Thought I'd share a very basic device to help locate rockets... possibly to use in Launch in March.
I built this over about 4 hrs, so expecting it to have a few flaws.
Haven't looked to see what is around...thought I'd just see what I could make
* It slides on to 5/16" shock cord.
* Uses 85db (at 30cm) buzzer... so you can hear it from a reasonable distance.
* Uses a 12 volt battery...like the ones you use in remotes.
* Uses Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) to ensure that when it is inside rocket tube, no alarm, minimal power usage.
* Relatively compact - container is 3-d print - 65 x 20 x 28mm
* Had to make up my own copper tabs to make contact with the battery.
* Relatively simple electronics...not much that can go wrong.
Possible improvements
* Would be nice to be able to solder the components on the board and THEN slide in... or perhaps all components EXCEPT buzzer.
* It would also be better if the components were on the other side, further out of harms way. At present I've put 5min areldite around them, to ensure they stay affixed.
* I still want to create a simple lid to keep the battery in.
* Add a small on/off switch
* Have two LDR 180 degrees apart, so less chance of light not being able to set the alarm off.
* Have holes in frame to "install" LDR sensors...keep them flush, but unexposed.
Enjoy!
Joe
