Airsoft Mine?! Pt 6: Project Update: Progress, Setbacks, and the Road Ahead
It’s time for an update on the SK550 airsoft mine, and we’ve got a lot to share! This project has evolved significantly over the past few months, and we’re making solid progress, despite a few bumps along the way. Whether you’ve been following since the early days or you’re just joining us, here’s where we stand today.
Recent Progress
First and foremost, a lot of major milestones have been reached. The core functionality of the SK550 is now in place, and the hardware has mostly come together. We’ve 3D printed the mine housing, designed and printed the electronics plate and cover, and implemented PIR motion sensors to detect movement. We also integrated a sleek OLED menu system, giving users full control over various functions.
One key feature we’re proud of is the Bluetooth functionality, which allows users to interact with the mine from a distance. This, along with the efforts to improve power consumption (which now sits at an impressive 80mA when waiting for motion), brings us closer to the goal of a robust, field-ready product.
The latest hardware iteration includes a custom PCB designed specifically for the ESP32 and the components the SK550 needs to function. The NeoPixels were successfully implemented as well, providing the visual feedback we wanted. This leaves only a few tasks to complete before we can move into full testing mode.
Setbacks
Of course, no project of this scale is without its challenges. Recently, we ran into a short on the PCB that interferes with the battery monitoring system. This is an essential feature, so we’re in the process of diagnosing and fixing this issue. Additionally, the battery port and cover needed a redesign, which has set back the assembly of our prototype units.
Weather resistance also remains an ongoing challenge. While we’ve made great strides in sealing the mine’s electronics from light rain and moisture, this is still an area of concern, especially around the button perforations and the wiring for the motor. We need the SK550 to hold up in various weather conditions, so further refinement here is needed.
Finally, there’s the matter of the UV LED rings for tracer rounds. While they aren’t essential to the base function, they’re an exciting feature we’d like to include. However, we’ve been debating the best approach—whether to go with custom PCBs for the UV LEDs or opt for a simpler solution using 3D-printed holes. Both cost and strength of the LEDs are considerations.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, the SK550 is nearing completion, and the road forward is clear. We’re focused on resolving the battery monitoring issue and finalizing the weather resistance. Once these tasks are done, we’ll be able to move into full user testing.
Speaking of testing, we’ve made connections with a local airsoft group, Apra Airsoft, that is interested in helping us refine the SK550. Once the final prototypes are ready, we’ll be conducting real-world tests and collecting feedback. This stage is crucial as it will guide the last tweaks before moving into production.
The goal is to make sure that when the SK550 hits the field, it’s a reliable and innovative tool for players—a motion-detecting, omni-directional area denial system that can be triggered multiple times, delivering a unique and immersive airsoft experience.
Final Thoughts
The SK550 project has come a long way, but as with any invention, progress takes time. We’re confident that with the fixes and improvements in place, we’ll be moving quickly toward the finish line. Thanks for sticking with us through the ups and downs—we can’t wait to show you the final version in action!
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the final stages of development!