Overview of Status of Analysis, Design, Fabrication, Tests, etc.
Built a prototype
Began calibration efforts which reveal strong linearity but difficulty reading forces below 5-10 grams.
Beginning the design of the ergonomics of the device
Performed a small test by placing a strong magnet near and around the wiring and flexforce setup.
Accomplishments from Previous Week
Received all ordered parts and put together the circuit
Began calibration tests
Tested to make sure the resistance in the cable wasn't an issue.
Goals for Next Week (list names after each item). Use specific and measurable objectives.
Test out coax cable (Team)
Work with David Dubowitz on interfacing with the Labview code in existence (Team)
Sponsor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
Sponsor was out of town last week
Worked with engineers in the sponsors office to arrange a time with David, who has a Labview system we could use, and to find out more about the penetration panel and those interfaces.
Instructor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
Still need to test coax in the MRI to see if it's enough shielding.
Used Fritzing to plan out our breadboard and will look into Express PCB for the final PCB
Considering switching the potentiometer out with a switch and different resistors to vary the dynamic range (if necessary).
Comments from Other Students in the Class (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
None
Risks and Areas of Concern
Finalizing the ergonomic design
Improving the low end resolution/accuracy of the device
Resources or Information Required but not Available
None
Schedule
Continue with testing/calibrating FlexiForce (Week 5/6)
Continue testing set-up with strong hand-held magnet (Week 6)
Arrange time to test in MRI (Week 8)
Work on ergonomics (ASAP)
Budget (list amount spent and amount remaining)
$93.86 spent on FlexiForce sensors
$14.86 spent on circuit components from DigiKey
Amount remaining: $491.28
Progress on Report and Webpage
Working on official first draft of the report for Friday
Updating sections of the webpage with initial test data