This week, I completed the initial circuit verification and LED implementation for our project. I conducted validation tests for pressure detection, manual inventory adding, and NFC sticker scanning, ensuring that the hardware components performed as intended. I also began LED response testing, which is ongoing and scheduled to be completed tomorrow. A major focus throughout the week was ensuring stable power delivery across all hardware components, which required careful checking of each connection and verifying overall system performance.
One of the main challenges I encountered was managing the organization of wiring while maintaining stable and reliable power flow. Additionally, I had to make minor adjustments to sensor positioning to optimize detection consistency, especially during the pressure detection tests.
Looking ahead, my next steps are to complete the LED response validation, finalize the wiring organization to prepare the hardware for presentation, and integrate temperature and humidity sensors into the system before the upcoming demo. I also plan to implement predictive logic that will help recommend against unnecessary grocery purchases based on user inventory. Finally, I aim to fully wrap the device with a silicon mat to finalize the hardware assembly.
Throughout the process of designing, implementing, and debugging the project, I found it necessary to strengthen my knowledge of stable power distribution techniques and real-time sensor validation strategies. I also had to learn practical wiring organization methods to minimize signal noise and maintain consistent performance under different operating conditions. To acquire this new knowledge, I relied heavily on informal learning strategies, including watching targeted YouTube tutorials, reading discussions and troubleshooting posts on Stack Overflow and Arduino forums, and studying relevant sensor datasheets. Accessing real-world examples and project references online helped me quickly adapt and apply new techniques without the need for formal coursework, allowing me to troubleshoot and optimize our hardware setup more effectively.