2015-06-15 (M) Vibrating Distance Sensor

A new instruction set was started for making a vibrating distance sensor with an inexpensive flashlight. Paper was laid down and instructions were written by hand in black and red ink. The purpose was to give instructions in a storyline fashion where the previous steps could be seen in the background but not be central to focus. Long scrap paper was used.

In retrospect the instructions should be carried out one step at a time with different parts each time so that a long panorama shot can be created and the entire instructions can be contained in a single image. This may even include code possibly linked with a QR code. Scattered tools in the background might be distracting but also lend some ambiance to the imperfectly framed shots. Animation could also be used to transition from one step to another.

Until a reliable method of switching power is made these instructions cannot be considered complete. This journal post is not meant as the final instruction set.

All parts labeled
Step 1 Remove Pins
Step 2 Cut vibrator pins apart
Step 3 Solder in the reed switch
Step 4 Add wires to power terminals, Pin0 and Pin1
Step 5 Solder wires to vibrator and distance sensor
Step 6 Solder battery terminal
Step 7 Hold magnet to reed switch and check for vibration
Step 8 Program Arduino
Program text
Step 9 Hot glue distance sensor to printed disc

The instructions were not finished because the switch could not be integrated into the design. Ideally a small magnet on the moving part of the flashlight's switch would trigger a reed switch inline with the power supply but alignment and magnet strength were not easy to set up and the post holding the reed switch was flimsy. Holding a battery in place also proved to be troublesome so a different method will have to be devised.

Files for Vibrating Distance Sensor:
The OpenSCAD files below are not necessary unless you want to change something

To Do:
  • Get a working switch
  • Find a better way to mount batteries
  • Write instructions
    • Make a linkable parts list
    • Draw schematic

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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2015-06-07 (Su)

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