18.7.15 (Quick update before I go on holiday for a week)

Thesis:

My thesis is coming along well (approx 15,000 words) I have all the data I require now so I will be examining each element individually and cross analysing each section to search for data trends.

Model:

I have created a singular mechanism for one eye lid and it works pretty well so when I get paid I will look at buying some more micro servos to finish this element. However while I wait for that to happen I have been busy putting together a neck mechanism that will eventually be support via bungee ropes.

Feelings

I am feeling happy with the current state of the project, working on my own has allowed me to pace the project at a comfortable speed so I am quite relaxed at the moment. 

Evaluation

It is important to test the eyelids individually so I can work out the range needed to co-ordinate a blink but this should be easy once the rest of my micro servos arrive from china. There may be issues with the neck mechanism at a later date as they are only 30 kg of torque each and I have not accounted for the weight of the batteries and the other mechanisms. This will need to be re assed later on in the project. I am still restrained by my budget, I am currently working on about 40 quid a month to spend on this project.. which may seem like a lot in terms of the equipment I am actually getting for it but I also have to factor in the shipping rate from over sees and the time it takes to 

Analysis

The current situation of the project makes sense, I am happy with both the progression of the model and the written documentation. I feel 15,000 words is a mile stone I have been trying to reach as it is the most I have ever written so its a nice feeling to get this far and still feel like I have been on target with my explanations and not going too far off topic as such. 

Conclusion

In conclusion this has been a very productive session and I hope this string of luck continues at this pace. It has been really nice getting back to grips with everything after a steady few weeks trawling through statistical data but things are really looking good at the moment.

Action Plan

Set up eye lid mechanisms when they arrive, test neck toque using dummy weight. I think they neck mechanism is going to have to take a lot more weight than I first planned but these servos can pull 35 kg each so I am hoping that will be enough.