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ISS Mimic Project edited this page Jul 3, 2025 · 48 revisions

🛰️ ISS Mimic Project – Full Build Guide (WORK IN PROGRESS)

Welcome to the official build guide for the ISS Mimic Project! This guide is intended to walk you through the entire process of building your own fully functional ISS Mimic, from sourcing parts to wiring and final testing. This guide is for the high fidelity 1% scale Mimic, for Mini Mimic or Edu Mimic refer to...

📋 Table of Contents

  1. Bill of Materials (BOM)
  2. Raspberry Pi Setup
  3. Microcontroller Connection & Flashing
  4. Frame Assembly
  5. 3D Printing
  6. Painting & Finishing
  7. Print Assembly
  8. Wiring
  9. Final Testing

1. 🧾 Bill of Materials (BOM)

Before you begin, ensure you have purchased all required components. A complete list is provided on our wiki:

🔗 Bill of Materials

2. 🖥️ Raspberry Pi Setup

Set up the Raspberry Pi with the required operating system, software packages, and Mimic-specific configurations:

🔗 Mimic Software Setup Instructions

3. 🔌 Microcontroller Connection & Flashing

  • Plug all Arduino microcontrollers into a powered USB hub
  • Connect the USB hub to the Raspberry Pi
  • Run the autoflasher.py script to install/update firmware on each microcontroller

📌 Ensure all boards are correctly identified before flashing.

4. 🧱 Frame Assembly

Build the support structure that will hold all printed and electronic components. This should be done before printing to ensure size compatibility and alignment.

🛠 Tools required: screwdriver, brackets, base plate, etc.

5. 🖨️ 3D Printing

Start printing the components according to the project checklist.

🔗 3D Printing Checklist (Insert actual link to printing checklist)

✅ Use recommended materials and settings for optimal results.

6. 🎨 Painting & Finishing

Once parts are printed, paint them as desired. Recommended steps:

  • Prime first
  • Apply base colors
  • Add details or decals

Use acrylics or enamel based on plastic type.

7. 🧩 Print Assembly

Assemble the 3D printed parts together. Some wiring steps (e.g., LED or servo insertions) may need to be done during this phase.

🧠 Take your time—some sub-assemblies can be fragile.

8. 🔧 Wiring

Follow the wire map to connect all electronics correctly:

🔗 Mimic Wire Map (Insert actual link to wiring diagram/map)

🛠 Tools: soldering iron, wire cutters, heat shrink, etc.

9. ✅ Final Testing

Power up the system and run initial diagnostics:

  • Verify all servos respond
  • Test all lights
  • Validate data flow between Pi and Arduinos

Use the Mimic UI for testing and calibration.

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