This is the structures assembly used to size up components and design the frame and platform components (grey). This was step 1.
This is the first prototype of CoasterBot. It was designed to be as cost effective as possible, using music-wire connecting rods and 3D printed platform and frame. The point here was to quickly assemble a physical representation of the system so I could shift focus to the logic and control software.
A situation where CoasterBot could be useful.
This is the structures assembly used to size up components and design the frame and platform components (grey). This was step 1.
ARDUINO STEWART PLATFORM
2021
I started this project to learn more about mechatronics and inverse kinematics. The idea is to create a robotic drink coaster that can sense error in platform attitude and correct a beverage's angle to avoid a spill. While there are dozens of lower cost, simpler ways to achieve this, it's the perfect excuse for me to research and design the circuits, hardware, inverse kinematics, and control software in an effort to learn more about microcontrollers and the systems they act in. This project is currently in-progress (and without a hard deadline), so the images shown above include initial designs and prototypes only.
To begin, I found and verified the accuracy of the servo model and linkages from a free source online. Next I designed the two frame components for 3d printing, considering shrinkage and clearances for the servos and the self-tapping screws. After approximating the linkage distances, I printed the structure and assembled it to start on the software phase.
I'm using an Arduino Nano as the brain of the operation, and the control logic is currently being developed. Once that is working nominally, I'll start developing the PID logic and supporting hardware to make the system fully closed-loop. More to come!
One of the fun things about the app is testing it out on the mountain!
A screenshot from the Mac app
iOS DEVELOPMENT:
PEAKS
2019 - Present
I have been working on this project with a software engineer friend of mine to fill a need that both of us saw for a mountaineering-focused gps tracking app. Since we started it in 2019, it's been a fun way to learn more about UX and UI design and the software engineering that goes into bringing a mobile app to market. Both the human aspect of engineering and the design that goes into any product (hardware or software) have always been interesting to me, and the user experience work that I've been doing for it is incredibly rewarding.
This project allows me to put the business skills that I have learned during my Minor in Business Administration to use as well. From market research to user conversion funnels to the accounting of the project, it's a great way to develop business skills more and learn about the needs behind a micro startup.
Learn more at www.peaksapp.com