Website & Final Project Proposal
Setting up my documentation website and proposing ideas for the semester final project.
Website Development
Technology Stack
Frontend
- • Next.js 15 (React framework)
- • TypeScript for type safety
- • Tailwind CSS for styling
- • Responsive design principles
Features
- • Apple liquid glass aesthetic
- • Glassmorphism effects
- • Mobile-responsive layout
- • Fast page navigation
Design Philosophy
The website embraces Apple's liquid glass aesthetic with glassmorphism effects, creating a modern and immersive experience. The design emphasizes visual hierarchy through blur effects, transparency, and gradient overlays while maintaining excellent readability and user experience across all devices.
Final Project Proposal
AI-Controlled Turret System
An intelligent automated turret that uses computer vision and AI to detect, track, and engage moving targets with a laser pointer. Combining machine learning, servo control systems, and real-time image processing for precision targeting. Updated to use laser targeting for improved safety and continuous operation without reloading.
Interactive 3D model of the complete pan-tilt turret platform (Week 7 MVP)
Week 7 MVP Complete: The mechanical platform has been fully designed, 3D printed, and assembled with working servo control. The pan-tilt mechanism provides smooth 360° rotation and vertical aiming capability.
Inspiration: Advanced AI turret system demonstration
Key Features
- • Real-time object detection & tracking
- • AI-powered target identification
- • Precision servo-controlled aiming
- • Laser pointer targeting system
- • Safety protocols & emergency stop
- • Live video feed & control interface
- • Continuous operation (no reloading)
Applications
- • Educational robotics demonstrations
- • Computer vision research
- • Target practice training systems
- • Automated gaming platforms
- • Security system prototypes
- • STEM outreach programs
3D Design & Fabrication
- Turret base & rotating platform
- Laser pointer mounting system
- Camera mounting gimbal
- Pan-tilt servo mechanism
- Safety shields & enclosures
Electronics
- ESP32 (main controller)
- High-resolution camera module
- Pan/tilt servo motors (2x)
- Firing mechanism servo
- Emergency stop button
- LED status indicators
AI & Programming
- Edge Impulse
- YOLO real-time tracking
- PID control algorithms
- Web control interface
- Safety monitoring system
- Target analytics & logging
Bill of Materials
3D Printing
- PLA Filament (~500g)$12
- Support Material (~100g)$3
Core Electronics
- ESP32 Microcontroller (1x)$8
- ESP32-CAM Module (1x)$12
- USB Cable (1x)$5
- Battery Pack (1x)$15
Servo Motors
- Miuzei MG996R - Pan (1x)$10
- Miuzei MG996R - Tilt (1x)$10
- Miuzei MG996R - Trigger (1x)$10
- 11kg·cm torque, 4.8-6.6V
Wiring & Cables
- Jumper Wires M-M (20x)$6
- Jumper Wires M-F (10x)$4
- Steel Wire - 1m$3
- Power Cable 5V (1x)$4
Hardware
- M3 Screws & Nuts (20x)$5
- M4 Screws & Nuts (10x)$4
- Washers - assorted (30x)$3
- Small Springs (2-3x)$2
Targeting System
- Laser Pointer Module (1x)$8
- Laser Mount Bracket (1x)$3
- Power Switch (1x)$2
Additional
- Emergency Stop Button (1x)$6
- LED Indicators (3-5x)$3
- Breadboard (1x)$5
- Resistors (10x)$2
Optional/CNC
- Acrylic Sheet (1x)$12
- Aluminum Sheet (1x)$20
- Bearings (2-3x)$8
Estimated Total Cost
$199Updated with laser pointer system. Actual pricing may vary by supplier and quantity.
Note: Quantities are estimates and may vary based on design iterations. Additional fasteners, adhesives, and consumables may be needed during assembly and testing phases.
Design Update: Switched from Nerf dart projectiles to laser pointer targeting for improved safety, continuous operation without reloading, and simpler mechanical design.
Development Timeline
- • Finish modeling pan-tilt base (completed in Week 5)
- • Design vertical tilt mechanism and mounting
- • Model trigger pull system and servo integration
- • Create Nerf gun mounting bracket
- • Finalize all component dimensions and tolerances
- • 3D print all turret components with proper tolerances
- • Use CNC milling for flat structural components if needed
- • Iterate on prints based on fit and clearance testing
- • Assemble mechanical systems with servos and hardware
- • Test pan and tilt motion range and smoothness
- • Integrate Nerf gun and trigger mechanism
- • Complete physical assembly and initial testing
- • Program ESP32 for servo control and camera interface
- • Train object recognition model on Edge Impulse
- • Implement real-time target detection algorithm
- • Develop tracking and aiming calculations
- • Create safety protocols and emergency stop system
- • Build basic control interface for testing
- • Integrate AI system with mechanical platform
- • Calibrate targeting accuracy and aim compensation
- • Test full auto-targeting cycle repeatedly
- • Refine detection confidence thresholds
- • Conduct safety testing and failure mode analysis
- • Final system optimization and demonstration prep
Manufacturing Note: Primary fabrication method will be 3D printing due to design flexibility and rapid iteration capability. CNC milling may be used for select flat components requiring extra rigidity or precision.
Success Metrics
The project will be considered successful if it can:
Reflection
This project excites me because it pushes the boundaries of what's possible with digital fabrication, combining cutting-edge AI technology with precision mechanical engineering. It will challenge me to integrate 3D design, advanced electronics, computer vision, and real-time control systems. The project's emphasis on safety protocols and precision targeting will teach valuable lessons about responsible engineering and the ethical considerations of autonomous systems.