u/tinytinypenguin

I am trying to turn a broken wii remote into a presentation pointer. Basically the idea is to make a PCB with the same form factor as the wii remote's PCB with an bluetooth-LE compatible esp32 and gyroscope on it. I have never made a PCB before, so I am learning with this project. One issue I am running into is battery power. I was planning on using a LiPo battery, but have been informed that these can be dangerous. Therefore, I would prefer to use a Li Ion battery. The problem is it needs to fit into a form-factor of 10 x 30 x 50 mm, and have at least 500 mAh. Does anyone know of any batteries that meet this requirement?

Alternatively, in theory, I could use regular double-As and try to use the original wii remote battery slot by putting a battery terminal on the PCB, but this seems very hard.

For people who design automata in 3d modeling software, how do you integrate complex mechanisms with sculptures? I know how one can use tools like solid works to make the mechanisms in an automaton, and something like blender for the sculpture itself. But its lost on me how people combine these.

I am about to enter my second year of a PhD working with a fairly high profile professor in CS. I am without question the weakest student in the lab, even accounting for my inexperience, which feels bad, but I try to view it as a learning opportunity. So far, ive felt like I was useful because while I was the worst researcher, I was the best engineer/programmer, and could have an impact there. I am comparatively much more knowledgeable about the tools we use and how they work. But now with AI, my more theoretically inclined peers are able to basically cut out the middle man and implement all their ideas themselves. At this point, I dont really know what I contribute to the lab and what I should do. Does anyone have any advice?