Getting Started (Hardware)
From Princeton Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
This page is currently under construction. Check back for more detailed info or bug Derrick
Here is all the info you need to get the software and start learning the skills to work on more advanced hardware projects at PAVE. In truth, you can forego all the software and machining and still be part of the hardware projects, but it's a lot cooler to learn the tools and how to use the machines and design/make cool stuff.
Contents |
Setting Up Your Computer
On OS X or Linux
All of the software tools we use run on Windows, and there are no Mac or Linux versions that we know of. Macintosh users can dual-boot Windows using Boot Camp, and you can also consider virtualization. If you prefer not to install or virtualize Windows, you can download a remote desktop client to allow you to connect to one of the computers at the PAVE garage. However, there's only one computer currently that can run Autodesk inventor without choking to death, so your only option really is to come in person to the garage and use it.
Get an ISO of Windows Server 2008 (from pavemedia) on a local drive. If you don't download it, random accesses over the network will make installation very slow.
For more help with running Windows contact Derrick or Alex.
Remote Desktop Connection Client for Mac
Obtain and Install Autodesk Inventor
Visit the | Autodesk Student Community and sign up (below the login area on the left). After you Login, you should be able to download and install Autodesk 2010.
Connect to Source Control
In order to keep track of and easily update our CAD designs, we use a subversion repository to store Inventor files. the Source Control page provides information on the various SVN clients we use. Inventor does not provide any SVN integration, so you should install the TortoiseSVN client and not AnkhSVN.
Learning CAD
Machining
The SEAS machine shop course is offered every semester. Usually the information goes out to engineering undergrads, but anyone interested can probably enroll if there are spots. [Insert contact info here].
What's Next?
If you don't have a project yet, contact a project leader and they'll find a project that's a good fit for you. Most importantly, watch your email for when big build days are happening, and come in and lend a hand!
