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1.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[B]Warning: Nerdy tech stuff combined with manly outdoor pursuits ahead. Side effects may include dizziness, difficulty in breathing, night sweats, confused looks and/or toe jam.[/B]
I need some ideas for a hunting/outdoors-oriented gizmo that isn't already readily...and cheaply...available as a commercial product. As some/many/most of you know I've been toying with what's referred to as "maker" stuff (a do-it-yourself technology movement that involves creating fun, interesting and/or useful things based on inexpensive microelectronics components and associated peripherals) for a while now. I added to my collection yesterday when the local Microcenter (retail consumer electronics chain) sent me an e-mail touting, among other things, a one-time promotional offer on the latest [URL="https://www.adafruit.com/product/2885"]Raspberry Pi Zero[/URL] (shown here next to a 9v battery for scale)...
...for $0.99. This is essentially a computer motherboard, except that is also includes the CPU and 512 MB of RAM....for a dollar. I already have one (and 2 of it's larger cousins and an assortment of microcontrollers) that I've been using for little prototyping experiments, but for the price I couldn't think of a good reason to not get another one. So I reserved one on-line, ran by the store up the road from my office after work, grabbed 4 quarters, 1 nickel and 2 pennies (had to cover the sales tax) from my truck's change tray and went inside and bought a computer. Interesting times.
Anywho...the point of this is that I've got this collection of Pis and Arduinos (the microcontrollers) that I've been learning how to use and now I want to do something useful with them. Given the tiny sizes of the Pi Zero and a couple of the Arduinos...and their very modest power requirements...they seem like ideal cores for some sort of portable battery-powered device that could serve some useful function while in the woods. The problem is that the obvious stuff has already been addressed by numerous commercial consumer electronics offerings (GPS, all the stuff your phone does, etc), so I'm trying to come up with something different. A creative tech solution to some little problem that hasn't already been tackled, or maybe just a better solution to something that HAS been done. The caveat is that I'm no electronics wizard, so it's going to have to be something that can be done using off-the shelf hardware that I can put together in some useful way (though of course I would be creating any necessary programming myself...and that can be as sophisticated as is necessary).
The one thing that I've thought of so far is actually a pair of devices: One containing some sort of motion and/or infrared sensor(s) that could be hung on a tree or whatever facing behind you, with the other containing an visible LED and mounted on...say...the riser of your bow. Both would contain short-range wireless communications circuitry (I have multiple options there) so that when the motion/infrared sensor unit detected something moving at a distance behind you it would send a signal to the LED unit on your bow, which would activate the LED and alert you to the presence of whatever is moving around behind you. Most of this is doable, though I'm having trouble finding good affordable sensor units that can be used to reliably detect motion at the sorts of distances I think would be useful (say, out to as far as 50 yds or so). I'm still researching this one.
So...what kinds of simple, inexpensive little homemade electronic doo-dad that would be of some benefit to the hunter/camper would you like to see made that isn't already out there?
P.S. This is not an attempt at a commercial venture. This is strictly a spare-time hobby for me. Anything I come up with I will be freely sharing with any/all who would be interested.
I need some ideas for a hunting/outdoors-oriented gizmo that isn't already readily...and cheaply...available as a commercial product. As some/many/most of you know I've been toying with what's referred to as "maker" stuff (a do-it-yourself technology movement that involves creating fun, interesting and/or useful things based on inexpensive microelectronics components and associated peripherals) for a while now. I added to my collection yesterday when the local Microcenter (retail consumer electronics chain) sent me an e-mail touting, among other things, a one-time promotional offer on the latest [URL="https://www.adafruit.com/product/2885"]Raspberry Pi Zero[/URL] (shown here next to a 9v battery for scale)...
...for $0.99. This is essentially a computer motherboard, except that is also includes the CPU and 512 MB of RAM....for a dollar. I already have one (and 2 of it's larger cousins and an assortment of microcontrollers) that I've been using for little prototyping experiments, but for the price I couldn't think of a good reason to not get another one. So I reserved one on-line, ran by the store up the road from my office after work, grabbed 4 quarters, 1 nickel and 2 pennies (had to cover the sales tax) from my truck's change tray and went inside and bought a computer. Interesting times.
Anywho...the point of this is that I've got this collection of Pis and Arduinos (the microcontrollers) that I've been learning how to use and now I want to do something useful with them. Given the tiny sizes of the Pi Zero and a couple of the Arduinos...and their very modest power requirements...they seem like ideal cores for some sort of portable battery-powered device that could serve some useful function while in the woods. The problem is that the obvious stuff has already been addressed by numerous commercial consumer electronics offerings (GPS, all the stuff your phone does, etc), so I'm trying to come up with something different. A creative tech solution to some little problem that hasn't already been tackled, or maybe just a better solution to something that HAS been done. The caveat is that I'm no electronics wizard, so it's going to have to be something that can be done using off-the shelf hardware that I can put together in some useful way (though of course I would be creating any necessary programming myself...and that can be as sophisticated as is necessary).
The one thing that I've thought of so far is actually a pair of devices: One containing some sort of motion and/or infrared sensor(s) that could be hung on a tree or whatever facing behind you, with the other containing an visible LED and mounted on...say...the riser of your bow. Both would contain short-range wireless communications circuitry (I have multiple options there) so that when the motion/infrared sensor unit detected something moving at a distance behind you it would send a signal to the LED unit on your bow, which would activate the LED and alert you to the presence of whatever is moving around behind you. Most of this is doable, though I'm having trouble finding good affordable sensor units that can be used to reliably detect motion at the sorts of distances I think would be useful (say, out to as far as 50 yds or so). I'm still researching this one.
So...what kinds of simple, inexpensive little homemade electronic doo-dad that would be of some benefit to the hunter/camper would you like to see made that isn't already out there?
P.S. This is not an attempt at a commercial venture. This is strictly a spare-time hobby for me. Anything I come up with I will be freely sharing with any/all who would be interested.
2.) bluecat - 09/07/2016
As I was reading your request, I was already thinking of the motion detector possibilities.
Alright, kind of spit balling here. After you shoot your arrow, being able to locate it is kind of nice as it is physical snapshot of placement etc. I love the idea of lighted nocks but after fooling with them for a little bit I just decided that simpler was better (adding weight to rear of arrow, batteries not working, cost of batteries, cost of lighted nock, etc.) So make a doohickey that can locate your arrow. Our corded phone base allows you to find the receiver hidden in the sofa cushions but pressing a button which signals lost receiver to beep/ring. If something like that could be done for arrows too, it would be helpful. Some sort of receiver/transmitter will need to be put in the arrow but with this, it could be added to the front to increase FOC. That's just an off-the cuff idea. This might even be able to work with a smart phone. It wouldn't necessarily need to make a sound to locate.
Alright, kind of spit balling here. After you shoot your arrow, being able to locate it is kind of nice as it is physical snapshot of placement etc. I love the idea of lighted nocks but after fooling with them for a little bit I just decided that simpler was better (adding weight to rear of arrow, batteries not working, cost of batteries, cost of lighted nock, etc.) So make a doohickey that can locate your arrow. Our corded phone base allows you to find the receiver hidden in the sofa cushions but pressing a button which signals lost receiver to beep/ring. If something like that could be done for arrows too, it would be helpful. Some sort of receiver/transmitter will need to be put in the arrow but with this, it could be added to the front to increase FOC. That's just an off-the cuff idea. This might even be able to work with a smart phone. It wouldn't necessarily need to make a sound to locate.
3.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
The arrow locator thing already has some technology behind it, so you might start there. I remember it from maybe 10 years ago. I guess it never went anywhere, but I bet you can dig something up so you're not reinventing the wheel from scratch.
The behind-your-stand/blind motion detector would be awesome.
I could tell stories about one big beautiful old oak tree I loved to sit in but which I had to abandon because I was always getting picked off from behind and was unwilling to invest in a Deerview Mirror. :wink
If you like to close up a pop-up blind tight against deer or turkeys, even in areas where animals might approach from any direction, this would also be also be a lot better than what one has to do without such a gizmo.
Also, and again especially in an enclosed blind, a remote "game ear" or similar sensitive mic/amplifier controlled by your device but placed away from your blind would help hear a far-off gobble, and perhaps even indicate its general direction, both significant challenges some mornings unless you stick your head out the window, LOL.
Electronic predator calls allow you to control them remotely, but I don't know how nimble the more moderately priced models are, in terms of choosing your own "music" or customizing your calling sequence. Perhaps there is something that could be done there.
The last two things I can think of at the moment:
A wind indicator to give ground-level data at a location some distance from your stand or blind, or right at your ambush point if you prefer, sensitive enough to detect a shift in direction. Start with a wind speed indicator or build a windsock/weathervane gizmo to mechanically/electronically activate your sensor and then transmit a signal or data.
A camera mount rigged to pan or even elevate/lower remotely while it transmits a viewfinder image to your controller, so you know the camera is pointing in the right direction. While some of the high-end action cameras (for instance) let you see what your camera is looking at through a Bluetooth (?) app on your smartphone so that you can make a manual adjustment if need be, most consumer-level cams do not, and there's nothing inexpensive that lets you manipulate your camera mount remotely (that I know of). But I bet a clever-enough person could build a fairly simple gear-and-motor system to rotate a monopod if they were motivated. I would love to be able to use something like that on the bow of a small boat, say.
The behind-your-stand/blind motion detector would be awesome.
I could tell stories about one big beautiful old oak tree I loved to sit in but which I had to abandon because I was always getting picked off from behind and was unwilling to invest in a Deerview Mirror. :wink
If you like to close up a pop-up blind tight against deer or turkeys, even in areas where animals might approach from any direction, this would also be also be a lot better than what one has to do without such a gizmo.
Also, and again especially in an enclosed blind, a remote "game ear" or similar sensitive mic/amplifier controlled by your device but placed away from your blind would help hear a far-off gobble, and perhaps even indicate its general direction, both significant challenges some mornings unless you stick your head out the window, LOL.
Electronic predator calls allow you to control them remotely, but I don't know how nimble the more moderately priced models are, in terms of choosing your own "music" or customizing your calling sequence. Perhaps there is something that could be done there.
The last two things I can think of at the moment:
A wind indicator to give ground-level data at a location some distance from your stand or blind, or right at your ambush point if you prefer, sensitive enough to detect a shift in direction. Start with a wind speed indicator or build a windsock/weathervane gizmo to mechanically/electronically activate your sensor and then transmit a signal or data.
A camera mount rigged to pan or even elevate/lower remotely while it transmits a viewfinder image to your controller, so you know the camera is pointing in the right direction. While some of the high-end action cameras (for instance) let you see what your camera is looking at through a Bluetooth (?) app on your smartphone so that you can make a manual adjustment if need be, most consumer-level cams do not, and there's nothing inexpensive that lets you manipulate your camera mount remotely (that I know of). But I bet a clever-enough person could build a fairly simple gear-and-motor system to rotate a monopod if they were motivated. I would love to be able to use something like that on the bow of a small boat, say.
4.) bluecat - 09/07/2016
Presumably, one should know the general area their arrow is located. So your device has a row of led lights. As the strength of the signal increases more and more led lights are recruited. Your unit could be duct taped to a limb or some long telescopic pole (not CrookedEye) and swept through the area.
So many of arrows I lose get under the prairie grass and never found.
So many of arrows I lose get under the prairie grass and never found.
5.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=bluecat;43639]As I was reading your request, I was already thinking of the motion detector possibilities.
Alright, kind of spit balling here. After you shoot your arrow, being able to locate it is kind of nice as it is physical snapshot of placement etc. I love the idea of lighted nocks but after fooling with them for a little bit I just decided that simpler was better (adding weight to rear of arrow, batteries not working, cost of batteries, cost of lighted nock, etc.) So make a doohickey that can locate your arrow. Our corded phone base allows you to find the receiver hidden in the sofa cushions but pressing a button which signals lost receiver to beep/ring. If something like that could be done for arrows too, it would be helpful. Some sort of receiver/transmitter will need to be put in the arrow but with this, it could be added to the front to increase FOC. That's just an off-the cuff idea. This might even be able to work with a smart phone. It wouldn't necessarily need to make a sound to locate.[/QUOTE]
That'd definitely be useful. The problem is finding any existing components that would be small enough to fit inside of the shaft, including batteries (with which you'd still have the same issues that you listed above.) Also, the hardware would pretty much have to be implemented in/near the nock in order to facilitate toggling power. You couldn't leave it on all the time, and any auto-activation mechanism (by detection of acceleration, for instance) would further add to the complexity, cost and bulk. I don't even know if there are accelerometers available to the hobbyist that are that small.
I like the way you're thinking though, and maybe the problems I've identified are solvable and I just haven't given them enough thought.
Alright, kind of spit balling here. After you shoot your arrow, being able to locate it is kind of nice as it is physical snapshot of placement etc. I love the idea of lighted nocks but after fooling with them for a little bit I just decided that simpler was better (adding weight to rear of arrow, batteries not working, cost of batteries, cost of lighted nock, etc.) So make a doohickey that can locate your arrow. Our corded phone base allows you to find the receiver hidden in the sofa cushions but pressing a button which signals lost receiver to beep/ring. If something like that could be done for arrows too, it would be helpful. Some sort of receiver/transmitter will need to be put in the arrow but with this, it could be added to the front to increase FOC. That's just an off-the cuff idea. This might even be able to work with a smart phone. It wouldn't necessarily need to make a sound to locate.[/QUOTE]
That'd definitely be useful. The problem is finding any existing components that would be small enough to fit inside of the shaft, including batteries (with which you'd still have the same issues that you listed above.) Also, the hardware would pretty much have to be implemented in/near the nock in order to facilitate toggling power. You couldn't leave it on all the time, and any auto-activation mechanism (by detection of acceleration, for instance) would further add to the complexity, cost and bulk. I don't even know if there are accelerometers available to the hobbyist that are that small.
I like the way you're thinking though, and maybe the problems I've identified are solvable and I just haven't given them enough thought.
6.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=bluecat;43641]Presumably, one should know the general area their arrow is located. So your device has a row of led lights. As the strength of the signal increases more and more led lights are recruited. Your unit could be duct taped to a limb or some long telescopic pole (not CrookedEye) and swept through the area.
So many of arrows I lose get under the prairie grass and never found.[/QUOTE]
I see what you did there. :-)
So many of arrows I lose get under the prairie grass and never found.[/QUOTE]
I see what you did there. :-)
7.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]The behind-your-stand/blind motion detector would be awesome.[/quote]
I'm glad to hear someone else thinks that would be handy. I've been busted by deer from behind quite a few times, and each time I always thought that if I knew they were approaching I could have frozen and been ready when they walked past me.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]Also, and again especially in an enclosed blind, a remote "game ear" or similar sensitive mic/amplifier controlled by your device but placed away from your blind would help hear a far-off gobble, and perhaps even indicate its general direction, both significant challenges some mornings unless you stick your head out the window, LOL.[/quote]
Determining direction with a simple and inexpensive setup would be more challenging, as I think it would likely require some sort of triangulation (or something similar). But I'm going to do some Googling of the maker forums and see if someone hasn't already cracked that nut.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]Electronic predator calls allow you to control them remotely, but I don't know how nimble the more moderately priced models are, in terms of choosing your own "music" or customizing your calling sequence. Perhaps there is something that could be done there.[/quote]
This one sounds quite doable. I like it.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]The last two things I can think of at the moment:
A wind indicator to give ground-level data at a location some distance from your stand or blind, or right at your ambush point if you prefer, sensitive enough to detect a shift in direction. Start with a wind speed indicator or build a windsock/weathervane gizmo to mechanically/electronically activate your sensor and then transmit a signal or data.[/quote]
I suspect this sort of thing already exists, though I can't say for sure. I just seem to recall seeing something like it. Let me look into it and see if I'm digging up a false memory.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]A camera mount rigged to pan or even elevate/lower remotely while it transmits a viewfinder image to your controller, so you know the camera is pointing in the right direction. While some of the high-end action cameras (for instance) let you see what your camera is looking at through a Bluetooth (?) app on your smartphone so that you can make a manual adjustment if need be, most consumer-level cams do not, and there's nothing inexpensive that lets you manipulate your camera mount remotely (that I know of). But I bet a clever-enough person could build a fairly simple gear-and-motor system to rotate a monopod if they were motivated. I would love to be able to use something like that on the bow of a small boat, say.[/QUOTE]
OK, that one's pretty ambitious. Maybe after I have something simpler successfully accomplished and under my belt. :-)
I'm glad to hear someone else thinks that would be handy. I've been busted by deer from behind quite a few times, and each time I always thought that if I knew they were approaching I could have frozen and been ready when they walked past me.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]Also, and again especially in an enclosed blind, a remote "game ear" or similar sensitive mic/amplifier controlled by your device but placed away from your blind would help hear a far-off gobble, and perhaps even indicate its general direction, both significant challenges some mornings unless you stick your head out the window, LOL.[/quote]
Determining direction with a simple and inexpensive setup would be more challenging, as I think it would likely require some sort of triangulation (or something similar). But I'm going to do some Googling of the maker forums and see if someone hasn't already cracked that nut.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]Electronic predator calls allow you to control them remotely, but I don't know how nimble the more moderately priced models are, in terms of choosing your own "music" or customizing your calling sequence. Perhaps there is something that could be done there.[/quote]
This one sounds quite doable. I like it.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]The last two things I can think of at the moment:
A wind indicator to give ground-level data at a location some distance from your stand or blind, or right at your ambush point if you prefer, sensitive enough to detect a shift in direction. Start with a wind speed indicator or build a windsock/weathervane gizmo to mechanically/electronically activate your sensor and then transmit a signal or data.[/quote]
I suspect this sort of thing already exists, though I can't say for sure. I just seem to recall seeing something like it. Let me look into it and see if I'm digging up a false memory.
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43640]A camera mount rigged to pan or even elevate/lower remotely while it transmits a viewfinder image to your controller, so you know the camera is pointing in the right direction. While some of the high-end action cameras (for instance) let you see what your camera is looking at through a Bluetooth (?) app on your smartphone so that you can make a manual adjustment if need be, most consumer-level cams do not, and there's nothing inexpensive that lets you manipulate your camera mount remotely (that I know of). But I bet a clever-enough person could build a fairly simple gear-and-motor system to rotate a monopod if they were motivated. I would love to be able to use something like that on the bow of a small boat, say.[/QUOTE]
OK, that one's pretty ambitious. Maybe after I have something simpler successfully accomplished and under my belt. :-)
8.) Jon - 09/07/2016
OK, spilling the beans here so you can be the next gazillionaire.............
a spinoff of the arrow locator but taking it up about 10 notches:
a very tiny microchip attached to a barbed "hook" that hangs onto your broadhead. Once the broadhead enter the body of an animal, the barbed hook with the microchip attaches itself to the animal. Now, your processor can be used to track the microchip on the animal ending any tracking problems you ever had with lack of blood etc.
Simple to do but a little more difficult to do it while keeping it very light weight.
a spinoff of the arrow locator but taking it up about 10 notches:
a very tiny microchip attached to a barbed "hook" that hangs onto your broadhead. Once the broadhead enter the body of an animal, the barbed hook with the microchip attaches itself to the animal. Now, your processor can be used to track the microchip on the animal ending any tracking problems you ever had with lack of blood etc.
Simple to do but a little more difficult to do it while keeping it very light weight.
9.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=DParker;43644]
Determining direction with a simple and inexpensive setup would be more challenging, as I think it would likely require some sort of triangulation (or something similar). But I'm going to do some Googling of the maker forums and see if someone hasn't already cracked that nut.
[/QUOTE]
I was thinking maybe set up a base with 4 directional mics in a NSEW pattern if that could be done logistically.The mic that pics up the sound best transmits a signal indicating the mic letter or corresponding number or location on the base (led display in the pattern of a cross).
Determining direction with a simple and inexpensive setup would be more challenging, as I think it would likely require some sort of triangulation (or something similar). But I'm going to do some Googling of the maker forums and see if someone hasn't already cracked that nut.
[/QUOTE]
I was thinking maybe set up a base with 4 directional mics in a NSEW pattern if that could be done logistically.The mic that pics up the sound best transmits a signal indicating the mic letter or corresponding number or location on the base (led display in the pattern of a cross).
10.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Jon;43645]OK, spilling the beans here so you can be the next gazillionaire.............
a spinoff of the arrow locator but taking it up about 10 notches:
a very tiny microchip attached to a barbed "hook" that hangs onto your broadhead. Once the broadhead enter the body of an animal, the barbed hook with the microchip attaches itself to the animal. Now, your processor can be used to track the microchip on the animal ending any tracking problems you ever had with lack of blood etc.
Simple to do but a little more difficult to do it while keeping it very light weight.[/QUOTE]
That would be awesome, and [I]would[/I] likely provide some nice disposable income if I could solve the many technical problems (and likely regulatory issues involved in tagging game with electronics) I see with it and pull it off. If I do I'll cut you in, or give you first crack at a distributorship or something. :wink
a spinoff of the arrow locator but taking it up about 10 notches:
a very tiny microchip attached to a barbed "hook" that hangs onto your broadhead. Once the broadhead enter the body of an animal, the barbed hook with the microchip attaches itself to the animal. Now, your processor can be used to track the microchip on the animal ending any tracking problems you ever had with lack of blood etc.
Simple to do but a little more difficult to do it while keeping it very light weight.[/QUOTE]
That would be awesome, and [I]would[/I] likely provide some nice disposable income if I could solve the many technical problems (and likely regulatory issues involved in tagging game with electronics) I see with it and pull it off. If I do I'll cut you in, or give you first crack at a distributorship or something. :wink
11.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43646]I was thinking maybe set up a base with 4 directional mics in a NSEW pattern if that could be done logistically.The mic that pics up the sound best transmits a signal indicating the mic letter or corresponding number or location on the base (led display in the pattern of a cross).[/QUOTE]
So we're talking either some sort of pole stuck in the ground in the middle of a field/meadow/clearing/whatever, or 4 separate devices mounted on 4 different sides of a tree?
So we're talking either some sort of pole stuck in the ground in the middle of a field/meadow/clearing/whatever, or 4 separate devices mounted on 4 different sides of a tree?
12.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
I was thinking more along the lines of a pole. A painter's pole is pretty sturdy, and since it can telescope, very portable.
A flat base on the ground might be a less efficient, but worth considering some places. Base materials could be wood, a large synthetic cutting board (with handle! LOL) or marine starboard. The beauty of starboard is that you can get it cut to size and easily work it with common woodworking tools.
A flat base on the ground might be a less efficient, but worth considering some places. Base materials could be wood, a large synthetic cutting board (with handle! LOL) or marine starboard. The beauty of starboard is that you can get it cut to size and easily work it with common woodworking tools.
13.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43649]I was thinking more along the lines of a pole. A painter's pole is pretty sturdy, and since it can telescope, very portable.
A flat base on the ground might be a less efficient, but worth considering some places. Base materials could be wood, a large synthetic cutting board (with handle! LOL) or marine starboard. The beauty of starboard is that you can get it cut to size and easily work it with common woodworking tools.[/QUOTE]
OK, I'm with you. It'd be easy to attach some rudimentary camo to it as well (just a few artificial branches here and there so as to make it resemble a sickly little sapling or something.)
It could use an app on your phone as the output medium, but having to leave your screen active all the time would drain your battery pretty quickly. Better to go with a simple little hand-held box with just 4 LEDs arranged in a square/diamond, each corresponding to one of the sound sensors, and lighting up whenever that sensor detects something. Maybe even vary the brightness or color of the LED based on the intensity of the detected sound.
Ditching the phone and rolling your own receiver/display also gives you wireless communications options beyond just WiFi and Bluetooth.
ETA: Also, with something that big (camouflaged pole stuck in the ground) you could throw on some additional type(s) of senors if you wanted to without any real difficulty. Say, motion sensors in all four directions as well (assuming I find one that will work over the aforementioned useful range). Of course we're kind of quickly getting into "at some point you're not really hunting anymore" territory here.
A flat base on the ground might be a less efficient, but worth considering some places. Base materials could be wood, a large synthetic cutting board (with handle! LOL) or marine starboard. The beauty of starboard is that you can get it cut to size and easily work it with common woodworking tools.[/QUOTE]
OK, I'm with you. It'd be easy to attach some rudimentary camo to it as well (just a few artificial branches here and there so as to make it resemble a sickly little sapling or something.)
It could use an app on your phone as the output medium, but having to leave your screen active all the time would drain your battery pretty quickly. Better to go with a simple little hand-held box with just 4 LEDs arranged in a square/diamond, each corresponding to one of the sound sensors, and lighting up whenever that sensor detects something. Maybe even vary the brightness or color of the LED based on the intensity of the detected sound.
Ditching the phone and rolling your own receiver/display also gives you wireless communications options beyond just WiFi and Bluetooth.
ETA: Also, with something that big (camouflaged pole stuck in the ground) you could throw on some additional type(s) of senors if you wanted to without any real difficulty. Say, motion sensors in all four directions as well (assuming I find one that will work over the aforementioned useful range). Of course we're kind of quickly getting into "at some point you're not really hunting anymore" territory here.
14.) bluecat - 09/07/2016
Okay, this project is to get your feet wet. Kind of like the chemistry experiment in 8th grade where you add vinegar and baking soda together.
Create a small handheld device that triggers another device with LED's and or sound. You call this the BS detector and you place it on the dashboard with velcro when you crawl in your buddies truck. You tell him you just got a BS detector and would he mind if you test it out. It intermittently flashes to indicate that it is on (power it with a 9V). Now unbeknownst to your buddy is the fact that you actually control the dashboard device by your unit carefully hidden in your pocket. As he starts in about how big all the deer he shot were etc. you press a button on your device that signals the other device to make a beep sound and flash some LED's. You could even make it touch sensitive or some sort of rheostat where you can control volume and or flashing light frequency. Fun for all ages. (8-80)
Create a small handheld device that triggers another device with LED's and or sound. You call this the BS detector and you place it on the dashboard with velcro when you crawl in your buddies truck. You tell him you just got a BS detector and would he mind if you test it out. It intermittently flashes to indicate that it is on (power it with a 9V). Now unbeknownst to your buddy is the fact that you actually control the dashboard device by your unit carefully hidden in your pocket. As he starts in about how big all the deer he shot were etc. you press a button on your device that signals the other device to make a beep sound and flash some LED's. You could even make it touch sensitive or some sort of rheostat where you can control volume and or flashing light frequency. Fun for all ages. (8-80)
15.) bluecat - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Swamp Fox;43646]I was thinking maybe set up a base with 4 directional mics in a NSEW pattern if that could be done logistically.The mic that pics up the sound best transmits a signal indicating the mic letter or corresponding number or location on the base (led display in the pattern of a cross).[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE=DParker;43648]So we're talking either some sort of pole stuck in the ground in the middle of a field/meadow/clearing/whatever, or 4 separate devices mounted on 4 different sides of a tree?[/QUOTE]
This is what they use in "Finding Bigfoot"
[QUOTE=DParker;43648]So we're talking either some sort of pole stuck in the ground in the middle of a field/meadow/clearing/whatever, or 4 separate devices mounted on 4 different sides of a tree?[/QUOTE]
This is what they use in "Finding Bigfoot"
16.) bluecat - 09/07/2016
You'll have to have a trailer converted to a command module filled with expensive equipment that goes "bing" :wink and someone to constantly monitor and analyze the data streaming in.
17.) Jon - 09/07/2016
We use a very similar technology in aircraft called TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System). Aircraft have a directional antenna with 4 quadrants each scanning 90deg segments simultaneously. As they pick up another aircraft in the quadrant, they receive the associated code of that aircraft and process aircraft size, direction, speed and altitude. After processing the information and tracking it, the two (or more) aircraft are able to make decisions on maneuvers to avoid one another using the data received.
Very simple technology and you could use it with your idea. If a buck came in from your 6 o'clock position, you could track his location, closing rate, size and direction. If it's a monster buck, 4 lights would shine but if it's a fawn, only one light would shine. You could know without even turning your head if you need to draw your bow or not!
Hell yea, build it brother!
Very simple technology and you could use it with your idea. If a buck came in from your 6 o'clock position, you could track his location, closing rate, size and direction. If it's a monster buck, 4 lights would shine but if it's a fawn, only one light would shine. You could know without even turning your head if you need to draw your bow or not!
Hell yea, build it brother!
18.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
Here's some additional info that didn't make it into my last post somehow:
Painter's poles that I can recommend: Shurline. You can find them at Lowe's or Home Depot or Amazon.
[url]http://www.shurline.com/products/detail/prodid/82[/url]
Mount a spike to the handle (maybe a sharpened surf-fishing spike) if you want to drive it into the ground.
You can find a starboard provider on the net. I can give you one or two names of people I've used if it comes to that.
You could also mount the painter's pole in a fishing rod tube mounted to the base plate if you wanted the mics up off the ground and you don't like the spike. See Scotty for tubes and bases. I know from experience a 1.5 inch Ram ball will probably be insufficient for the weight unless the mics are tiny, though Ram makes a perfect rod tube in 1.5. Their two biggest balls will handle a good bit of weight, and a high-torque wrench is available for the 2.25 inch version (second biggest ball). You'd be on your own to fashion a tube or tube base or other holder for the pole, though, because I know of no pre-fab rod tubes that work with anything bigger than the 1.5-inch ball.
The Scotty mounts use posts rather than balls, so they may be less susceptible to flopping if overloaded.
[url]http://www.rammount.com/part/RAM-119[/url]
[url]http://www.rammount.com/part/RAM-KNOB9HU[/url]
[url]http://www.scotty.com/fishing-gear-equipment/rod-holders/RocketLauncher.htm[/url]
Painter's poles that I can recommend: Shurline. You can find them at Lowe's or Home Depot or Amazon.
[url]http://www.shurline.com/products/detail/prodid/82[/url]
Mount a spike to the handle (maybe a sharpened surf-fishing spike) if you want to drive it into the ground.
You can find a starboard provider on the net. I can give you one or two names of people I've used if it comes to that.
You could also mount the painter's pole in a fishing rod tube mounted to the base plate if you wanted the mics up off the ground and you don't like the spike. See Scotty for tubes and bases. I know from experience a 1.5 inch Ram ball will probably be insufficient for the weight unless the mics are tiny, though Ram makes a perfect rod tube in 1.5. Their two biggest balls will handle a good bit of weight, and a high-torque wrench is available for the 2.25 inch version (second biggest ball). You'd be on your own to fashion a tube or tube base or other holder for the pole, though, because I know of no pre-fab rod tubes that work with anything bigger than the 1.5-inch ball.
The Scotty mounts use posts rather than balls, so they may be less susceptible to flopping if overloaded.
[url]http://www.rammount.com/part/RAM-119[/url]
[url]http://www.rammount.com/part/RAM-KNOB9HU[/url]
[url]http://www.scotty.com/fishing-gear-equipment/rod-holders/RocketLauncher.htm[/url]
19.) DParker - 09/07/2016
I love the way these things escalate so quickly. I start off with ideas based on a 99-cent hobbyist's part...and Jon already has me tracking Santa's flying reindeer using an FAA-approved $10K radar array. :grin:
20.) Jon - 09/07/2016
10K would buy the paint for the antenna.......
21.) DParker - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=Jon;43657]10K would buy the paint for the antenna.......[/QUOTE]
Oops...did I forget a zero? :-)
Oops...did I forget a zero? :-)
22.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
[QUOTE=DParker;43656]I love the way these things escalate so quickly. I start off with ideas based on a 99-cent hobbyist's part...and Jon already has me tracking Santa's flying reindeer using an FAA-approved $10K radar array. :grin:[/QUOTE]
Kinda the way it is around here, too...LOL
Kinda the way it is around here, too...LOL
23.) Swamp Fox - 09/07/2016
This is the best off-the-shelf idea I've come across so far for mounting the pole in the kind of ground you're likely to be dealing with. All the traditional light aluminum sand spikes with rod tubes I came across carry the risk of being too soft to drive into anything other than sand, I think, though I did find one neat foldable model.
Of course, you can make your own rig out of fence post and pvc, but I liked this as soon as I found it. You combine the "Bank Station" with the "Rock Spike" and use it for your mics anywhere you please, plus you needed a fishing spike anyway, right? :-)
[url]http://www.fishstrikefishing.com/fish-strike-rock-spike/[/url]
Of course, you can make your own rig out of fence post and pvc, but I liked this as soon as I found it. You combine the "Bank Station" with the "Rock Spike" and use it for your mics anywhere you please, plus you needed a fishing spike anyway, right? :-)
[url]http://www.fishstrikefishing.com/fish-strike-rock-spike/[/url]
24.) DParker - 09/07/2016
OK, you're officially VP in charge of mounts that get stuck into or on the ground. Here's your virtual key to the equally virtual executive washroom. Welcome aboard.
Oh, and keep your hands off the admins. We can't afford another harrassment settlement after Bullz-i's out-of-office assistant incidents.
Oh, and keep your hands off the admins. We can't afford another harrassment settlement after Bullz-i's out-of-office assistant incidents.
25.) Swamp Fox - 09/08/2016
I'm so proud to be a part of this amazing, amazing team...It's really fantastic...We're going to make such a beautiful product, let me tell you, you'll get sick of beautiful products it'll be so amazing. So amazing. Really folks, it'll be yuge, and Apple's going to pay for it.
Also, I want to let you know I'll need the first two weeks of November off, and most of April and May.
Also, I want to let you know I'll need the first two weeks of November off, and most of April and May.
26.) DParker - 09/08/2016
That's OK. We shut down for a company-wide sabbatical for all of Oct, Nov and Dec. Oh, and March...and for all brewery taproom grand openings.
27.) Swamp Fox - 09/08/2016
That's good to hear. It'll save me from using sick days and having a bunch of relatives die in late October.