2015-04-23 (Th) Cyborg Distance Sensor

Programming for the distance sensor was modified to use a variable as a reference point when calculating output frequency. In other words the amount of chattering from the relay could vary a lot when something is near or far but that variance could be more than a human can perceive. Making the variance too small would mean the user can't tell the difference between the near and far frequencies. A potentiometer was soldered to the analog0 input of the Arduino to change the set points to try to find a usable window. This was unsuccessful since the readings were difficult to control but vibration was sensed.

Code revision

Potentiometer soldered to board

The problem with the battery seemed to be a lack of power. An old battery had been used for testing so when a fresh battery replace it the relay would operate as expected. The 23A batteries do not seem to provide adequate power for a microcontroller and a relay. While testing the relay's solenoid could be felt with a finger magnet independently of the mechanical chattering. A 5V coil may be sufficient for stimulation without the need for switching a higher voltage. The next design in this project will be changing to a standard 9V battery power supply and a 5V coil from a relay for the stimulation. The Power + Stimulation enclosure was corrected but will not be printed at this time.

Files for Cyborg Distance Sensor:
The OpenSCAD files below are not necessary unless you want to change something
To do:
  • Correct enclosure model
  • Determine why battery doesn't work
  • Extract 5V coil from relay
  • Write program to sweep delay timer for 1/ƒ
  • Find upper and lower delay thresholds
  • Reprogram with new settings
  • Build coil mount
  • Set frequency. Potentiometer
  • Construct coil
  • Test + Debug
  • Write instructions

The rest of the posts for this project have been arranged by date.

First time here?

Completed projects from year 1.
Completed projects from year 2.



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2015-04-23 (Th)

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