Devlog #4: Initial Programming, Enclosure Tweaks, and PCB Progress

Today was all about making a gradual transition into the software phase while continuing to refine the hardware components. The project is moving forward steadily, with focus split between early code setup and design optimization.

1. Firmware & Programming: Taking it Slow

Today marked the official start of the programming phase. I didn’t want to rush into the complex stuff right away, so I kept the pace deliberate and steady:

** Base Environment Setup:** Configured the initial workspace and initialized the core environment.
Solid Foundation: Focused on laying down a rock-solid structural foundation for the code, ensuring the basic logic is clean before expanding into more advanced scripts.

2. CAD Design: Enclosure Tweaks (Work in Progress)

Spent some time back in the modeling software to iron out the physical design. It’s not completely wrapped up yet, but the main housing is getting closer to completion:

** Refined the Main Body:** Adjusted a few dimensions and fitments on the main enclosure to ensure a cleaner look and better structural integrity.
** Next Up for CAD:** The main body tweaks are done, leaving only the lid (cover) left to design and finalize.

3. Hardware: Polishing the PCB

The rest of the session was dedicated to cleaning up the electronics layout and fixing the remaining board elements:

** Trace Cleanup:** Ran a pass over the PCB design to clean up the remaining traces and check clearances.
** Layout Optimization:** Tweaked the overall layout to optimize the paths, making sure the board is solid and well-routed.

What’s Next?

Designing the enclosure lid to finally close up the physical model.
Diving deeper into the firmware functionality now that the environment is set up.

One step at a time! 🏁

Have you ever worked on integrating a custom PCB with a 3D-printed enclosure? Share your tips or feedback in the comments below!