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Knock Block: a modern knocking framework
Man has long wrestled with Time. Also, with knocking on things and not getting the time of day. We propose a knocking platform through which these fundamental needs are met. This is illustrated with the Knock Block KUI and accompanying Clock Knock Block application. The Knock Block possesses realistic knocking action with a human-like variation in frequency and amplitude of knocks.
Just knock on the Knock Block, or even the surface on which it's resting, and it will knock back the time to you. First it will knock the number of hours, and then the quarter hours.
If you knock several times, the Mock Knock Block application will take over, and repeat back your knocking pattern.
Video: http://www.vimeo.com/6713094
Man has long wrestled with Time. Also, with knocking on things and not getting the time of day. We propose a knocking platform through which these fundamental needs are met. This is illustrated with the Knock Block KUI and accompanying Clock Knock Block application. The Knock Block possesses realistic knocking action with a human-like variation in frequency and amplitude of knocks.
Just knock on the Knock Block, or even the surface on which it's resting, and it will knock back the time to you. First it will knock the number of hours, and then the quarter hours.
If you knock several times, the Mock Knock Block application will take over, and repeat back your knocking pattern.
Video: http://www.vimeo.com/6713094
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Signing UpStep 1Inside the Knock Block
What's inside that rich mahogany exterior? An Arduino that reads vibrations from a piezoelectric sensor and relays back information with a solenoid tapping against the resonant lid of the block. It's all powered by one or two 9V batteries.
Parts list:
- any Arduino can handle this
- a TIP31C high current transistor for the switch
- the exotically named Jameco 191172-001 solenoid, prized for its low price ($3!) and current
- a Measurement Specialties DT-series piezo film element (pretty sure that's the model)
- a 1M ohm resistor (your mileage may vary)
- 9V battery
- block case of your choice
Parts list:
- any Arduino can handle this
- a TIP31C high current transistor for the switch
- the exotically named Jameco 191172-001 solenoid, prized for its low price ($3!) and current
- a Measurement Specialties DT-series piezo film element (pretty sure that's the model)
- a 1M ohm resistor (your mileage may vary)
- 9V battery
- block case of your choice
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(PLEASE don't call it a schlock mock knock block ;¬)
How long does the battery last in it? I can't imagine it would drain them too quickly. Also, would it be possible make a plug on it to plug it into say a USB port for charging only?