Accelerometer Performance Gauge

I'm currently in a class where we are using different sensors for LEDS. I'm planning on putting an accelerometer in a performance gauge. It will be able to measure G forces (not precisely) on an LED display. So when you turn you can see the amount of Gs you produce, as well as stopping. Accelerometers are based on a X,Y, and Z axis. The gauge will also light up when jumping or going downward on a slope. Currently I'm designing it specifically for the ATI WRX pod, but once I get this prototype going we will try to make it for all pods. I'll update pictures.

http://prosportgauges.com/52mm-switch-panel-pod-dash-gauge-blank.aspx

So far I have ordered two of these. I will laser cut the surface and inlay lights underneath.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mt0MOr7rDPU

This guy sorta knows what to do, but I feel like a smaller version will be much more practical. As well as the point that people who have a space open, but don't know what to get, will appreciate a product like this.

this is very creative, what classes are you taking that allows you to create this?

It's an Intermedia class that is exploring wearables and technology. Except, I decided to steer towards car wearables.

Holy cow, DO WANT!

I'll keep the forum going, this is a 3 week assignment, so I'll post pics along the way.

This is what the face will look like. I feel like since it will be an asthetically pleasing piece it should be open for customization. LED colors and various acrylic designs in the middle for the Z axis. For example, instead of circles your name, so it will be in two colors. Perhaps it may say your vechile make.

i want one with this

Ha nice, yeah I was learning about Buddhism last semester. Some interesting stuff. I would like to do that, but to light up the additional area would be a lot more wiring.

Finally got the electronic parts in. This is the accelerometer I'll be using. Small as a penny. Then I have violet, blue, green, and red LEDS to go with. The next steps are-- figure out the correct resistors to which LEDS, program the microcontroller, test, design a circuit board, solder, and fitment. Of course there is the matter of tapping the product into the power supply and grounding it, but I'll figure that out at the end.

Sick! How practical is making several of these?

I would have to make a lot, to make them. like 100 + so the parts would be cheaper. Right now to make one the price comes out to $40

I'd definitely pay well over 100 for one if it get's working properly and such.

Alright, I mean I think I'm gonna leave open the window for custom LED configuration. I just need to figure out my exact quantities and create my kits for production.

Awesome project, can't wait to see a working one!

So with the Arduino software I was able to test out the board. It works! Now I have to connect the corresponding LEDS and program the software to output what I desire.

The second image is from the brother software of the Arduino-- Processing.

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So far all the lights work. The configuration isn't what I hoped for, but the budget and the deadline are whittling down. All I have to do now is connect all the lights to the right outputs. Then put it together within a pvc tube and glue the sucker in the pod. Then tap it into the power and viola! Accelerometer Gauge. Be psyched, because I'm only going to do custom lights. This is gonna be the first artistic gauge.

its looking really good thats for sure, cant wait to see the finished product installed

Going to test it tomorrow in Kash's WRX. The cord from the top is where I can go in and adjust the read outs and sensitivity. Depending on the type of car I'll lower or raise the sensitivity. The gauge doesn't have a shell yet, because I don't need one for testing. It's an easy fix once I perfect the design. Using electrical tape will hold it up for testing. The back of the gauge has two wires that come out the back. Since the car's battery has too much power, the gauge has a resistor that will slow the current. The out goes to the positive input on the micro controller and the out is the black wire where you tap into your car. The green is the ground. I'm crossing my fingers for tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to seeing this work.

I'm calling dibs on the first production one.

acedeuce802 wrote:

I'm calling dibs on the first production one.

Get in line buddy

Cy are you using Arduino's? Those are on the expensive side for large production...it's more of a prototyping thing (to all the people waiting in line)

JAP_Monster wrote:

acedeuce802 wrote:

I'm calling dibs on the first production one.

Get in line buddy

I'm willing to pay more just to get the first one

realjwin wrote:

Cy are you using Arduino's? Those are on the expensive side for large production...it's more of a prototyping thing (to all the people waiting in line)

Yeah Arduinos, I'm planning on getting smaller processors when I get the chance.

Everyone I'm not selling these in a small time frame. It's gonna take awhile to get a fully functional piece.