Melrose High School (87)/Interim Report

Interim Report
http://mode.lanl.k12.nm.us/get_interim1112.php?team_id=87

Interim:

Problem Definition:
Our group has decided to create a system that will allow us to calculate precise points within a system of two circles without physically measuring their locations using traditional means. This will be useful in such work as the location and staking of foundation markers, anchor bolts, fence posts, or anything else that needs to be precisely placed and aligned.

Problem Solution:
Our plan is to use a computer connected to two stepper motors with laser pointers. The points will be inputted into the computer, which will calculate an output of degrees to the motors and thus aim the lasers. Where the lasers cross, that’s where the point should be established. The system will then progress to the next points in the application.

Progress to Date:
To date we are building a scale model with paper materials and are working on the equations to calculate point locations and angles. We can then use this to develop our computer code. We have also designed the laser aiming tripods that will interface with our computer.

Expected Results:
This system will make difficult measurements more accurate, more efficient, easier to find, and will also save much valuable time. In this model we will just set the locations for two laser units placed anywhere near the site, and from these two positions they will use math equations to find where the other points should be after an initial point is established.

Citations:
• Geometry Reference Works: Larson, R. (2007). Geometry. Evaston, Illinois: McDougal Littell. • Personal Interview: Mrs. Kerg, MHS Teacher, & Mrs. Moore, ENMU Math Professor • Construction References: Flores & Rush families • Internet Data: Geometric Formulas • CNC Machining References: computer controls

Interim Comments
Team 87,

My name is Victor Kuhns. I am a Parallel Systems Engineer with Cray, Inc. I've supported large super computers for close to 13 years and was originally a challenge alumni starting in 1994.

I see that your project intends to "calculate precise points within a system of two circles without physically measuring their locations using traditional means" and that you plan to make a real model and then hopefully move onto designing your computer model. While making the real model will be beneficial for your teams understanding of the problem, I want to emphasize to you the importance of using the computer for your project. Take the time to research if any current computer models exist, or to even compare what current models do. Being able to replicate the results from your real model on the computer will be fantastic to see. Keep in mind that a simple approach is a smart approach. If your team finds that they are unable to work on a more complex problem, find ways to simply. It will show us that you have understood a specific component of your project and that you gained a more solid understanding of the problem.

Does your team have any mentors, contacts, etc? What programming language will you be using for your model? Microsoft has some cool publications on 3D coordinate systems. You might find that reading some of these will help your team figure out a way to describe your project in some sort of computer model. Take a look at:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms747437.aspx

I've also found some examples for 2d models:

http://www.piccolo2d.org/learn/graphics.html

A search for "graphics coordinate systems" turns up many good results that will hopefully help the gears turn.

Remember, even showing that you have mastered the basic concepts of your project by creating a * computer * model will be fantastic to see. I wish your team best of luck and look forward to seeing the results of your project.

If in the school year you have any questions, please be sure to send email to the challenge board if you are needing help or direction for your project.

Regards, Victor Kuhns