This week I focused primarily on hardware integration and initial system validation. This week all of our components were delivered, so I have begun to work on the initial system build and verification of each component.
Hardware Integration
Once all of the hardware components arrived I was able to pick them up and ensure they were functioning properly. For the cameras I ensured that the device was UVC compliant and operates in a stable mode for 1080p streaming. After working with the components for quite a while I was able to confirm that there were no immediate frame drops or device disconnects under normal load. I spent less time working with the microphone array, but I was able to confirm basic audio input capture from the component. Overall this has ensured that all of our components function as expected before we begin to integrate the components to the entire system.
This phase ensured that all components function as expected before deeper system integration.
Enclosure Design Planning & CAD Development
This week I also began brainstorming and designing the enclosure for our system. Since this project requires three cameras for 360 degree FoV, the enclosure is critical for arranging the cameras and ensuring they are locked into place.
Once the hardware components were received I was able to take detailed measurements using a digital caliper. This gave me a rough idea of the design we were going to need. Second I measured all of the cable ports and connections that our system requires. This is slightly more complex since there are going to be ports that are not going to be used within our system.
A couple of things that still need to be considered for this 3D printed enclosure are:
- Potential Sound Interference of the Microphone Array
- Airflow for heat dissipation
- Ease of Assembly
Schedule
My progress is currently on schedule.
Next Steps
Next week I plan on creating an initial CAD draft for the enclosure of the system. This will allow me to get some feedback and thoughts on the design and make any changes before attempting to print. Outside of the enclosure of the system, next week I plan on collecting more quantitative performance data of the system operating under real loads.
