Summary of Robotic "Better Mousetrap" Project Launched by Telovation.com
This article describes the "Better Mousetrap," an over-engineered robotic pest control system by Telovation.com. Designed for visual impact, it uses advanced technology to detect and destroy mice with a high-speed pneumatic cylinder. The device features ultrasonic sensing, lasers, and various indicators, housed in a rugged aluminum case. It measures 12x6x2.5 inches and weighs 5.5 pounds, offering a dramatic alternative to traditional traps.
Parts used in the Better Mousetrap:
- High-speed pneumatic cylinder
- Ultrasonic sensing unit
- Laser sensor
- Key lock switch with manual hammer override
- Visual monitoring indicators (power, PSI, armed, detect, fire)
- Solenoid valves
- Controllers
- Circuit boards
- Pneumatic actuator
- 0.25 inch thick 6061 polished aluminum case
Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) December 15, 2009
It’s been said “Build a better mousetrap, and the world will beat a path to your door.” That may be true, but this mousetrap takes the term “beat” to a whole new level.
Like cracking a nut with a sledgehammer, the robotic “Better Mousetrap” pest control system goes to the extreme to detect and destroy its target.
The shoebox-sized Better Mousetrap is technology-rich and features a high-speed pneumatic cylinder, ultrasonic sensing, laser, a key lock switch with manual hammer override, visual monitoring of power (12v), PSI, and armed, detect, and fire indicators.
“Many people have been trying to develop a ‘better mousetrap’ for years, so we decided to build one in the literal sense,” says Jake Easton, managing editor of Telovation.com, an online technology and innovation news website.
The thought of creating a better mousetrap was particularly compelling for Easton. “Between the website and our clients, we’re constantly looking for innovative ways to showcase technology, and this was a natural fit,” Easton says.
While he considers himself more of a minimalist, in this case, Easton’s superfluous design was purposefully chosen for the added “Wow” factor that it brought to the project.
“It would be difficult to beat the simplicity that James Atkinson designed into his mousetrap more than 100 years ago,” Easton said, but his admittedly overdesigned mousetrap “is a lot more fun to watch.”
To make the machine more accessible, Telovation.com produced a video showing the Better Mousetrap in action. No lengthy “Gone with the Wind” epics here: the mousetrap and unsuspecting mouse are put through their paces in just 30 seconds of fascinating video.
The machine’s rugged design features a 0.25″ thick 6061 polished aluminum case, with a small compartment containing the mechanical and electronic systems, including solenoid valves, controllers, indicators, circuit boards, and pneumatic actuator.
While the mousetrap packs a lot of punch for its small size, it still overshadows its little brothers, measuring 12″ x 6″ x 2.5″ high and weighing in at 5.5 pounds.
For more photos and the video, go to:
http://www.telovation.com/articles/better-mousetrap.html
About Telovation.com – Inspiration for Curious Minds:
Telovation provides no-nonsense reporting on everything new, cool, and interesting in the world of design, technology, gadgets, art, and innovation.
Telovation is part of the online media network of Radok Corporation, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Radok is an Internet media consulting firm specializing in search engine optimization and website marketing.
Contact:
Steve Ross
Telovation.com
http://www.telovation.com
A Radok Company
Scottsdale, Arizona 85258
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What is the purpose of the Better Mousetrap?
The project was created to build a literal better mousetrap that detects and destroys its target using extreme technology. -
How does the machine detect a mouse?
The system utilizes ultrasonic sensing and a laser to detect its target before firing. -
What material is the case made of?
The machine features a rugged design with a 0.25 inch thick 6061 polished aluminum case. -
Can the trap be operated manually?
Yes, the device includes a key lock switch with a manual hammer override. -
What are the dimensions of the Better Mousetrap?
The machine measures 12 inches by 6 inches by 2.5 inches high. -
How much does the device weigh?
The mousetrap weighs in at 5.5 pounds. -
Does the machine have visual indicators?
Yes, it features visual monitoring for power, PSI, and armed, detect, and fire states. -
Who designed this project?
Jake Easton from Telovation.com led the project to showcase innovative technology.
