Milestone 4

Based on our testing, we have made adjustments to our prototype's software. These adjustments include increasing the overall power given to the motors in every range of distances, and improving the error detection algorithm. In regards to power application, for the furthest range possible before cut off, we increased the power by around 200% of what we originally used. This was done because testing discovered that the low amount of power given at far ranges was almost impossible to tell by sense of touch. For our error detection algorithm, we ran into a few snags where we had to physically reset the device every now and then using the old version. Our new algorithm is far simpler and completely eliminates the need to physically restart the belt.

For the physical design, we decided to include sections of elastic where the sensors would not be inhibited. These sections of elastic allow our device to stretch more, giving both a better fit and allowing more people to fit on the product. We used Autodesk Inventor to create a 3D printed model to securely house our battery, Arduino, and breadboard in the pocket of the fanny pack. We started using a rechargeable 9 V battery with a barrel connector to keep the Arduino and components powered while not tethered to the computer and have had good results with its power delivery and charge length. Four of our ultrasonic sensors were sewn between the layers of nylon and elastic and had wires soldered to their leads to make only point of pin connections at the Arduino and breadboard. 

As a team, we managed to consistently follow up with each other and higherups at the school. We met with our advisor every 3 weeks, and met in class every Tuesday and Thursday. Every Friday was kept open to work together on video recordings or IDE assignments. The team would split up work between the members and would keep track of what other members were doing. While we had to almost completely restart near the beginning of Design VIII due to hardware failures from lidar sensors, a majority of our ideas were kept intact, and we were able to make a satisfactory prototype and receive plenty of feedback from experts in the field. Our team was able to make it into the finals for the Ansary Competition, and we are proud of our work throughout the past calender year.