Week 15 - System integration

This week's task is to design the system integration for the final project.

I started by creating a more complete Fusion 360 model of my project:

System diagram below. Mostly, I'll use TE connectivity AMP connectors hidden behind panels, secured with zip cable ties.

Some key questions to address:

The mechanics related to the bat swing must be very solid, using several ball bearing connections. Update:

Testing the bat swing mechanics during Week 13. I used a pre-made bevel gear design from Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:372530

Update: I extruded and extended the bevel gear enclosure to be able to control the bat from the side of the game. This design proved very solid and nice feeling.

• Display testing and software development have only just begun. Update: Finished, working with no issues.
• How can the whole structure be made solid and stable? Using aluminum profiles is tempting. Update: After all, I decided to use the enclosure, which I designed during week 7, which is nice and stable.
• Clear plastic is needed to see into the playing field. I'll add grooves to hold them in place. Update: Added these to the cnc-model of the enclosure.
• Is 15 mm birch plywood (koivuvaneri) suitable for the bottom plate? Update: Used 11 mm OSB, which was OK after sanding the rough edges and black painting.

The servo and target loop should stand on their own stable leg, connected to the bottom plate. The back plate will fit over and around this structure.

Update after week 15:

I combined all of the individually designed Fusion 360 models into one complete assembly by using the “Insert into Current Design” option from Fusion 360's Data Panel.

Below is an animation of the full model, where you can see the tapered gateway I created for the ball to fly through, as well as the downward-sloping structures designed to ensure the ball always returns in front of the fan. I also added a second backboard to enclose the electronics and power supplies.