Searching for Stability

Proposal

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Project Description

Overview

Our project is to create a bike-mounted stabilizing platform for iPhone cinematography. We will use the readings from two magnetic encoders to control two motors responsible for stabilizing the platform. Vibration dampening pads in the mounting device itself will provide additional stability. If successful, applications of an inexpensive, compact stabilizing device could be innumerable, from handheld usage to RC and aerial filming and photography.

The mounting device of the gimbal is an original design drafted in SketchUp and produced in AutoCAD.

By the end of the semester we will be able to present iPhone footage from our device to illustrate its stabilizing capabilities.

Team Members

• Natalie Ng
• Nathan Schmetter
• Deko Ricketts (TA)

Objectives

• Program an Arduino module to receive data from magnetic rotary encoders to consistently level the iPhone while in use
• Design and construct a practical and functional mounting device for an iPhone on a bike
• Design and embed the gimbal and additional stability elements either onto or within the mounting platform itself
• Successfully stabilize the iPhone while recording a video from a moving bike

Challenges

• Perfecting the programming of the Arduino module in order to analyze the input from the two magnetic rotary encoders and communicate with the two brushless motors to re-level the iPhone
• Ensuring that input from the encoders is readable to the Arduino
• Identifying appropriate motors to carry out the stabilization of the platform
• Designing the mounting device and modifying gimbal design using 3D printer
• Finding the most effective dampening cushions considering size and weight of platform
• Compacting all elements of the design to create an unobtrusive stabilizing device

Budget

Arduino

• Parts Ordered Online
  • 2 Magnetic Rotary Encoders ($14.99)
  • 2 Brushless Gimbal Motors ($13.99 each)
    • Shipping - $3.54
  • Dampening Pads ($7.50)
• Hardware
  • 4 9V batteries ($21.99)
  • 4 Screws to secure dampening pads
  • 3 9V Battery Snap Connectors
  • Wire

Total: $90.99

Gantt Chart

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