Introduction and Planning :

We started the project by meeting our advisorwhere we introduced ourselves and shared our skills and backgrounds. this helped us understand each others strengths and set the groundwork for teamwork.

we also got a quick orintation on what IETP is all about. afterward we created a telegram group for communication which was super useful for staying connecte and organized

our first task was brainstorming project idea. everyone was assigned to come up with potential projects to discuss in the nex meeting. I contrubuted actively by researching creative ideas that aligned with our departments and SDG goals. 

Finalizing the Project Idea

In our second week, we shared six different project ideas in the group and debated them until we narrowed them down to three:

1. Medication Dispensing IoT System

2. Long-lasting Tomato Powder Production and the Machine

3. Smart Adaptive Parking System

To choose, we created a poll in the Telegram group and later pitched all three ideas to our advisor. He helped us finalize the tomato powder production machine because it involves all departments and fits the SDGs better.

Proposal Writing

This week was all about drafting the proposal. I was assigned to work on the CAD design section, along with parts of the problem statement and objectives. I did detailed research to ensure our proposal was strong and realistic. I also wrote up my findings and shared them with the group.

After submitting our first draft to our advisor, we received constructive feedback on areas to improve. We revised the document based on his suggestions and made sure it was clear and well-organized. Once the revisions were done, our group leader compiled everything and submitted the final version of the proposal.

Research and Experimentation

This week, we began serious work on the project. Half of the group, including me, worked on 3D modeling using advanced software. My main focus was designing the machine for drying tomatoes, making sure every part was accurate and functional.

The other half of the team started the lab experiments to dry tomatoes and study the process. We also secured lab and workshop access by getting an authorization letter from our advisor. This marked the start of our practical work.

Material Procurement and Cost Analysis

To move forward with the project, we analyzed the materials we needed for the machine. I participated in discussions about material effectiveness and suitability. After a thorough cost analysis by the electrical and mechanical team members, we submitted our budget to the advisor. Once approved, funds were transferred to our group, allowing us to begin procurement.

Challenges and Progress

This week, we started building our prototype. I worked on assembling the machine parts, but we faced difficulties cutting sheet metal and RHS. Thankfully, some senior students helped us out, and we managed to complete this task.

The preparation of dried tomatoes in the lab was also successful. Meanwhile, I continued refining the CAD design to make sure it met all technical specifications.

Prototype Completion

By this point, we made significant progress and completed our prototype, except for a few minor details. We started rigorous testing to ensure it works properly. I also began designing an A1 panel poster to showcase our project, focusing on making it visually appealing and easy to understand.

At the same time, we finalized our project documentation, including an e-portfolio and a comprehensive report. I’ve been contributing to these by sharing my insights and ensuring my sections are accurate and well-written.

As we wrap up the project, I am proud of my role in designing and building the drying machine. This experience has been challenging but also incredibly rewarding. It has helped me apply my engineering knowledge and develop teamwork and problem-solving skills. I look forward to testing the machine further, completing our final report, and presenting our work to the advisors and panel.

This journey has shown me the importance of collaboration and creativity in tackling real-world engineering problems, and I am excited for what’s next!