My Digital Workshop

Using a Raspberry Pi, some Python code and my Ender-3 3D printer I was able to build an automated feeder for a small fish tank. The feeder runs a small web server which allows the user to configure the feed times and feed durations. A Python script is called based on the variables selected to drop food into the tank and the feeder does some math to estimate when the food supply is getting low. Once the food supply is low, the user will receive an email reminding them to refill the hopper. Finn Feeder was featured on page 26 of the Raspberry Pi Official Magazine — Issue 112.

Using an Arduino nano and some C++ code I constructed a sign to display in my front yard for Halloween. The sign is illuminated by a 12 volt LED controlled by the Arduino. When the Arduino is first powered there is a ten second delay allowing me to adjust the brightness with a potentiometer. After ten seconds, the current light level is locked in and the light stays on at that level. This system allows me to fine-tune the brightness for given ambient light levels.

Using a Raspberry Pi, some Python code and printed circuit boards of my own design purchased from JLC PCB I built three sets of paired LED boards to place in the bushes and shrubs of my front yard to turn on and randomly blink off for short intervals. Spacing the three sets and individual boards out gives the effect of eyes blinking at you from afar. I have a video uploaded to YouTube which shows the effect best.

Using a Raspberry Pi and some Python code I restart my home network MODEM and router by cutting power to them, and then reapply power. This automates the process of refreshing the router's system and reset its network settings, addressing common issues like dropped connections, slow speeds, and connection failures.