Summary
This week, we faced challenges and learned valuable lessons while working on the Eggcellent Imposters project. After damaging two Nicla boards during soldering, we redesigned our circuit using header pins and a perfboard. Although the setup worked, it was too bulky for the egg shell, so we began polishing new 3D-printed shells and planning a custom PCB. We also tested photoresistors on a breadboard. For the Drain Saver project, we built a low-fidelity prototype to explore better ways to reduce water waste from autoclaves.
This week, i spent a lot of time working with my team on improving our hardware design for the Eggcellent Imposters project. After confirming that everything worked perfectly on the breadboard, we attempted to move our components onto a perfboard. Our original plan was to solder the Nicla Sense ME board directly to it, but soldering such a compact and delicate board proved harder than expected.
We ended up damaging two out of three Nicla boards (each costs about $50!). So, instead of direct soldering, we soldered header pins to the perfboard and carefully mounted the Nicla, a battery, and some tiny resistors. It was my first time handling such small components!
We tested it successfully, but then realized our new setup was too bulky to fit inside the 3D-printed egg. That led us to start thinking about a custom PCB and more compact internal structure.
To solve the space challenge, we began designing a new 3D-printed shell, modeled after the Attwater Prairie Chicken egg. We also polished the surface of the print to make it more realistic.
Before all this, we had tested our circuit on a breadboard with photoresistors to detect motion and light changes an important step in validating our sensor system.
🟦 Drain Saver: From Simulation to Physical Testing
For our second project, Drain Saver, we focused on building and testing a better way to reduce water waste in autoclave cooling. Instead of moving straight to fabrication, we brainstormed as a team and updated our low-fidelity prototype to test ideas before full-scale construction.
We also prepared for simulations and feedback sessions. Although we didn’t begin CNC milling or MATLAB modeling this week, laying down the physical prototype helped us understand limitations and plan future improvements.
New Tools: SLA 3D Printing
To wrap up the week, I joined a hands-on workshop on SLA 3D printing, led by Erin. We learned how to prepare prints, wash and cure them properly, and handle resin safely. Watching high-resolution prints emerge from digital designs was truly inspiring this is definitely a tool I’m excited to use in future prototypes!
This week was full of practical learning, trial-and-error, and progress in both projects. I’m especially grateful to my mentors Dr. Holmes as well as my teammates and the amazing OEDK staff for their support.
Can’t wait to see what Week 4 brings!