Introduction: Smart Dash Mount (Samsung Galaxy S6)

Want to stop texting and driving but need a little help? If so, this design is an efficient and convenient method to not only stop texting and driving but streamlining your entire mobile device while driving. This instructable will show you how to make your very own smart dash mount for your Galaxy S6 or convert your existing one. The dash mount will allow you too immediately initialize apps, turn on GPS, change settings, text or call contacts, and many other features as soon as your phone is placed in the mount. This is faster then sorting through screens and menus and is especially useful in the winter when you are wearing gloves or trying to click with numb fingers.

Note:
To make the dash mount yourself access to a 3D printer is required, however, it is also possible to use an existing dash mount.

Step 1: Parts List:

  • 3D Printer (If you are making your own)
  • 1.5 inch 1/4 20 bolt
  • Small Crescent Wrench
  • Super Glue
  • Double sided tape
  • NFC Tag

Step 2: Print the Parts

If you already have a dash mount you would like to convert skip to step 4.

Before assembly each part must be printed. Total estimated print time is about 7 hours. I use a Printrbot Simple and Repetier software. Each part will print inside a four by four inch print bed.

I have attached the .stl files for each part. When printing refer to these settings.

  • Infill: 20% - 30%
  • Infill Pattern: Honeycomb or user preference
  • Layer Height: 0.2mm
  • Support Material: Only required for the phone holder

If you have access to a 3D printer but are new to the world of 3D printing here is a site with a lot of helpful information to get you started:
http://3dprintingforbeginners.com/

Step 3: Assembly

  1. Start by using super glue to attach the phone holder to the arm.
  2. Thread the 1/4 20 bolt through the holes of the base and arm. It will be a tight fit.
    1. Adjust to the desired angle and then tighten.
  3. Using the adhesive of your choice attach the base to the dash of your vehicle.
    1. Double side tape, adhesive tabs, or the like.

Step 4: Program the NFC Tag

Different NFC tags may use different apps to write functions onto the tag. In this example I'll walk through using the Trigger app. You will also need the Drivemode app or similar driving assistance app. Drivemode is an app that can send auto reply text messages, read texts aloud, use text to speech, as well many other features to help users operate their device without distracting them from driving.

  1. Download the free Trigger app (NFC tag writing app). You can find it in the Google app store.
  2. Once it is downloaded open the app and select "Create a Task".
  3. This will bring to a blank screen. Click the plus button at the top right to add a trigger (action that initializes the function).
  4. The next screen will ask you which trigger will launch the app. Select NFC.
  5. You will then be asked to add any desired restrictions. Select any option that applies to you.
  6. In the following screen type the name of the function. In this case I typed Drivemode.
  7. On the same screen select the plus button in the top right. This will ask what you want the app to do once the phone is triggered by an NFC tag. There are a lot of options here. The first action you will want is to open an application or "app". Scroll down and select this option.
  8. After selecting "open application" a drop down box will appear with all of your apps. Find the Drivemode app and select it. Finish by clicking "Add to task".
  9. Select done and the app will wait for the NFC tag. Place the tag you want the function written to on the back on your S6. Make sure it actually touches the back. Once it is done a confirmation will appear telling you that is was successful and now it's ready to use!

Step 5: Insert Tag and Test It Out!

  1. Place the tag in the designated square slot. If you are using an existing dash mount place the tag anywhere that it will touch the back of the phone when it is placed in the dash mount.
  2. Insert your phone into the dash mount.
  3. Watch your phone initialize the app and any other functions added. You can now seamlessly operate your phone while driving and refrain from distracted driving.

This system is simply an application of NFC tags. There a many ways these can be implemented to streamline your everyday cell phone use. Using the same process described above it is also possible to place a tag by the door that turns off wifi and enables data usage as you leave. Place a tag on your key chain to quickly turn on your phones flashlight app. Keep one on your couch to quickly initialize a TV remote app. The possibilities are truly endless.

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