Rick Prescott must be feeling like a million bucks right now, even if the official cash prize for topping the MAKE/Design News Gadget Freak Design Contest is only $1,000.
The reason is pretty clear cut given the success of his diabolical creation. While Mr. Prescott is far from Thomas Edison incarnate, his target-acquiring and heat-seeking spin on a humble Nerf gun has literally blown away the competition. It will likely blow you away too if you cross the guy.
Design and Purpose
Designed for the sinister purpose of keeping intruders away from his office cubicle, Mr. Prescott describes the Nerf Machinegun’s use as necessary to “speed interaction with less desirable visitors.” While this smacks of a disturbed misanthropic paranoiac’s line of reasoning, it in no way diminishes the man’s coolness. The idea of using a Nerf gun for such a purpose is both innovative and humorous, blending the line between practical joke and practical defense.
Before we forget, here’s a rundown of the weapon’s key components: Devantech TPA81 motion sensors and an ATmega 168 microcontroller are attached to a tripod-mounted Nerf gun. Judging by the pics, it’s got an independent power source and an ample supply of ammo. If this were an equation, it would equal much (bloodless) carnage.
Applications and Implications
Besides your office, this is great for lawns often intruded on by kids and local pets sniffing around for a place to do their business. Zombies too. The potential applications for this gadget extend beyond mere office defense. Imagine setting it up in your garden to deter pesky animals or even using it as a fun, interactive way to keep your kids entertained. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and perhaps local laws regarding automated projectile devices.
The use of Devantech TPA81 motion sensors is particularly noteworthy. These sensors are capable of detecting the infrared radiation emitted by warm objects, such as humans or animals, making them ideal for a heat-seeking application. The ATmega 168 microcontroller, on the other hand, is a versatile and powerful component that can be programmed to control the gun’s firing mechanism with precision. This combination of technology ensures that the Nerf gun is not only effective but also highly accurate.
Moreover, the ethical implications of such a device should not be overlooked. While it is designed for harmless fun, the concept of automated weaponry, even in a toy form, raises questions about the future of robotics and artificial intelligence in security and defense. Could this be a precursor to more serious applications? Only time will tell.
In addition to its practical uses, the Nerf Machinegun also serves as a testament to the power of DIY and maker culture. It showcases how everyday items can be repurposed and transformed into something entirely new and exciting. This spirit of innovation is at the heart of the MAKE/Design News Gadget Freak Design Contest, encouraging individuals to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology.
In conclusion, Rick Prescott’s heat-seeking Nerf gun is a marvel of modern DIY ingenuity. It combines humor, practicality, and a touch of the diabolical to create a gadget that is both entertaining and functional. Whether you’re looking to keep intruders at bay or simply want to have some fun, this creation is sure to impress. So, the next time you find yourself dealing with unwanted visitors, remember that a little creativity and some basic components might be all you need to turn the tables.
Via Gizmodo
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