YAME (yet another musing on engineering)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the practical application of engineering skills through project-based learning, specifically focusing on building a hexapod robot using 18 servos for articulation. The author reflects on the value of creating projects that are not only educational but also serve a real-world purpose, such as a solar tracker designed to optimize energy collection. The conversation emphasizes the importance of making engineering projects that are both fun and functional, enhancing one's portfolio while contributing positively to everyday life.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic knowledge of Arduino programming and electronics
  • Understanding of servo motor mechanics and control
  • Familiarity with project design and prototyping
  • Experience in drafting and wiring for engineering projects
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced Arduino projects involving robotics and automation
  • Explore servo motor control techniques for complex movements
  • Learn about solar tracking systems and their applications
  • Investigate project management strategies for engineering portfolios
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineering students, hobbyists in robotics, and anyone interested in practical applications of engineering skills to create functional and innovative projects.

jehan60188
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I'm studying engineering. In order to pad my resume, and improve my portfolio, I try to make various doo-hickeys, widgets, and gadgets.
I grew up building from simple soldering kits (radio, line follower, i call it "legos with soldering"), and now I'm playing around with more open ended stuff.
I got an arduino, and made a countdown timer. And I'm ready to do more.
As I was looking at various hexapods online, I concluded I need 18 servos (6 legs, 3 points of articulation each)
That cost will add up!
So then I thought- "why?"

why should i make a hexapod?
it's already been done.
Will I be contributing something worthwhile to the world?
Besides practice in drafting, wiring, software, etc, what is there?
And if that's all there is, is it worth it?

Just something I've been kicking around. I've got some servos to order!
 
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jehan60188 said:
I'm studying engineering. In order to pad my resume, and improve my portfolio, I try to make various doo-hickeys, widgets, and gadgets.
I grew up building from simple soldering kits (radio, line follower, i call it "legos with soldering"), and now I'm playing around with more open ended stuff.
I got an arduino, and made a countdown timer. And I'm ready to do more.
As I was looking at various hexapods online, I concluded I need 18 servos (6 legs, 3 points of articulation each)
That cost will add up!
So then I thought- "why?"

why should i make a hexapod?
it's already been done.
Will I be contributing something worthwhile to the world?
Besides practice in drafting, wiring, software, etc, what is there?
And if that's all there is, is it worth it?

Just something I've been kicking around. I've got some servos to order!

So that's really the point. Make things that are useful and fun for you. If you make a little robot, make it so that it can vacuum your place or something. The projects that you design and build to learn should also be useful for you in real life, if possible, IMO.
 
Thirty-four years ago I had a few primitive silicon solar cells. I wanted them to follow the sun all day long to gather the most energy possible. So I built a simple solar tracker (powered by the cells). The point is the same berkeman makes above: make something useful, something that solves a problem.
 

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