1. State of the art, project management and documentation

Research & Ideation

WEEK 1 OVER VIEW

The first week of Fabricademy focused on understanding project management tools and documentation methods. We explored different tools, met fellow students, and set up essential software and workflows for the rest of the program. This documentation covers the activities and installations completed during the first week.

1. Introduction to Nodes and Meeting Fellow Students

The first activity of the week was an introduction to the Fabricademy nodes. This session was an opportunity to meet students from different labs across the globe. We discussed how the nodes operate, and the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between different labs.

Image source: fabricademy website

2. INSTALLATION OF VS CODE AND GIT

The next task was to install Visual Studio Code (VS Code) and Git, two essential tools for project management and documentation. VS Code Installation: VS Code is a powerful code editor used for writing, editing, and debugging code in various programming languages. We downloaded and installed the software. from the official VS Code website.

Git Installation: Git is a version control system that allows us to track changes in our code and collaborate with others. We installed Git by following the instructions from the official Git website. To verify the installation, I used the following command in Git Bash: bash Copy code git --version This confirmed that Git was installed successfully.

3. INSTALLATION OF VECTOR DESIGN SOFTWARES

The next step involved setting up vector design software, which will be used for creating digital models throughout the course. The following tools were installed:

• MakeHuman: A tool for generating realistic human characters for 3D modeling.

• Adobe Illustrator: A vector graphics editor widely used in the design industry.

• Rhinoceros (Rhino): A 3D modeling software for creating precise designs and complex surfaces.

• Inkscape: A free, open-source vector graphics editor.

• Slicer for fusion: Slicer for Fusion 360 is a tool that allows you to convert 3D models into 2D build plans with animated assembly instructions I followed the setup instructions and installed each of these tools.

4. CREATING AN SSH KEY FOR GITLAB

Setting up the SSH Key was an essential part of securely connecting to my GitLab repository without needing to repeatedly enter my credentials.

5. SETTING UP MY WEBPAGE ON GITLAB

Setting up My Web Page on GitLab Finally, I set up my personal webpage on GitLab, which will be used for documenting and showcasing my projects throughout Fabricademy. Here’s an overview of the steps: Setting Up the Repository: 1. I cloned the GitLab repository provided for the course using Git Bash: bash Copy code Git clone git@gitlab.com:your-username/your-repository.git 2. After editing the webpage locally (using VS Code), I staged and committed the changes: Bash Copy code Git add. Git commit -m "Initial setup of webpage" 3. Finally, I pushed the changes to GitLab: bash Copy code git push origin main The webpage is now live and will be updated regularly throughout the course.

CONCLUSION

The first week has been a foundational one, helping us get acquainted with the tools and platforms that will support our journey through Fabricademy. Setting up VS Code, Git, vector design software, and a GitLab webpage has been a crucial step in establishing a structured workflow for project management and documentation.