Post-its flying and creative juices flowing, amAIRica tackled one of the most tedious processes so far––prototyping. During class, the groups were asked to use foam poster board and tape to trace and cut out various parts of the drone.
The groups used Post-its to remain on track and develop new ideas before the final presentation.
As a refresher, our group aims to sample fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the atmosphere to survey and map the air quality of Virginia. Our course of action includes integrating a sensor, mapping our findings in a 2D format, and, finally, creating a 3D map for the purpose of presenting to a larger audience.
The Post-it activity was a brainstorming mechanism that included writing down past and future plans. The Post-its ranged from “Dan’s house” and “Taco Tuesday” to the more technical aspects of building and flying our drone. This exercise enabled us to develop more concrete ideas in preparation for the final presentation in December.
Meanwhile, the industrial design students are currently working on a display idea. Pictured below is our exhibition design:
Our drone display prototype
Before we arrived at this point, we had to brainstorm ideas for purchasing materials. Our bill of materials is now updated and the items to be purchased are logged on the online drone logbook.
Recently, Dan sent the bill of materials to Fred, and this was forwarded to Nick. Once Nick receives it, he’ll order the parts so we can begin constructing our quad.
When we receive our sensor, we’ll run some controlled tests, and we plan to test our sensor in the wood shop. Test runs will ensure that our drone can fly safely without the propellers disrupting airflow and affecting our data.
We’re not sure if it’s optimal to place the sensors on the top or bottom, but once we determine the placement, we can complete sensor validation to make sure our readings are accurate.
As for documentation, we’re recording and photographing the entire process, eventually embedding the media into Timeline JS and Videolicious. We’re also updating our works cited on Google Docs.
Regarding the actual data compilation, we plan to take our drone to Purcell Park and collect the data there because of the park’s proximity to 81.
By Taylor Kahny