One of the most challenging problems associated with experiments on the Feynman Path are the constantly mutating and changing software and electronics requirements. Software is pretty easy to deal with - just use version control. The electronics side of things is much more of a challenge - each experiment has its own specific set of actuators and sensors and supporting these electronically is something of a time and effort consuming roadblock.
I think I have come up with a reasonably versatile and adaptable solution...
Instead of one large multi-function control board, the electronics have been split up into many smaller modules each of which performs only one function. Since they are so simple, each module (called a Steggo Module) can easily and quickly be manufactured by hand. These modules can then placed side-by-side on an inexpensive racking system and wired up to form whatever experimental apparatus might be required. When the experiment is complete, the modules can be disassembled and re-used later on.
All-in-all it seems to be a pretty versatile system. Have a look at the Steggo Module Video and FPath Experiment 007 writeup for more information.
No comments:
Post a Comment