Week of:
September 4 - Reviewed completed summer work with partner and discussed possible final designs for the vehicle. I drew a sketch of multiple possible designs that combined both what I thought of and what he thought of over the summer. I have begun to work on the alternate solutions of this project.
September 11 - Worked with my partner on alternate solutions and combining each of our final designs into a single cohesive unit. The designs that were thought up last week may not be as good as we thought, therefore we are changing many things about them.
September 18 - Finished drawing sketches of alternate solutions, but have yet to post them on my blog. At this point I am working on compiling a calendar of September due dates, along with a rationale as to why the selected solution was chosen.
September 25 - As of September 23, the rationale is complete and posted on my blog. I am now going to begin working on compiling images to add to my blog and add to my background information. I am also researching the method of steering that uses a rack and pinion system. I am utilizing K'nex to attempt to model this system.
October 2 - At this point I am working on modeling the propulsion system utilizing K'nex. I have made the decision that rack and pinion with definitely work and continue to try modeling the system.
October 9 - I am still attempting to model the system. I have encountered the problem that the wheels pivot freely while the forward rack moves to either side.
October 16 - I am still working on modeling the rack and pinion steering system. I have thus far solved the free pivot problem, but am now encountering issues where the wheels do not pivot enough, which would not allow the vehicle to turn properly.
October 23 - I have finally corrected the steering system model, and now have a complete model of the steering out of K'nex. Now I am planning to finish the rest of the K'nex model by adding in the rear frame and truss style supports. I simultaneously am working on writing testing procedures
October 30 - My K'nex model is now complete, but I am working on scaling the model to match the crane model that was built by my partner. I made the design smaller but then had to increase the dimensions of the system in order to allow for the crane to be placed within the unit. I have also begun the process of modeling the final design using the proper materials.
November 6 - I have thus far completed the model and am now making sure that all items are posted on the blog, correcting those that are not and posting those that are not. I am also preparing for my upcoming formal progress update.
November 13 - I am completing my Auto Cad drawings and making up all work that was due for the first marking period. This includes my mentor contacts, logs, and developmental work.
