I see two things which will help without involving a step backwards for you.

1. Use your exposure to learn the whole project. Take a a few questions to the project manager and design lead, explaining how knowing more will help. That will ease your confusion and assist your work. It also sets the stage for,
2. Ask for an assistant somebody to train to do what you're doing. Pick the person in advance and get their willingness. Teach them perl.

All just part of a plan for world domination.