What are the most significant risks that could jeopardize the success of the project? How are these risks being managed? What contingency plans are ready?
Currently, the main risks are if the stage design will be robust enough to support the tension in the timing belt, and if the sensor array will be accurate and reliable enough to detect devices. The former is being mitigated via front-loading of CAD and assembly to allow sufficient time down the line for debugging and likely slow reprinting of parts. A similar approach is being used for the sensor array. This week, we ran a small scale test to verify the practicality of using hall sensors. Fortunately, it appears this sensing approach is sufficient to detect devices, and next week full scale testing will hopefully begin. Like the CAD and mechanical assembly, we are allowing ourselves lots of time later in the semester to debug issues that will certainly arise.
Were any changes made to the existing design of the system (requirements, block diagram, system spec, etc)? Why was this change necessary, what costs does the change incur, and how will these costs be mitigated going forward?
Thus far, I believe there have been no major developments, other than sensor selection finalization. However, changes will likely begin to manifest in the coming weeks as actual implementation begins. The most likely being the layout of the sensor array as that is yet to be finalized, and minor adjustments to the CAD to accompany incorrectly listed Amazon parts.
Provide an updated schedule if changes have occurred.
Same schedule as last week, just moved one week forward.
This is also the place to put some photos of your progress or to brag about a component you got working.
While I’m unable to upload a video, the cad assembly is fully finished and works wonderfully. I can upload these renders of it, though. I expect there to be some actual photos by the next report.
