Project 2: Summary and Objectives
The main challenge for this project was to design a system to design a system for transferring surgical tools for sterilization inside autoclaves. The project was split into two sub-teams. The modelling sub-team had to design a container for holding the tools. The computing sub-team, which I was part of, was responsible for programming a robotic Q-arm to pick up and drop off the containers inside various autoclaves. ​
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The main objectives of the project were:
1) Maximize the permeability of the container for sterilization
2) Minimize the movement of the tool inside the container
3) Accurately pick up and drop off containers in correct autoclaves
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Skills Gained
Team and Individual Contributions
As part of the coding sub-team, I mainly worked on developing the code for the Q-arm. Our team's main objective was to develop code for picking up containers and dropping them off in correct autoclaves using a robotic Q-arm. I started the design process by creating a flowchart for the program. Then I worked on developing the final pseudocode for the team which outlined how our code would be structured. In the code, I was mainly responsible for writing the functions for picking up the container and rotating the base of the Q-arm. I also helped my team figure out coordinates for the pick-up of the containers and the correct drop off coordinates for each autoclave. These coordinates were essential to our team's code as they allowed us to accurately perform the pick up and drop off every-time. I also carried out all of my duties and responsibilities as a manager, including setting up agendas for meetings, making a rough Gantt chart, and guiding discussions. authored the final report's executive summary as well.
Participating in the Q-Arm Challenge
Computer Program Flowchart
Final Container Engineering Drawings
Participating in the Q-Arm Challenge
Reflection
While being a contributing member of the computing sub-team, I was given the chance of improving my programming skills in python. During the project, the use of flow charts allowed me to conceptualize and plan my coding process before typing any lines of code. In addition to gaining useful experience collaborating with other team members to produce code, I learnt how to design and apply algorithms to solve complicated programming issues. This project has allowed me to deepen my understanding in the world of programming.
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References
[1] P3 Project Module,” class notes for ENG 1P13, Department of Engineering, McMaster
University, Fall, 2024.
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[2] “Website design: Design a website that sets you apart,” Wix.com, https://www.wix.com/website/design (accessed Jan. 8, 2024).