Overview of Status of Analysis, Design, Fabrication, Tests, etc.
Buoy deployment system re-designed with a goal aimed at manufacturability, simplicity, and feasibility.
Implemented the use of potentiometers, buttons, and Real Time Clock Module (RTC) into the preliminary electrical timing mechanism.
Determined energy consumption differences between Arduino Uno R3 and Arduino Pro Mini - decided to use Arduino Pro Mini due to lower energy consumption when in sleep mode (0.57 mA vs 16mA on the arduino Uno R3).
Continual research of the rotary and linear seal (Parker)
Accomplishments from Previous Week
Programmed the Arduino Uno R3 to count down using the RTC component.
Purchased additional electrical components that would be used in finalized design (e.g. Arduino Mini Pro, USB FTDI Communicator)
Developed a new CAM-release mechanism for the buoy deployment system.
Researched different electrical component used for timing such as the DROK timer relay and compared different power draws with Arduino R3 Uno and Mini Pro.This will also be included in the individual component analysis concerning the electrical system.
Goals for Next Week (list names after each item). Use specific and measurable objectives.
Begin soldering pin headers onto the Arduino Pro Mini (Calvin and Denis)
Purchase motor to be used with the motor driver and the whole timing circuit. (Colin, David and Alan)
Determine, finalize, and machine/build mounts for each major component of the trap (Calvin, David, Alan, Colin, and Denis)
Finalize electrical design with Ed Progue and determine proper water-proof sealings (Calvin and Denis)
Determine a method to secure the electrical leads (drives the motor), ensuring it is waterproof. (Colin, David, Alan, Denis, and Colin)
Sponsor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
There was no sponsor meeting this week but we continued to send him our design updates and he sent us more information regarding the electrical design and concerns.
Instructor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
Jerry mentioned that we should have a prototype for the latch mechanism designed already.
We plan to have this latch mechanism assembled sometime this week.
Jerry went over the 1st draft of the report and provided feedback on how to improve it. Jerry suggested more pictures in each section of the report.
We are currently revising the 1st draft, taking the suggestion into account, and plan to add more pictures as we edit the draft.
Risks and Areas of Concern
Power management of the electrical system. We need to have the device be able to last a season ~100 uses or it needs to be rechargeable.
We researched power consumption rates of multiple microcontroller units (MCU) and determined the Arduino Pro Mini would be the best option.
Programming of the Device that is quick and simple enough to satisfy the fisherman’s demands
Determining the proper battery and motor that would provide the best optimal performance for operating the trap (>7 days if possible).
Resources or Information Required but not Available
Schedule
Develop a working prototype that utilizes the electrical timing system by the end of Week 7. Have all the mechanical components ordered or machined ASAP to move forward with testing phase.
Aim to have a field test (pool or beach) some time by the 8th week.
Project Budget (list amount spent and amount remaining):
Plastic Gears for gear train: $6.99
Metal rods for gear train: $7.99
ATMEGA328P 16Mhz Arduino Pro Mini Module x5: $18.00
Motor Driver Controller Board Module: $9.88
PCB Board Prototype 30 Pcs: $9.89
Amount remaining: $4,247.25
Minor Components Spending:
Arduino Pro Mini FTDI Friend USB Connector: $15.07 (only needed for programming, not intended for actual project)
If minor components are considered in the project budget:
Amount remaining: $4,232.18
Progress on Report and Webpage
Report has been reviewed and suggestions for improvements will be taken into account for the 2nd draft.