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Maya’s Status Report for 2025-03-08

  1. Relay ESP32 Setup:
    • Set up a dedicated ESP32 for relay control.
    • Integrated the relay ESP32 with Home Assistant for centralized automation.
    • Began testing the relay functionality with various devices.
  2. Device Integration:
    • Connected minor devices such as a PWM fan, light, and motor.
    • Explored additional devices for potential integration.
    • Evaluated performance and responsiveness of connected devices.
  3. Wiring and Testing:
    • Started wiring and organizing connections for the relay ESP32.
    • Identified and tested different wiring configurations.
    • Determined which setups work best for our needs.
  4. Power Consumption Monitoring:
    • Set up power consumption monitoring to track energy usage.
    • Integrated sensors to measure power draw from connected devices.
    • Began analyzing data to identify potential energy optimization strategies.

Challenges Encountered:

  • Ensuring stable and reliable relay switching for different devices.
  • Managing power distribution effectively to support multiple components.
  • Troubleshooting intermittent connectivity issues between ESP32 and Home Assistant.
  • Calibrating power monitoring sensors for accurate readings.

Next Steps:

  • Expand testing with additional devices to enhance automation capabilities.
  • Optimize wiring layouts for improved reliability and ease of use.
  • Develop automation rules within Home Assistant for better power management.
  • Continue refining the system based on real-world performance observations.
  • Analyze power consumption data to implement energy-saving measures.
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Erika’s Status Report for 2/15/2025

1. Accomplishments:
This week, I worked on:

  • Design Review Presentation: I created the slides for the following sections:

    • Testing and Verification Methodology: Outlined our approach to validating system accuracy, including sensor calibration tests and data integrity checks.
    • Implementation: I included a visual of what our user dashboard will look like.
    • Project Management: Developed the Gantt chart, task assignments, and bill of materials for the team.
      [Include a screenshot of your slides or the presentation document]

  • User Dashboard Web App: I started building the front end of the user dashboard using Next.js. I implemented the homepage layout and began integrating basic components such as energy usage graphs and a real-time energy savings counter.

This image is serving as the inspiration for my own dashboard.

  • Model House Demo: I designed the layout for our model house, which will be used to showcase SmartWatt’s real-time monitoring capabilities during the demo. I determined the dimensions of each rooms and the placement of each load.

  • Materials Planning: I determined the quantity of wood and acrylic needed to build the model house. I have ordered the wood so I can start laser cutting as needed. However, I plan to wait until later in the semester to assemble the model house since we don’t currently have a large enough storage space.

2. Progress Status:

  • I am currently on schedule with my tasks. The design review slides are complete, and I made significant progress on both the web app and model house design.

3. Goals for Next Week:

  • Web App: Complete the first iteration of the front-end visualizations and user input interface.
  • Model House: Receive the balsa wood and cut each piece to size. I will also order wood glue to assemble the pieces in the future.
  • Design Review Submission: My teammate will present our design review on M/W.
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Erika’s Status Report for 2/8/2025

This week, my team presented our proposal to the class. Taking what I learned from the presentation’s feedback, I wrote up an overarching plan for my capstone project. Then, I researched components and implementation ideas. I spent time refining my approach, identifying key technical considerations, and ensuring the feasibility of my design. This foundational work helped me map out the next steps for development.

My progress is on schedule, as I focused on planning and research to ensure a smooth transition into prototyping. If any unforeseen delays arise, I will allocate additional time to testing and debugging to stay on track.

Next week, I aim to finalize my component selection, begin ordering necessary parts, and start initial circuit and system design.