AuroraScanner

The idea for the prototype came from Rovaniemi based company Beyond Arctic. The entrepreneur wanted to create a solution to be able to ensure optimal weather from remote locations to hunt northern lights. The goal for the prototype was to prevent transportation emissions from unnecessary trips to remote places. The design should be inspired by nature and blend in the surroundings.

Prototyped solution

Raspberry PI 3 works as the brains of the prototype and Raspberry HQ-camera with Seedstudio’s 6 mm lens captures the view. The design of the casing follows the technology, forming organic and compact shape.

AuroraScanner captures images of it’s view during specified time and sends them to cloud storage by using 4G-connection. Data is then analyzed to determine whether there is an optimal weather at the location or not.

Data-collection is not necessarily needed around the clock and therefore energy can be saved by timing the functions.

Casing is designed to be manufactured by 3D-printing. It allows more complex structures without a restricting mold. In this prototype the casing is designed with a double-layered structure to reduce forming cold bridges.

Back of the prototype is designed to yield and follow the shape of the surface so the support area is larger. For example tree trunk is cylinder so therefore the contact area would only be in tangent. The foam pieces are attached with velcro and can be replaced with different thickness and material if needed.

Surface’s texture on the front ensures better grip with gloves on and gives attitude to the looks! Texture on the sides strengthens and stiffens the casing as the outer layer is only 2 mm thick.

The making of AuroraScanner

The AuroraScanner prototype is part of e-Sprint, a public development project aiming to boost local entrepreneurship. e-Sprint is managed by Lapland University of Applied Sciences and it has an ERDF funding granted by the Regional Council of Lapland.