Week 1: Initial plan and sketch
I don't think this is really to be my final project, but if can't come with something better (a machine would be great), I don't think is a bad idea. It's a wearable top with turning lights for cyclists. I know, I know, nothing new right? Probably just one of first the most useful projects made with Arduino Lilypad by Leah Buechley. But what I'm thinking of, is a universal top, that you can use with whatever you're wearing. I have to confess that I drive more than I ride, but I consider myself very respectful with cyclist because I am one sometimes. But I cannot believe people go ride by night without any lights.Project description:
This project aims to design and make the prototype of a light system for cyclists that can be used over any clothes.
The system includes at least a couple of turning lights that can be activated over switches, as near as possible to the hand for being comfortable to activate and avoiding false activations.
The system may include also other lights like auxiliary front and rear light, though I would personally prefer to have those installed on the bike. But more interesting would be a braking light.
This braking light could be operated by sensing when the brake levers are activated or inertially operated, by using an inertial measurement unit.
Sketch
Main tasks
Review existing solutions
Looking for inspiration and maybe for some useful mistake information that would come in handy, the first task would be to research existing wearable and non-wearable light systems for bicycles. Also maybe search for some brake detection using common IMUs and microprocessors
Textile pattern design
This would be everything about whatever is needed for designing the textile part, from materials, pattern of the textile, clips, belts or whatever is used to wear the project.
Electronic circuit design and microcontroller programming
Starting with the lights, how to power them, and the integration of the switches. Then when the brake light is added, programming the microcontroller to detect deceleration and light the brake.