LoRa Experiments
A series of experiments from Michael Shorter and Jon Rogers exploring LoRa mesh networks.
The LoRa Mapper
A tool for visualising LoRa range in the real world. This first version plots points on a map to show whether your LoRa node can communicate with its partner, building up a picture of how range is affected by the environment around you. This allows you to see how physical features such as trees, buildings, and elevation all affect range, as do subtler influences like atmospheric conditions and weather. Hardware choices matter too, including aerial position, orientation, and size. Results are displayed in a standalone Processing sketch.
Hardware:
Arduino Nano ESP32
Heltec LoRa V3
Adafruit Ultimate GPS
SD Card reader
4 x LEDS
Code is here:
https://github.com/michaelshorter/LoRa-Mapper-SD-card-version
The Bell End
A LoRa-triggered physical bell. When the word "yes" is received over LoRa radio, the motor spins briefly to hit the bell.
Hardware:
Arduino Nano ESP32
Heltec LoRa V3
Geared DC motor
L298N Motor Driver
A Bell, obviously
The code is here:
LoRa Printer
The LoRa Printer listens to all network activity on the public channel and prints out everything it hears. From users ‘pinging’ themselves, LoRa etiquette advice, weather reports and jokes - it’s all there - and super interesting.
Hardware:
Arduino Nano ESP32
Heltec LoRa V3
Thermal Printer
Real Time Clock
The code is here:
https://github.com/michaelshorter/LoRa-Network-Monitor
LoRaKeYs
LoRaKeY is a low-power, portable messaging node designed for off-grid or long-range communication scenarios. Press one of the predetermined word keys to instantly transmit a word, or build a short sentence using sentence mode, all without needing a phone, internet, or cell network.
Hardware:
Arduino Nano ESP32
Heltec LoRa V3
OLED Display
3x4 Keypad
Code is here:
FishNet
Get Fish, not Phish. FishNet connects a single customer with his local fishmonger in an area where phone reception is patchy. This basic communication device has a joystick to allow the user to create messages on the OLED display. FishNet’s main purpose is to notify the customer when fresh fish come in.
Hardware:
Arduino Nano ESP32
Heltec LoRa V3
OLED Display
Joystick
Solar Nodes
We are running a couple of Meshnology Mesh Tower Solar nodes in Merseyside, England and Fife, Scotland. Testing their ability to weather the storms, stay powered and build mesh networks. We found these nodes instantly shut down due to condensation. A teardown and a coating of conformal spray later they seem to be running well. Currently (Feb 26) staying above 90% battery at all time. We also built a custom T-Slot aluminum frame to house the solar panel and replace the existing bracket to ensure it can withstand the elements.
Hardware:
Meshnology Solar Mesh Tower
Conformal Spray
Custom Aluminium frame