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  • Author Author: zengirl2
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WeatherBrella - Umbrellas and Parts

zengirl2

Well, it has taken me a while to get to this post because I've been guilty of tons of research -- part umbrella and part micro-controller. Let me begin with saying that umbrellas are a nasty business.  Apparently there aren't many manufacturers and they get very protective of brands and inventory.  I've been on a search for a white or gray umbrella that is manual or auto-open in a folding or compact style, and I've been asking wholesalers if the handles are removable via a screw.  To my surprise, they often don't know, and one in particular actually lied to me, saying he had it right in his hand and that it didn't have a screw.  A visit to my local drugstore cleared that issue up, as I soon discovered the particular brand had screws in every one of its models. As far as the color, it is next to impossible to get a compact white umbrella because they are usually only sold for logo printing purposes. I had it set in my mind that I wanted one, and luckily I found a wedding supplier that had them for sale on their site.  I'm not expecting the quality to be so good, but then again, most compact umbrellas are not well made anyway. So, I'm okay with it.

 

As for micro-controllers, I've been investigating Bluetooth Low Energy shields, RFDuino, TinyDuino, TI's SensorTag, eRIC, and SparkCore. Today I finally decided on the SparkCore, mainly because it was just getting too difficult to find a small package with connectivity and language I understand. SparkCore is WiFi enabled (uses TI's CC3000) and is Arduino friendly. The downside? It has a mustache shaped battery charger/connector, which I'm going to have to eliminate because it completely takes away from the streamline qualities of the design. It looks like many people agree with me, because there is a section on their forum dedicated to a re-design. I've already started the search for possible USB battery packs or LiPo boosters to solve the issue.  For now, I want to get started on the prototyping. I should mention that I found a tidbit on SparkCore's site talking about some NeoPixel code -- sounds like they may have been able to work that out, which would be a major plus for me as I'm a pixel maniac.image

 

Anyway, hang in there while I wait for these devices to get to my house. Then, I promise you will get some decent photos. I'm so glad the research part is over because I'm eager to get making!

  • in reply to DAB

    DAB,

    I haven't written them down, but if you ask me about any of them I will remember. I think the two biggest issues are my own comfort level and also size. For comfort level, I had to decide whether to go completely non Arduino, which would have been two giant steps, or to go partial Arduino, which is only one giant step.  So, you could say I'm choosing my battles wisely. The real drama is going to be the battery. I still don't know if everything can be successfully housed in the handle.  If not, at least I will have the smallest parts I could find (and understand).

     

    Yes to the humor -- always! As for maker traits, still want to be like you. image

  • Good post Leslie.

     

    It is so important to do the work up front so that you run into less surprises as you do your build.

    Have you taken the time to write down your experiences and options you pursued.

    Many new makers have no idea how much time is needed just to run down your options and assess each candidate for selection that they easily get sidelined.

     

    I am very happy that you are showing all of your experiences with the build.

    Plus you have a good talent for making good observations and keeping your sense of humor.

     

    All are essential maker traits.

     

    Keep up the good work,

    DAB