Progress
Starting the project 16.9.2022
On September 16th was the first time we were introduced to the idea of joining the CanSat competition. An excited group gathered in our schools' physics classroom to hear about the competition and brainstorm ideas for what we would actually want to do. It was on this day that the idea for a radiation detection device was entertained for the first time.
Choosing our direction 30.9.2022
The plan of making a radiation detection device was finalized, and it was time to start working on the hardware. We started listing the required materials and playing around with different model ideas, as well as practicing soldering. The plan to make a standalone receiver was introduced.
Assembling a test can 14.10.2022
Our electronics engineer Janne started to practice assembly with an old CanSat kit. This practice version of the Arduino that was included in the old kit will be used for the standalone receiver yet to be built.
First shell prototype 16.10.2022
Our first design was a bit ambitious but it gave us some very good ideas. Our first try at printing failed. After successfully printing the first prototype can we were able to refine the design and remove some errors, allowing us to proceed with RadCan 2.0.
First draft of code 21.10.2022
The first draft for the code presented some problems for our team. The code was not able to calculate the sensor's for temperature correctly. We didn't know why this has happened, and even after multiple attempts at identifying the problem, the reason did not present clear. We would have to solve this unexpected hiccup as soon as possible.
Getting the can working 22.10.2022
The first Can had presented a lot of problems, and we had finally found out why! It turned out to be caused by our GPS module being damaged. After getting our GPS replaced and getting the Can working our primary engineer really felt the integrated love.
Problem solved 31.10.2022
With the help of some computer wizard magic (and our lab supervisor, Markus) we were able to get the code into a working state, and were able to proceed with testing. The test went reasonably well, and the sensors seemed to be working well. This meant that we could now start focusing more on the standalone receiver and adding more features to it, as well as transform it's aesthetics from a bundle of wires to something better.
Official kit assembly 11.11.2022
Our electronics engineer started on the official kit for the can. The rough process didn't take long, but the adjustments and addition of different components would take a few weeks, as a lot of time went into the upcoming exam season.
Addition of a display 9.1.2023
During the much needed Christmas break our tireless electronics engineer had put together a display for the standalone receiver. We were able to test it out, and unfortunately faced some problems. However, that had to be put to the side since the receiver needed to be properly assembled before being able to properly focus on the software.
The frequency of success 15.1.2023
Antenna and board had to be able to communication together. This at first presented problems for our electronics team. However the problem was solved through arduinos software serial.
Gps and geigercounter 17.2.2023
Our electronics engineer started on the official kit for the can. The rough process didn't take long, but the adjustments and addition of different components would tak
First logo 20.2.2023
Our media manager Mason Lassheikki used a basic design program to create our first prototype logo.
The first design was quite pixelated but it served as a place holder and as a profile picture for the time being.
Outreach 15.3.2023
Helena Heinonen took the original logo and fixed it up making the resolution better. Helena and Mason worked together to make a poster that was later placed throughout Vasa Övningsskolas Gymnasium.
Display for the receiver 21.3.2023
Our technical expert attached a Arduino and screen together so that we would be able to see results in real time on the receiver.
Fall tests 23.3.2023
Our team conducted their fist satellite crash tests. We assembled an old prototype and added appropriate weights. We went up to the second floor of Övis and threw it out the window. We got some good footage that we were able to analyze to see the areas that needed improving.