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Siyuan’s Status Report for 2/24

Accomplishments This Week

During the third week of our project, we achieved significant milestones in software development, specifically in API integration and functionality testing. Key accomplishments include:

API Integration Completion: I successfully integrated the upcitemdb API with a Python script on the Raspberry Pi. This was a crucial step towards enabling our system to fetch product information based on barcode scans.

Functionality Testing of API Requests: Post-integration, I conducted thorough testing to ensure the API requests were functioning as intended. The system is now capable of fetching detailed product information, including product name and brand, using just the barcode. This functionality is pivotal for our inventory management system, as it allows for immediate identification and cataloging of items.

 

Project Schedule and Progress

I am pleased to report that the project is progressing on schedule.

 

Goals for the Next Week

Next week, I will start with the development of the barcode module software. This next phase includes:

Software Development for Barcode Module: I plan to commence development on the core software that will manage the barcode scanning process.

Initial Testing of Barcode Module: Alongside development, I will conduct initial tests on the barcode module software to ensure its compatibility with the hardware setup and its effectiveness in scanning and processing barcode data.

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Siyuan’s Status Report for 2/17

Accomplishments This Week

The second week of our project focused on the practical aspects of integrating a barcode scanner with the Raspberry Pi. The key accomplishments include:

Hardware Setup and Testing: Upon receiving the Raspberry Pi and the barcode scanner, I immediately set up the hardware to test its functionality. This involved connecting the barcode scanner via USB to the Raspberry Pi and conducting initial tests to ensure it was operational and capable of scanning barcodes accurately.

Data Output Understanding: I invested time in understanding how the barcode scanner outputs data through USB.

API Research for Product Information: To enrich the data obtained from scanning barcodes, I researched various APIs capable of providing detailed product information. After evaluating several options, I decided to utilize upcitemdb’s API, which offers extensive data, including an item’s name and brand, based on the barcode scanned.

 

Project Schedule and Progress

I am pleased to report that the project is progressing on schedule.

 

Goals for the Next Week

The objectives for the next week include:

API Integration: I plan to fully integrate upcitemdb’s API with a Python script running on the Raspberry Pi. This involves developing the code to send barcode data to the API and retrieve product information, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.

Feature Development: With the API integration underway, I will start developing additional features to enhance the usability of our system. This includes implementing user-friendly interfaces for displaying product information and possibly starting work on inventory management functionalities.

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Team Status Report for 2/10

Risk Identification and Mitigation Strategies

Primary Risk Concern: The project’s foremost challenge lies in the utilization of a camera for detecting expiration dates on products. This concern bifurcates into two significant issues:

  1. Compatibility with Raspberry Pi: The primary uncertainty revolves around whether the selected camera is compatible with Raspberry Pi hardware. This compatibility is crucial for the seamless integration of hardware and software components of our project.
  2. Image Clarity for Text Recognition: Another pivotal concern is whether the chosen camera possesses the requisite resolution and clarity for the software to accurately recognize and interpret expiration dates.
  3. Capture Timing: The final main concern is when the camera acquires the image. The user will face the expiration date towards the camera, but there is no cue when the image is most clear / the expiration date is most in view, and when the camera is most in focus. 

 

Mitigation Measures: To preemptively address these risks, we have procured two distinct cameras. The initial choice is a high-quality camera, selected for its superior image quality, pending compatibility confirmation with Raspberry Pi. Should this camera not meet our compatibility requirements, we have a contingency option—a second camera, already included in our Raspberry Pi inventory. This backup camera is guaranteed to be compatible with Raspberry Pi, ensuring our project’s progression without delays related to hardware integration.

 

Project Design Updates

As of the current reporting period, there have been no modifications to the initial design of the project. The team remains committed to executing the project as per the originally outlined specifications and design framework.

 

Schedule and Timeline

The project is progressing as planned, with no deviations from the initial schedule. We remain on track to meet our projected milestones and deliverables within the established timeframe.


Appendix

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Siyuan’s Status Report for 2/10

Accomplishments This Week

This week, I dedicated myself to the initial phase of integrating a barcode scanner with the Raspberry Pi. My efforts were concentrated on researching the most effective methods to achieve functionality. This involved:

Comprehensive Research: I conducted thorough research on utilizing Raspberry Pi for barcode scanning purposes. This included studying various technical forums, articles, and guides to understand the hardware and software requirements, compatibility issues, potential challenges, and best practices for implementation.

Procurement of Necessary Components: Following the research phase, I identified and compiled a list of all necessary components required for the project. This list included the Raspberry Pi unit, compatible barcode scanners, cables, and any additional hardware. Subsequently, I placed orders for these items from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and compatibility with our project needs.

 

Project Schedule and Progress

I am pleased to report that our progress remains on schedule.

 

Goals for the Next Week

In the upcoming week, my primary focus will be on the technical setup and testing phase of the barcode scanner integration with the Raspberry Pi. The specific deliverables I aim to achieve include:

Assembly and Setup: Upon receipt of the ordered components, I will assemble the hardware and configure the Raspberry Pi for barcode scanning functionality. This will involve setting up the operating system, installing necessary drivers, and configuring the scanner.

Testing and Troubleshooting: I will conduct extensive testing to ensure the barcode scanner operates correctly with the Raspberry Pi. This includes verifying scanning accuracy, response time, and integration with our inventory management software. Any issues encountered during testing will be addressed through troubleshooting and adjustments.