Summary: The following is a step by step guide on how to make a Heat-Seeking Desk Fan from an Arduino microcontroller, a computer fan, a servo, and an infrared temperature sensor. The device scans the room periodically, automatically pointing itself in the hottest direction (ideally towards a person). This is a working proof-of-concept model, but it could be easily scaled up should the investment seem worthwhile.
I built this as a project for a college electronics course and had originally planned to include a clap sensor to activate the scan, but didn't have enough time or money. I'll provide an update should I decide to add it in the future.
The concept, design, and code is mine, except for the temp sensor communication code submitted by Sensorjunkie.
Cost: $70 (including Arduino Uno)
Difficulty: Basic Arduino experience is essential. Some of the electronics are not easy to troubleshoot should you run into problems.
Video:
I built this as a project for a college electronics course and had originally planned to include a clap sensor to activate the scan, but didn't have enough time or money. I'll provide an update should I decide to add it in the future.
The concept, design, and code is mine, except for the temp sensor communication code submitted by Sensorjunkie.
Cost: $70 (including Arduino Uno)
Difficulty: Basic Arduino experience is essential. Some of the electronics are not easy to troubleshoot should you run into problems.
Video:
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Signing UpStep 1: Materials
Summary: The required stuff. I've provided links for all the specific parts which cannot be substituted. Everything else you're free to pull from anywhere. Seriously, get creative. Your options will be more clear as you continue reading.
Electronics:
-- Infrared Thermometer MLX90614
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9570
-- Large Servo Motor
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9064
-- Arduino Uno Microcontroller
http://arduino.cc/
-- Computer Fan 12V DC
-- 12V DC Transformer
Hardware:
-- Through-hole circuit board
-- Baseplate (6x8in material of your choosing)
-- Nuts and Bolts
-- Various Adhesives
-- Wire
-- Solder
Tools:
-- Soldering Iron
-- Hot Glue Gun
-- Drill Press
Electronics:
-- Infrared Thermometer MLX90614
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9570
-- Large Servo Motor
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9064
-- Arduino Uno Microcontroller
http://arduino.cc/
-- Computer Fan 12V DC
-- 12V DC Transformer
Hardware:
-- Through-hole circuit board
-- Baseplate (6x8in material of your choosing)
-- Nuts and Bolts
-- Various Adhesives
-- Wire
-- Solder
Tools:
-- Soldering Iron
-- Hot Glue Gun
-- Drill Press
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A newbie to Arduino, I want to build a table fan that follows me as I move in the room. Seems that my fan is always pointing the wrong place. On oscillate it is right only twice in a cycle !
See what I have planned. www.paulckruger.com