Project 4: Part Two

We wanted to test out some of the techniques to see how well they would work with our idea. We got some interesting results. The infrared camera hack did not show the heat source that we wanted but rather picks up just the infrared light. We researched if it is possible to make a thermographic camera within budget but only found one that took a 60 second thermographic image for static objects. Instead we will continue with the infrared and produce data out of the infrared light in the city. It still produces something not seen everyday as well as fits in with our budget and part of our concept for seeing how much energy is being used around us. Another thing that we have had to change was using ice as a lens. It was a good concept but we could not make it clear enough to use with the IR. We also could give the same effect by having another camera focused on an ice cube that will be melting from a variable element.

The inside of our webcam. Hacked for IR

Our team has been productive over the second week, Lee and I have both been researching about materials as well as giving detailed reason behind what we are trying to show and what we will use to make the equipment. The trolley has been redesigned as a steel frame that will be covered with MDF wood as the exterior visualisation and base for holding the interior equipment. This is for a lighter and more efficient way to create it. The programming seems to be going well but instead of collaborating data from the camera itself we will use the arduino board that can detect the IR from light sensors with IR film layered over. This will allow the arduino board to detect the IR as well as change the heat value for the element. The SolidWorks sketches that Ben made look to be understandable as to the way we will make it for our equipment. I will find out if he needs any clarification on anything.