Learning points:
[1] I could have used the animation feature in Solidworks to test the range and movement of parts. For example to test the leg movement in the ankle components. Lack of time prohibited my from learning this on top of learning to use the basics of the software.
[2] I could have used the assembly feature in Solidworks to check alignment and dimensions before manufacture. Lack of time prohibited my from learning this on top of learning to use the basics of the software.
[3] The cardboard models were priceless. It was brilliant to be able to check function even before doing any work on CAD. Personally I have learned that even the CAD world does not quite provide the same aesthetic and tangible value of a good cardboard model!
[4] It was a massive challenge to get laser cut parts. The laser cutters were down at SHU for a couple of weeks and the school I was in were reluctant to let us use their laser cutters for a SHU project.
[5] I have most definitely learnt how to use CAD and CAM and to make the transfer between the two means a lot of thoughts on paper, paper drawings. Ideas scribbled and then modelled.
[6] Next time I would use the fuse deposition molded ball joints instead of the titanium ones! The fuse deposition modlings I modelled were closed cup. This is a feature of the 3D printers that I could actually model the ball joints inside each other and they are printed assembled. The titanium ones were molded separately and they were not closed cup. They kept popping off. On the final model I actually put elastic bands round to keep them on. Great for hip joints when they're kept in place by muscle and flesh! Not so great for robotic penguins...
All in all - A stressful, challenging, time consuming project, that came good - just!!
