As the semester for this Technology Project comes to a close, I am tasked with completing a final reflection based on important points that allow me to reflect on my performance and knowledge gained by partaking in this course.
The first point is about the new knowledge and skills learned during the project process. Starting the project at the beginning of the semester I had zero knowledge or background in programming. By partaking in this project, I was able to gain some basic understanding of writing code, C++ and Python languages. Learning these codes helped me complete the project as they were crucial to the functioning of the lane departure system.
Another new knowledge that I have learned is that I am now aware of the many modules, micro-controllers, minicomputers, and shields that you can use to build useful projects that may aid the general public and can even solve a problem.
Closely along these lines, I also utilised skills that I had learned previously that helped me immensely in completing this project as well. While the programming part was new to me, the designing, wiring and hardware building I was familiar with. Using my experiences from the Automotive Electrical and Electronics course, I was able to use my knowledge of calculating basic circuitry and also use drivers, transistors, and free-wheeling diodes to help ensure that the system can function correctly and safely. My technical advisor helped me in remembering these teachings as well and I had even further consolidated what I had learned previously by partaking in a practical project such as this.
I also used my knowledge of Multi-sim and designing circuitry for this project which was also learned from the electrical course. This helped the prototype building run without a hitch or hiccup. The warning system was made within a good time and the right parts were used to maintain optimum function and safety.
Despite the successes experienced, there were still limitations found in a few areas during this project process. The main limitation experienced was my limited background on programming. Being a beginner programmer, my code modifications and writing was fairly basic. The project Raspberry Pi function reflected that with only a single colour detection. In addition to this, there was also limited help available, therefore I had to read and study the coding over and over to get some idea of what it all meant and how it affected the code. This was the main factor that made the project progress slowly.
Another limitation was the limited hours allotted for the course. Had there been more hours allowed, a more manageable pace would result in the the project end-product having been even more refined with better coding.
Despite the limitations experienced, the project still progressed eventually. There is still much room for progression and improvement of the system in the future. Further study will continue on Python coding and image processing to improve the accuracy and feasibility of the lane departure system at night and during times where there are a lot of noise.
Further familiarisation with more electrical products and modules can also be done to help enhance the capabilities of project or product. These include performance enhancements such as an even better frame-rate, improved responsiveness, better accuracy during night or sun streaked driving conditions, and a better heard and visualised warning kit.
Overall, this project has been a very challenging and rewarding experience. A new interest in minicomputers and image processing has arisen out of this participation. Further exploration will be done for this and also the improvement of the lane departure warning system shall continue.
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