Worked on full sensor integration, debugging, and testing with the motors. This included verifying that sensor outputs (e.g., IMU, sun sensor data, user detection) are correctly read by the Raspberry Pi, processed into control signals, and then used to drive the stepper motors. Specifically, I tested the full pipeline from sensor readings → control logic → GPIO signals → motor actuation, ensuring that the motors respond correctly to changes in sensor input (e.g., adjusting position based on orientation or sun alignment). Ran into an issue where the motors stopped working, which required debugging and rewiring parts of the system. After we fixed the issue, I continued motor–sensor integration and testing, which is now almost complete.
Slightly behind schedule due to the time spent debugging and rewiring the motors. To catch up, I will focus on completing real system testing (moving the canopy) and prioritizing integration validation.
I plan to complete real system testing with canopy movement and finalize motor–sensor integration testing in the next week.
I learned more about motor control and interfacing with the Raspberry Pi 5, building on my previous basic understanding. Used online videos, Raspberry Pi tutorials, and posts from past ECE capstone groups working on similar projects. I also relied on prior knowledge from past courses and projects for some of the user detection methodology.