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Lightning Popper

Jan 21, 2024 - 1 minute read
feature image

Github link: https://github.com/bigcrimping/lightning_popper/

Lightning Popper

A Raspberry Pi pico project connecting to a SparkFun AS3935 Lightning Detector via SPI and a L298N motor driver to drive a micro metal 298:1 6V gearmotor

The electronics fit in a 3D printed housing in the base of a Ikea BEGÅVNING glass dome with a upper section holding the motor drive and wheel

Project Code

The code is here: https://github.com/bigcrimping/lightning_popper/tree/main/lightning_code

You will need to add the “Soldered AS3935 Lightning sensor library” and the “Raspberry Pi Pico/RP2040” board package to compile

Wiring

The base contains:

  1. Raspberry Pi Pico
  2. SparkFun AS3935 Lightning Detector
  3. Generic LDO board (to feed AS3935 supply)
  4. “L298N DC Motor Driver MX1508 Mini Dual Channel 1.5A”
  5. “HW-432” Step up converter(6V)

Wiring is as below:

electronics

Mechanical Files

Mechanical files here: https://github.com/bigcrimping/lightning_popper/tree/main/mech (3mf format)

The design comprises of:

“base” which will require brass inserts

threaded

“bell motor” printed with supports

bell_motor

“wheel” with M2.5 insert and M2.5x10mm cap head bolt

wheel