2015-04-04 (Sa) Self Contained Haptic Distance Sensor

The latest revisions to the enclosure allowed the ultrasonic distance sensor to fit flush with faceplate. Room on the inside was increased so less plastic was necessary. The cylindrical ultrasonic transducers stuck out further than the previous design but this shouldn't be problematic. Spacing of the hole for the crystal was not exact and moving it approximately 1mm closer to the center of the faceplate would allow for a better fit. Miniature machine bolts were used to hold the ultrasonic transducer to the faceplate. 1.6mm x 10mm bolts and nuts were used and available locally.

Ultrasonic transducer in enclosure

Ultrasonic transducer bolted to enclosure

Modifications to the back lid allowed all stocked SG90 servo motors to fit cleanly onto the base. Three conditions were necessary for a clean mount and included a snug fit to avoid any wiggling during operation, easy to fasten screws centered on the servos mounting holes, and a way to pass the wire from the motor to the inside of the enclosure.

Servo motor mounted to enclosure lid

Data pins were soldered to the Arduino so it could be connected to a USB ↔ Serial cable. Right angle pins were used to allow the device to rest flat inside the enclosure. 6pin Dupont wires were used to connect the Arduino for programming. Once programmed, the wires were fit into the enclosure so only the USB cable was visible. Hardware was purchased for holding the enclosure together. #10 (4.5mm) bolts, hinged screw caps, acorn nuts, and nylon sleeves. The plastic hardware, caps and sleeves, were not necessary but matched the white enclosure more closely than the metal.

Soldered data pins

Connected devices

Wires coiled inside enclosure

Hardware pieces installed and lined up


Files for Self Contained Haptic Distance Sensor:

To do:
  • Design way for servo cam to push on user without rubbing
  • Add data pins for programming
  • Refine design
  • Print new design
  • Test device
  • Debug program
    • Get reliable readings from distance sensor
    • Correspond distance readings to servo rotation
    • Using floating limits
  • Take rotating photo of device  
  • Write instructions
  • Propose project for TCP for workshop

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

A list showing of all the final posts of COMPLETED projects.


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2015-03-27 (F)

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