We learnt about Fablab safety rules and regulations. It is important to follow the instructions to prevent any accidents from happening or what to do during an emergency.
Tools and Documention
The FabLab has a large number of tools, equipment and machinery which we can use to fabrcate our projects. In the course of the module, operations of the tools and equipment will be taught.
Documentation
Week 2
HTML
We learnt that html is a formatting system for displaying material retrieved over the Internet. They are used to structure a webpage and its contents. We will be creating our "about me" webpage content linked to our main page.
CSS
We learnt that css describes how the elements should be rendered on the webpage and the properties that helps style them. I did not like how Jake Wright use 'id' to define the different sections of the webpage which he could have use 'section' just for clarity. I instead use 'id' when I want to style specific elements. We also added the remaining links to other projects that we will be doing in the future.
Markdown
Markdown is a way to style text on a webpage. You control the display of the document such as formatting words as bold or italic, adding images, and creating lists. Markdown is easily created by simply typing out in plain text. Although markdown is extremely easy to learn, I however had already spent alot of time doing html and css and feel that markdown lacks styling and layout properties such is flexbox which makes layout customisation possible. Hence I will not use markdown.
Version Control
Week 3
Github Repository
In order to use or build the website properly, we will need to use git and a Github repository. We use the Github Desktop application and link directly into our repository so that it can detect any changes on the site files. We can then commit this to our repository and our website is updated. This is an efficient method if we want to make updates to our website quickly.
Computer Graphics
Week 4
Adobe Photoshop
We are tasked to upload a selfie image of ourselve to remove the background photograph. I use Adobe Photoshop as I am very fond with the software.
Gravit
I use gravit for instead of Inkscape since it is beginneer friendly - Creating vectors can take within minutes.
I use the software to create PNGs and SVGs such as recreating the Fablab Safety and Hazard Signs. However, I experienced alot of lag and syncing issues which has caused some of my work to be unsaved. Though using Inkscape has not such issues. Learning to use it is complicated and the UI are very cluttered.
CAD
Week 5
Computer Aided Design
We use a set of vector tools that allow us to create our design, simulate and analyze the results without actually building or fabricating the object. Once tested, you can then send the digital data for computer cutting or 3D printing.
2D Sketches & 3D Modeling
I will be using Fusion 360 to model my designs. For 3D models, there are 3 methods to create them, by Extrusion, Revolution and Sculpting. We will be designing our very own horse chesspieceLearn More
Parametric Modeling
Parameters allow our design to be flexible, allowing changes and modifications to dimensions without changing any part of the design. Almost every part of Fusion 360 can be defined as a function or parameter.
3D Printing
Week 6
Knight Chesspiece
We are task to model and 3D print a simple Knight Chesspiece. We took a 3D-printing quiz before using the 3D printers in the FabLab. Learn More
Laser Cutting
Week 7
Nametag
We are task to design and laser cut a nametag made of wood or acrylic with engravings. We also took a laser cutting quiz before using the laser cutter in the Fablab.
Music Box
We are task to design and laser cut a simple music box made of wood with engravings over the holidays. After that we install a music crank that plays a melody. Learn More
Electronics
Week 12
Embedded Systems
We learned about introduction to physical electrical components and its connections.
TinkerCAD
We use TinkerCAD to simulate the circuits.
Arduino
Week 13
Digital I/O
We are tasked to program a single button to control many LED states using TinkerCAD and Arduino IDE. Once we are done, we can wire test the program with a real arduino circuit board. Learn More
Analog I/O
Analog signals need to be converted to digital values before they can be processed. Hence the arduino board has an in-built A/D convertor for these signals.
Arduino
Week 14
Sensors & Libraries
We are tasked to program sensors such as the ultrasonic sensor using libraries found in the Arduino IDE. The library has proven useful and could potential save time and braincells programming the components. Learn More
Arduino
Week 15
Actuators
A component of a machine that moves/controls a mechanism in a system. Examples are: Display Devices, Neopixels, Motors & Drivers
Arduino
Week 16
Motors
I learned about motors and controlling them using PWMs. There are such IC called H-Bridges that allows PWM motor control in both directions.
Final Project
Week 17
Preparations
I did 3D modelling for the RGB Audio Visualiser. 3D printed & Laser Cut the parts and assembled them together. Some areas required soldering and wired the components.
Final Project
Week 18
Presentation & Submission
I finished my Final Project along with some small clean ups in the arduino code and documented my website.
