Secret Box Project

[dreadnaught]

Hey, i was just getting into electronics, and i saw something really wanted to make, so i was wondering if i could get some help/ guidance on how to make it.

I was trying to make this. I was having trouble figuring out what type of sensor i would you to determine which direction the box is facing. I think i have a basic plan, ill upload more, as i figure out more.

Also any and all advice is welcomed.

 

[BobK]

If you watched the whole video you would know.

If you are still puzzled, what do you think is the function of the brass ball in the cage?

Bob

 

[dreadnaught]

I understand the basics of how the box works, for example the ball is used as a direction sensor, im just confused about how to replicate it.

 

[BobK]

It looks to me like there are 4 contacts (brass bars) arranged such that a unique set of 2 of them are connected for each orientation of the cube.

A more modern way would be to use a 3-axis accelerometer, like phones and tablets use.

Bob

 

[dreadnaught]

Ok that was my question, i looked up some 3-axis accelerometer. Most of them seem to be made for audunio boards. I was hoping to use a low power micro-controller, so that i could minimize the power consumption, since it's meant to be sealed away. Any suggestions on what microcontroller or accelerometer to use?

 

[BobK]

Personally I would use a PIC, probably a PIC12F1840, but that is because that is what I am experienced with. I have no experience with accelerometers. Sparkfun sells several of them either as chips or modules.

Bob

 

[BobK]

If you look on ebay for 3-axis accelerometer you find many little modules that say "for Arduino" but there is nothing making it specific to Arduiono. The simple ones just seem to have 5 pins, power, ground, and 3 analog outputs. You could use these on any micro that has at least 3 analog input channels.

Bob