Idea - User Auto Fan

The User Auto Fan (UAF) stems from the previous idea, in that it will interact with the user without the need for their awareness or participation. This artefact could be a fun exhibition piece or even be a consumer product in homes.


Sketches and description of UAF.

The simplest way the UAF would track heat and position would be with using PIR sensors (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_infrared_sensor, http://www.gadgetshack.com/motionsensor.html). PIR sensors are commonly used in security systems that detect movement or human presence, and by using the inputs of the two sensors, an Arduino would be able to calculate position.

The most aparrent problems that would be encountered in this idea is how to detect the hottest objects amongst hot objects, and cool down only humans and no other hot objects (such as radiators). These problems may not be able to be overcome by using the Arduino and PIR sensors alone, however the idea would likeley be able to be prototyped to a very advanced stage.

PIR sensors and servo motors can be found on high-street shops such as Maplin:

http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?TabID=1&criteria=usb&ModuleNo=26922&doy=search&C=SO&U=Strat15

http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?TabID=1&criteria=usb&ModuleNo=9944&doy=search&C=SO&U=Strat15


I think that the UAF would be an exciting and user-rewarding idea to persue, and so that, coupled with the fact that it will run using the flexible Arduino technology, make it a strong possibility for development.