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What Do You Do With Your Projects When You Have Finished Them?

rscasny

Since I've been with element14, it's been fun to watch our members report on the projects they have accomplished. It's even more fun to read what members think or react to other members' projects. And some of the projects you dream up are really quite clever. I would hate to think that after you did a project, they just ended up on a shelf gathering dust. So, I'm curious...image

 

What happens to your project builds (prototypes) after you build them?image

 

My guess is that some of the projects actually are being used or may end up as a product on kickstarter? I have corresponded with a few members who said they are actually trying to build something they can sell.

 

I also have a hunch that some of the projects are personal labs, that is, learning experiences because they plan on entering a certain field or industry where your project experience gives you some hands-on skills.

 

If you don't mind me asking you directly, what happens to your projects? If you have the time, share your specific comments or stories below. Thanks

 

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  • Most of my earlier past projects were temporary and on breadboards, intended just for a learning experience.

    Those were all disassembled shortly after completion.

     

    One of my first projects that actually stuck around and received regular use is my greenhouse controller - I had big plans for data logging and watering control, but ran into silly issues with wires being too long and Bluetooth range too short, so this eventually got whittled down to being just a timer to regularly water the greenhouse. I think it started with an Arduino Nano, then went down to a Pro Mini, and now it's a tiny little Digispark controlling it. I'll probably switch that over to ESP8266 soon.

     

    What I consider my turn-around project is my OpenSprinkler controller. It plays an important full-time role and runs for most of the year. I think after I built this my wife realized there was some real potential in this nerdy hobby I have image  It saved us nearly $1000 over purchasing "the usual". OpenSprinkler.org deserves most of the credit of course, as the software was already built, and the schematics were all there. I modified the schematics to suit my specific setup, and to add a bit of extra safety. This was also my first custom PCB and my first intro into switching AC.

    It runs on a Raspberry Pi, and makes my sprinkler control so much more convenient, using my smartphone now.

    image

     

    Recently I've also built a tiny WiFi temperature sensor and data logger that will likely be used for various different purposes - greenhouse in the summer, trailer, shed, and hummingbird feeders in the winter. I'll continue improving the data handling for this.

    In the picture it's that thing in the tic-tac container.

    image

    I might have to do something about all those wires image

     

    Cheers,

    -Nico

  • in reply to ntewinkel

    ps, to answer the other part...

    >My guess is that some of the projects actually are being used or may end up as a product on kickstarter?

     

    I do have one project I'm considering expanding to be Kickstarter worthy, but I'm not sure yet. It would mainly be for the purpose of fulfilling a dream of creating a project that turns into a "real" product.

     

    There are so many details to deal with though - including mass manufacturing of not just the electronics, but also the specialized hardware.

    And also, how does one deal with certifications? and what about liability risks associated with selling a product? It seems I would need to spend a fair bit to set up a corporation first, pay for prototypes and certifications, and start manufacturing.

     

    -Nico

  • in reply to ntewinkel

    Nico,

     

    Don't be put off if the idea is good image. However I'd recommend some indemnity insurance just in case something goes disastrously wrong once you've sold it and consumers bring a legal case against you.

     

    Maybe it is easier to sell a kit in terms of not having to tick all the certifications?

     

    Rod

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  • in reply to ntewinkel

    Nico,

     

    Don't be put off if the idea is good image. However I'd recommend some indemnity insurance just in case something goes disastrously wrong once you've sold it and consumers bring a legal case against you.

     

    Maybe it is easier to sell a kit in terms of not having to tick all the certifications?

     

    Rod

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