Journal Entry Week 8

The opportunity I have with this project is far beyond what I originally thought it to be. It seems as though there is a lot of room to work with not only on my designs, but how the project functions as a whole as well. After discussing how I want the track to look and train to function, Mr. Joslin and I discussed the potential of taking the project to another level. This would require having magnets that turn on and off to move the train, which is a little out of my capability range, but always something to keep in mind. 

As for the project constraints, there are boundaries, but only ones that will slightly limit the process. Like I was saying before, I am not qualified to build a track with magnets that turn on and off to move the train, but this is ok because it was not in my original plan and is only something I wish to complete if I have time. Another constraint is the fact that we are trying to spend as little money as possible on these projects. However, magnets will cost money. Even though the price is small (around 10-20 dollars), it is still money spent, which is something we are trying to avoid. 

From the research I have done, I have found a lot of different ways the project can be built. I have done my best to try and form together the best pieces of each and create the best project possible. The best way I can pursue the project going forward is by being a combination of creative yet simple. The project has a very specific layout it needs to fulfill, but how I create that layout is up to me. 

Making my design come to life is going to be a lengthy process. Once I gather all of the materials I need, putting it together is going to take about 6 weeks. It requires precise measurements as well as cutting, sawing, glueing, etc. The best way for me to approach this is by being accurate so everything only has to be done once. 

Testing my device will be the easiest part of the project. With it all put together, it should function quite gracefully and allow me to get through this step in about 15 minutes. 

Evaluating and presentating will not really be decided until I test my device. Once I see how it functions, the level at which it is functioning, and the factors playing into it, I will have the best idea and approach going forward. 

I do not have any new developments or additions to my project at thus point.