20 August 2026

Next Milestone

Since the audio test from this past week succeeded, I can then progress to making an actual story. As this is still a test, I will make a rough narration. Since I do not possess audio-recording equipment, I will (apologetically) use a text-to-speech model to generate the .WAV files necessary.

This next phase will be smoothing out the production pipeline from story idea, to audio, to proper .a18 conversion. There will be no lights for the first version, but upon the success of the audio I will take the time to add light effects as well.

Future Steps

I feel I can divide this project into a few separate aspects -- probably how I should have structured this project from the beginning: Audio, Film, PCB, Case, and Cover.

Audio

• obtain narrative audio .WAV files
• convert to .a18 data
• inject .a18 data into respective Regions (1-12)
• test in dreamprojector
• test on real cartridge

Film

• obtain images for each frame
• measure film wheel dimensions (take note of where the first frame starts in relation to the alignment pegs)
• replicate film wheel in file editor
• shrink and lay out all films evenly around the film wheel
• print onto a transparency
• carefully cut out the film wheel
• Check clarity of film using flashlight
• insert into case
• Check clarity of film using projector light

PCB

• learn how to design a PCB/make PCB at home
• measure capacitor on original PCB
• measure mounting hole
• measure dimensions
• find supplier/PCB etching supplies
• order PCB/parts
• electronically validate PCB
• Check if PCB interfaces with lone socket
• insert PCB in case
• Check if PCB readable/writable in flasher shield
• Check if PCB readable in projector

Case

• learn how to use FreeCAD
• re-measure dimensions of case parts
• replace glued columns with screws
• make case grips easier to pull
• compile a model file
• print the model on 3D printer
• Check empty case fit in projector
• Buy appropriate screws
• Apply black indication square on carousel
• Assemble all parts
• Close
• Check full case fit in projector

Cover

• measure dimensions of label
• design cover art
• print cover sticker
• apply sticker
• cut to allow case opening

It is also on my to-do list to clean up the current understanding of Segments and Regions. It is much simpler than I initially thought. It is literally a pointer table (Segment 1) and the rest are .a18 data with light codes. I should make an updated infographic depicting this.

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