Final Assembly & Integration
Bring all modules together to complete Fabrica
8 min read
90 min work
Integration Overview
This is where everything comes together. You will attach all 8 modules to the center panel, mount the controller housing, connect all servo cables to the PCA9685, and prepare the system for testing.
Components
4 motorized + 4 follower modules + center panel + controller
Connections
8 servo cables to PCA9685 channels
Duration
~90 minutes
Module Layout
Before you start, understand the positioning:
| Position | Module Type | Label | PCA9685 Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Left Side Top | Motorized | Module 1 | Channel 0 |
| Left Side Bottom | Motorized | Module 2 | Channel 1 |
| Right Side Top | Motorized | Module 3 | Channel 2 |
| Right Side Bottom | Motorized | Module 4 | Channel 3 |
| Top Side Left | Follower | F1 | — |
| Top Side Right | Follower | F2 | — |
| Bottom Side Left | Follower | F3 | — |
| Bottom Side Right | Follower | F4 | — |
Assembly Steps
1
Attach Motorized Modules
- a.Position Module 1 on the left side (top bracket)
- b.Align mounting holes on module base with bracket holes
- c.Secure with 4× M3×10mm screws
- d.Repeat for Module 2 (left bottom), Module 3 (right top), Module 4 (right bottom)
- e.Verify all motorized modules are firmly attached and aligned
2
Attach Follower Modules
- a.Position F1 on top side (left bracket)
- b.Align and secure with 4× M3×10mm screws
- c.Repeat for F2 (top right), F3 (bottom left), F4 (bottom right)
- d.Test that each follower module rotates smoothly (0-180°)
3
Mount Controller Housing
- a.Choose a position for the controller housing (typically near a corner or edge)
- b.Secure housing base to center panel with 4× M3×10mm screws or double-sided tape
- c.Leave lid open for cable routing in next step
4
Connect Servo Cables
⚠️ CRITICAL: Verify wire polarity. Brown/Black = GND, Red = 5V/VCC, Orange/Yellow = Signal.
- a.Connect Module 1 servo cable to PCA9685 Channel 0
- b.Connect Module 2 → Channel 1, Module 3 → Channel 2, Module 4 → Channel 3
- c.Route cables neatly, avoiding sharp bends or pinch points
- d.Label each connection (masking tape works well)
5
Cable Management
- a.Bundle servo cables together with zip ties or velcro straps
- b.Route cables along edges or through designated channels
- c.Ensure no cables interfere with moving parts (panels must rotate freely)
- d.Trim excess zip tie length
6
Power Connections (External)
⚡ DO NOT POWER YET! Complete this step but do not plug in power until Testing phase.
- • Connect 5V power supply to PCA9685 V+ and GND terminals
- • Connect USB cable to Raspberry Pi Pico 2W (but do not plug in yet)
- • Verify all connections are secure
7
Final Inspection
- • All 8 modules are firmly attached to center panel
- • Controller housing is securely mounted
- • All servo cables connected to correct PCA9685 channels
- • No loose wires or exposed connections
- • Follower modules rotate freely without cable interference
- • Power connections ready but NOT plugged in
Pre-Power Checklist
Complete this checklist BEFORE applying power:
Assembly Complete! ✓
Fabrica is now fully assembled. Next, power it up and calibrate the servos for the first time.
Continue to Testing & Calibration →