Caption:
Switching our programming setup to a Mac laptop and beginning to extend wiring for the future carrier system.

Description:
On Monday, our team made an important change to our programming setup after Hansika brought in a new MAC laptop that we could use for coding and testing the robot. Before this, most of our work had been done on Windows computers, so we needed to switch our tools and make sure everything would still run correctly on the new system. We installed the needed software and checked that the Arduino could still connect and communicate with the computer. While working on this, we also began thinking about the wiring that will be needed once we attach the dog carrier to the robot. Because the carrier will sit higher on a second-level platform, the wires from some parts may not be long enough to reach their connections. To solve this early, we tested male-to-female wire extensions so we could safely lengthen the wiring without damaging any components. Our group talked through how the wiring should be arranged so that the robot will still be easy to maintain and the wires will not get pulled or tangled when the carrier is attached.

PLTW Step:
Identify Problem and Plan because we realized that switching computer platforms and extending wires were necessary steps to keep our robot system working properly as the design becomes more complex.

Outcome:
By switching to the Mac laptop and starting to extend the wiring, our team prepared our system for the next stages of building. This helped us avoid future connection problems and made sure we can continue programming and testing the robot without technical issues.

Caption:
Cutting structural openings to organize and support wiring in the upgraded system.

Description:
On Wednesday, our team focused on physically modifying the robot’s structure to better support the updated wiring system by cutting precise holes and creating dedicated openings. As our design becomes more complex with the addition of the elevated dog carrier platform, we realized that simply routing wires around the structure would lead to tangling, tension, and potential disconnections. To prevent this, we carefully measured and cut openings in strategic locations so wires could pass cleanly between different levels of the robot without being bent sharply or stretched. While doing this, we discussed how each opening would impact both functionality and accessibility, making sure that components would still be easy to reach for future adjustments or repairs. This step required us to think not just about where the wires go now, but how the entire system will behave once fully assembled and in motion.

PLTW Step:
Identify Problem and Plan because we recognized that without intentional pathways, the wiring system would become disorganized and unreliable as more components are added. By planning and implementing these structural changes early, we created a cleaner and more efficient layout that supports both performance and long-term maintenance.

Outcome:
By cutting and organizing openings for the wiring, our team improved the overall structure and reliability of the robot. This reduces the risk of wires getting damaged or disconnected and ensures that the system remains stable and easy to manage as we continue building and integrating more advanced features.

Caption:
Connecting the Arduino to all four motors and building a complete drive system for controlled movement.

Description:
On this day, our team took a major step forward by connecting the Arduino to all four motors, allowing us to begin creating a fully functional drive system for the robot. This process was more complex than just plugging in wires because we had to carefully plan how each motor would receive both power and signals without interfering with one another. We made sure that each connection was secure and correctly placed so that the Arduino could control the motors in a coordinated way instead of them acting randomly or independently. As we worked, we also focused on organizing the wiring to prevent overlap, loose connections, or stress on the wires when the robot starts moving. This step required us to think about the system as a whole, especially how the motors would work together to create smooth and stable movement rather than just proving that each motor could turn on individually. We also began considering how this setup will support future additions, like carrying the dog carrier, which will require balanced and reliable motion.

PLTW Step:
Create and Test because we moved beyond planning and physically built the motor system while also checking that each motor responded correctly to the Arduino. We tested connections, adjusted wiring when needed, and made sure the system worked as a unified structure rather than separate parts.

Outcome:
By successfully connecting the Arduino to all four motors, our team created a strong foundation for the robot’s movement system. This not only allows us to begin testing how the robot drives and turns, but also helps us identify any early issues with control or stability. Overall, this step made our design more advanced and brought us closer to having a fully functional robot that can reliably move while supporting additional features.

Caption:
Determining the optimal placement for the harness and speaker within the robot system.

Description:
On Friday, our team focused on carefully analyzing and deciding where to place the harness and speaker so they would function effectively within the overall robot design. This step required a lot of trial and error because we had to consider multiple factors at once, including space limitations, wiring accessibility, weight distribution, and how each component would interact with the rest of the system. We tested different positions and discussed how each placement would impact both performance and maintenance, making sure the harness would remain secure without restricting movement and the speaker would be positioned where it could be clearly heard without interfering with other parts. As we worked, we also thought ahead about how these components would connect to the Arduino and power sources, ensuring that the wiring would remain organized and not create unnecessary complexity. This process pushed us to think more critically about design efficiency, not just fitting components wherever there is space, but intentionally choosing locations that improve the overall system.

PLTW Step:
Identify Problem and Plan because we recognized that improper placement of the harness and speaker could lead to wiring issues, reduced performance, or difficulty during future adjustments. By testing and evaluating different configurations, we developed a plan that supports both functionality and long-term reliability.

Outcome:
By determining effective locations for the harness and speaker, our team improved the organization and functionality of the robot’s internal system. This decision helps ensure stable connections, clearer sound output, and easier access for future modifications, allowing us to continue building with a more structured and efficient design.