Diego's journal

Learned from network class

I managed to set up the classes that manage communications rather quickly compared to previous attempts by me. I also took lessons from the last project by implementing the wifimanager instead of writing my own wifi manager.

The main learned thing from this is how I can easily add items to a JSON doc before uploading to an external script.

Extending on this I also gained more knowledge on how to use and interact with classes in the C++ language, mainly on the arduino Wemos.

Learned from the research of users

I learned that getting a user's attention and making them feel comfortable using our machine requires a blend of simple communication and clear design.

First, I focused on researching eye-catching visual cues, such as vibrant colors and bold fonts, to draw users towards the machine. This can be done in the form of a sign or poster above the machine.

By placing friendly and welcoming messages at key interaction points (LCD), It would make sure that users understand that they are welcome to use the machine. These strategies combined would make clear to the user that they indeed can take a cup, they will also be sure what to do with the cup after they've used it.

Learned from the research of Led strip connection

I learned that to toggle an ledstrip it is needed to check the correct voltage. I tested this with a simple strip I had at home, this one required 12V to work. My solution to overcome this was to use the infra red Led to toggle the ledstrip remotely, as the strip was connected to it's own power source at the time. It also had an IR receiver built in.

Sadly this proved more difficult than imagined because of the fact that the remote originally used by the led strip didn't have codes the libraries on the Arduino recognized.

I tried to read the codes using a few simple libraries but ultimately I chose to use the other class I already made using the shift register. I will combine a 5V led strip to overcome the power issue saving soldering work later on.

Eventually I dropped the idea of using the shift register after I got hold of a simple led strip that ran on 5V. This strip required a new method of control which is now implemented into the project. This new method enables us to choose between many colors and can even trigger a simple animation.

Learned from laser cutter

I learned to use the laser cut machine in the makerslab. I had to do this to cut out certain parts and components out of wood. For our project we settled on MDF type wood with the thickness of 4mm and the size of 60x60cm. This is what was available at the makerslab.

These sheets of MDF wood had to be cut using certain settings which were provided in the software but I had to learn and ask multiple people at the makerslab on how to select and use these machines and software.

In the end I have gained knowledge and know how to use the laser cutting machines.