Introduction: Construction of an Earthquake Simulator

By alvaro.linuxkafe.com
About: Escola Secundária de Rio Tinto

Earthquake Simulator - QuakeScientific

The QuakeScientific project aims to develop a small-scale earthquake simulator that allows users to observe the impact of seismic activity on different structures. The system consists of a physical platform controlled by an Arduino, which generates vibrations to simulate tremors. This project combines mechanical design, electronics, and programming to create an interactive educational tool.

Physical Construction

The simulator’s physical structure is designed using Inkscape, Tinkercad, and SketchUp, where the parts are modeled before being manufactured through laser cutting and 3D printing. Once all components are produced, they are assembled to form the final artifact.

Electronics and Programming

The system is controlled by an Arduino, programmed in C++, and connected to various electronic components:

  1. Motor and Shield: Responsible for generating movement on the platform.
  2. Bluetooth HC-05 Module: Enables wireless communication.
  3. OLED Display 1.3: Provides real-time feedback.

Mobile Application

An application was developed using AppInventor to allow users to interact with the simulator, enhancing its usability and control.

Educational Purpose

This simulator is designed to help students and researchers better understand how structures behave during earthquakes. It serves as a learning tool for engineering, physics, and emergency preparedness training, offering a hands-on experience with seismic effects.

Supplies

  1. Arduino UNO REV3; 1
  2. DC Motor; 1
  3. L293D Motor Shield x2; 1
  4. Bluetooth HC-05; 1
  5. SD Card Reader; 1
  6. 12V Power Supply; 1
  7. PLA Filament Roll; 1
  8. Bearings; 3
  9. Screws (set);
  10. MDF and Laser Cutting;

Step 1: Mindmap

1. Main Structure

The project is divided into two main areas:

• Physical Construction of the Artifact (Structure and Mechanics)

• Electronics and Programming (Sensors and Code)


2. Physical Construction of the Artifact

This branch involves digital fabrication and is subdivided into:

• Designing parts using tools like Inkscape, Tinkercad, and SketchUp.

• Processing the parts through:

• Laser cutting, using the lasergrbl software.

• 3D printing for creating physical components.

• Final assembly of the artifact.


3. Electronics and Programming

This section focuses on electronic components and programming:

• Arduino serves as the central microcontroller, responsible for communication and control.

• Programming in C++ to operate the electronic components.

• Use of a Shield to control a motor.

• Connection with auxiliary devices:

• Bluetooth module HC-05 (likely for remote communication).

• OLED Display 1.3 (for visual information display).

• Integration with App Inventor, suggesting the development of a mobile application for control or monitoring.

Step 2: Schematic

For the study of the shield : link

Step 3: Construction

The structure was built using MDF, with some parts designed in Tinkercad 3D. The main concept is to have a platform that slides along a rail from back to front.

Step 4: Code

Summary of the Code - Mind Map

This code implements an earthquake simulation system using Arduino, with Bluetooth, an OLED display, and a DC motor.

Setup:

• Initializes the OLED display, Bluetooth, and motor.

• Displays a startup logo on the OLED.

• Waits for Bluetooth commands in the format "amplitude;time".

Main Loop:

• Reads Bluetooth data and extracts amplitude and duration.

• Displays a countdown on the OLED (from 5 to 1).

• Shows the received magnitude centered on the OLED.

• Activates the motor proportionally to the magnitude.

• Stops the motor after the specified duration.

Completion:

• The system waits for new Bluetooth commands.

• Logs execution steps in the serial monitor.

Goal: Simulate a real earthquake by adjusting the motor speed according to the received magnitude.

Attachments

Step 5: App

Interface and Process Analysis of the App

1. Bluetooth Pairing (HC-05)

  1. The first step in using the application is pairing with the HC-05 Bluetooth module, a widely used module in electronics projects. The user must enter a PIN (1235 or other) to establish the connection.

2. Home Page

  1. The main interface displays the QuakeScientific logo and a “Start” button.
  2. Pressing “Start” directs the user to the connection page.

3. Connection Page

  1. The screen shows the Bluetooth connection status (red button “QuakeScientificOFF”).
  2. The user needs to connect to the QuakeScientific Bluetooth, selecting between QuakeScientificOFF and QuakeScientificON.

4. Selecting Magnitude and Time

  1. The user sets the magnitude by sliding a button to adjust the desired value.
  2. The phenomenon duration is selected in seconds.
  3. The “Send” button confirms the parameters and transmits the chosen values.

5. Step-by-Step Usage Guide

The interface guides the user through the following steps:

  1. Connect to the QuakeScientific Bluetooth.
  2. Select the magnitude of the phenomenon.
  3. Choose the duration (in seconds).
  4. Send the data to the device.

Project link