Week 1 — Kickoff & Planning
Sept 15–19
- Brainstormed initial design concepts.
- Finalized core mechanism idea.
- Started CAD for mechanism.
JPL Invention Challenge Team
An overview
About the Team
"The JPL Invention Challenge combines the skills of creativity, team building, designing, fabrication, testing, and solving complex problems into a fun and satisfying contest."
- Captain — Mark, Adam
- CAD Lead — Mark
- Mechanical Lead — Kyle
- Electrical Lead — Adam
- Programming Lead — Andrew
- Publicity Lead — Brista
Week 2 — CAD & Prototyping
Sept 22–26
- Finished initial CAD.
- Started ordering materials.
- Started planning electronics and programming.
Week 3 — Waiting
Sept 29-Oct 3
- Waiting for ordered parts to ship.
- Started clearing and preparing workshop.
Week 4 — Manufacturing
Oct 6–10
- Started 3d printing and laser cutting parts.
- Cut our aluminum parts.
- Tested linear rails.
Week 5 — Assembly
Oct 13–17
- Cut pvc pipes for water transport.
- Built first elevator.
Week 6 — Assembly & Testing
Oct 20–24
- Programmed the first elevator.
- Rigged elevator.
- Tested motor torque and speed under load.
Week 7 — Rebuild
Oct 27–31
- Fixing damages made during incorrect handling.
- Remaking parts.
- Preparing to build second elevator.
Week 8 — Final Preparation
Nov 3–7
- Rebuild both elevators.
- Modify program to coordinate 2 elevators.
- Make backup parts.