Searching for Stability Weekly Log
2/13/16
This week we successfully scaled down our initial project idea for a quadcopter to a more feasible product idea of an Arduino controlled 2-axis gimbal on a bike-mounted platform. As opposed to using an IMU, we decided to use two magnetic rotary encoders to challenge ourselves in the realm of electrical and systems engineering. Additionally, we finalized a project proposal after making some intensive revisions and created a detailed budget.
We have conducted initial research concerning the connection of the rotary magnetic encoders to the Arduino.
2/20/16
We completed a first design rendering for our stabilization platform; it is in the very early stages of development.
This was the second version we designed later in the week. It illustrates how the iPhone would sit in the gimbal and where our two motors would be located.
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We were concerned that this mounting design would be impractical for a bike-rider as the gimbal would take up the entirety of one handle. However, after some research, we found that the majority of bike mounted devices sit on the handlebar and thus plan to model a revised design after pre-existing handlebar bike mounts. Additionally, we are including more specific compartments within the back slot housing the four 9V batteries and the Arduino to eliminate unnecessary confusion and jumbling of components.
In addition to these designs, we ordered our magnetic rotary encoders and vibration dampening pads and plan to order the batteries and motors once the budget is approved.
2/27/16
Budget approved!
