28 November 2021
Summary
During my mechanical engineering studies, I led a team of four in an interactive robotics course under Professor Ang Wei Tech. We developed a contactless mart delivery system using Arduino technology to address pandemic-related challenges. Our project involved brainstorming, designing, coding, hardware development, testing, and presenting our solution, which resulted in a successful presentation and an A+ grade. This hands-on experience allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world issues, learn about C++ programming and electrical components, and understand the importance of organization, communication, and task distribution in team projects. Despite the challenges, the project provided valuable lessons and left me eager for future robotics collaborations.
Introduction
During my time at university, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Product Development Challenge, a one-semester course offered through a collaboration between Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Dyson. This course was designed with a strong focus on entrepreneurship, encouraging students to generate innovative ideas while teaching the fundamentals of starting a business. Key areas of learning included conducting market research, assessing market feasibility, navigating the prototyping stages, and much more.
During my mechanical engineering studies, I had the opportunity to take an interactive robotics course under the guidance of Professor Ang Wei Tech. This course, tailored for students in the robotics and mechatronics stream, focused on leveraging Arduino technology alongside other components to develop innovative contactless solutions in response to the pandemic. As the leader of a team of four, I piloted the development of a contactless mart delivery system. Our solution aimed to allow customers to safely purchase items in physical stores without the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Throughout the project, we engaged in extensive brainstorming, meticulous planning, prototyping, and a comprehensive final presentation, showcasing our innovative approach to pandemic-related challenges.
Journey
Completion of contactless mart delivery solution followed these steps:
- Idea Brainstorm: We identified pressing pandemic-related problems needing contactless solutions and brainstormed innovative, necessary, and achievable ideas to address them.
- Solution Design: We meticulously designed the solution's features, including mechanical components, assembly, code, and required materials.
- Coding: We programmed the desired features using C++ in the Arduino IDE.
- Hardware Development: We sourced materials, created components, and assembled the complete solution.
- Performance Testing and Adjustments: We rigorously tested the solution, refining the code and hardware to enhance performance.
- Final Presentation: We presented the problem, our developed solution, its features, and the benefits it offered.
Results
Main features of the prototype are:
- Bluetooth menu input
- Steering and pathing
- Obstacle detection
- Order display and interaction
Key results from the project were:
- Completion of a working prototype
- Successful final presentation
- A+ course result
Skills
Throughout the experience, I acquired or enhanced the following skills:
- Arduino (C++)
- Mechanics
- Sensors and actuators
- Version control
- Leadership
- Project organization
Reflection
Participating in this robotics project provided a great opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in class to real-life issues. The hands-on experience allowed me to plan and develop a mechatronics system that addresses specific problems, and I learned to effectively utilize C++ to interact with sensors and control actuators. Additionally, I gained valuable insights into the workings of various electrical components, enhancing my overall understanding of robotics.
However, the project was not without its challenges. It was difficult to stay organized with multiple people working on the project simultaneously, leading to complications in merging code due to a lack of agreement on code structure or style. Meeting the deadline was also challenging given the complicated project requirements. Additionally, communication was often difficult, as the complexity of the code made it hard to describe and discuss effectively.
These obstacles highlighted the importance of establishing clear protocols and improving collaboration strategies in team projects. Rigorous planning and communication were crucial, including thorough code planning, agreeing on code formatting, implementing version control strategies, and maintaining consistent progress updates. Effective communication ensured that all team members were aligned, and task distribution was essential to meet project deadlines efficiently.
Conclusion
This robotics project provided an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in achieving significant outcomes. Although working in a team on such a complex project presented many challenges, it was through these difficulties that I gained crucial lessons and insights. The hands-on experience not only enhanced my technical skills but also underscored the necessity of effective communication, rigorous planning, and task distribution. The successful completion of this project and the knowledge gained have left me eager for future robotics team projects, where I can further develop these skills and contribute to innovative solutions.