Vishal Srinivas Narasimhan, vsn2, ECE 120
Pratyush Ganesh, pganesh3, ECE 110
Ganpath Karl, gkarl2 , ECE 110
Introduction:
A common problem that skateboarders have is that they frequently come in contact with minute obstacles such rocks that are very hard to detect with the eye, especially when moving in a fast pace. Our goal is to solve this problem by attaching a sensor that can analyse detect obstacles in its path and potentially suggest the best way for the skateboarder to manoeuvre.
Although this problem could be minimized by softer wheels, this would make the skateboard less durable on rougher terrains and the skateboarder more susceptible to accidents. Implementing an obstacle detector would be easier, and far more beneficial as the skateboarder can prevent from falling, or at least be prepared for the fall and try and minimize the impact.
Research:
Although detecting objects on skateboards have not been done yet, object detection itself is a tested concept. From sonar detection on ships to detection on autonomous vehicles both small (e.g. SLAM for robots) and large (e.g. Autonomous Cars by Google), detection has been integral to mobile vehicles for a long time.
Considering how small sensors have gotten, we believe we will have a small enough sensor to attach to the skateboard and detect small, pebble-like objects. Light-based detection
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pebble
http://www.electric-skateboard.builders/t/falling-off-stone-jam/5921
http://whatculture.com/offbeat/10-problems-only-skateboarders-will-understand
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/TECHNOLOGY/OVERVIEW/mod.html
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/TECHNOLOGY/MAGAZINE/safety_shield.html
Specifics:
Currently, this skateboard plans to detect objects that are 3 feet from the
Upon detecting the object or objects within a distance of 30 cm, the sensor will beep and alert the skateboarder that there is an obstacle nearby. Furthermore, it will send a notification to the smartphone, causing it to vibrate. This is in case the surrounding noise is too loud.
The beeper and sensor will be powered by a battery pack.
Parts:
Birdhouse Skateboards High-Grade Bias Logo Complete Skateboard - 8.12" x 32" or one of similar size
GoPro Portable Power Pack
Lidar Detector
2 Arduino Piezo Speakers
Arduino Uno
Challenges:
Would need work on detecting how much time before-hand should we alert user
Furthermore, need to figure out what is the appropriate weight so that skateboard’s torque is not affected, and the skateboarder finds minimal resistance.
Log:
Week of 10/06/2017:
Ordered parts and strategized on the specific implementation of the design.
Week of 10/23/2017:
Made a basic program to test an ultrasonic sensor for lab
Week of 10/30/2017:
Figured out calculations for computing the direction and set up the circuit for future testing.
Week of 11/3/2017:
Discussed layout of the hardware and placement on skateboard. Then, commenced creating the hardware system and discussed code for it.
Week of 11/10/2017:
Created the program to manipulate the ultrasonic sensors and made more progress on building the detection system
Week of 11/17/2017:
We experienced problems with the detection system, primarily because we were not able to figure out how to effectively trigger the ultrasonic sensors. Furthermore, we ordered parts for the wireless part of the project.
Week of 12/1/2017:
We decided to add a 2:4 decoder to our project so as to fulfill the logic requirements. Commenced working on the decoder and also debugging the Arduino Code.
Week of 12/8/2017:
Finished debugging the code. We were primarily trying to debug the decoder after setting up the system.
