Write a list of functionality you want your code to perform...ex: turn on the LED when the Phototransistor value rises above 500, turn on the water pump for 10 seconds with the soil moisture sensor value drops below 200, etc.
Turn on LED when Phototransistor reading > 500.
Turn off LED when Phototransistor reading ≤ 500.
Turn on Water Pump for 10 seconds when Soil Moisture Sensor reading < 200.
Turn on Fan when Temperature Sensor reads > 35°C or when Humidity > 80%..
Write (sub) programs to control the functionality of each device connected to the microcontroller (ask Rico about how to create different tabs to organize code...)
Test each program with the electronic subsystem that it should control...ex: test the photo transistor value reading, test the relay controlling the light, test if the photo transistor can be used to send ON/OFF instructions to the light relay
🛠️ Fabrication (3D Printing, Laser Cutting, CNC)
Design 2D/3D parts in Fusion 360 or similar
Laser cut enclosure walls and the head of the pig(1st module)
3D print small parts (sensor holders, motor couplers, joints)
Assemble all fabricated parts
Integrate electronics into the structure securely
Determine the enclosure size and shape required to contain and protect your electronic system
Design an enclosure based on the 2 points above...also consider, how to access electronics to debug, how to feed power to the system, where to have wires go IN/OUT of your enclosure, etc.(the rest of your list)
📝 Documentation & Presentation
✅Document each process step (photos, videos, sketches)
✅Write weekly updates (include learnings and challenges)
✅Create a dedicated Final Project Page
Record final project video (showing demo & features)
Compress files and prepare for final project upload (CAD, code, etc.)
✅Ensure site is clean, accessible, and meets Fab Academy standards
⚙️ Mechanism Design
Design water distribution system (pipes, pump, valves)
Design ventilation system (fan placement, airflow direction)
Mount sensors in optimal positions for accurate readings
Ensure modularity and maintenance access
Create holders and guides for moving parts (if any)
Include adjustability (light position, irrigation level, etc.)