Difference between revisions of "Projects:Badge"

Revision as of 16:18, 1 April 2017

Name badges can be very useful on a large event such as SHA, but pieces of paper are a bit too low tech for 2017... But what if you would replace the piece of paper with a modern display technology like E-ink? And replace the plastic holder with a PCB with smart electronics?

Second revision SHA2017 Badge

Badges can be so much more if there are intelligent! Connectivity and integration can make this piece of hardware a useful part of the event. On top of that, the badge will also be a great gadget for after the event.

It seems like every big hacker camp from the past years has had it's own badge, and the reactions have been great. People like concept and the 'hackability', for some it is a handy tool and for others it the chance to play with new microcontrollers and sensors.

Why make a badge?

We would like to distribute badges to every SHA visitor for 2 main reasons

Augment the event

Name badges are nice, but a display can do much more than static text. With the onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity we can deliver for example weather information and timetables right to visitors. And what if you could have live subtitles of the talk that you are watching around your neck? [Insert pic of weather, etc (anus demo)]

Be a development platform

Since we hackers like to tinker with hardware and software, we are going to make the badge not just a final and closed product, but also a open platform to experiment on. All the basics for a great development platform are onboard, including handy inputs and outputs. We designed the badge to be accessible, easily programmable by microPython in an online environment. We strive to use new and cutting-edge hardware on the badge as demo reel for new IC's and modules.

How far is the badge?

To be honest, pretty far away from production :(

There is not enough money from the event itself to cover the parts and manufacturing. Almost everything will need to come from generous sponsors, and we currently lack those badly. As this is the first Dutch hacker camp that will have a badge, we do not yet have connections to companies that are able and willing to help us out (unlike the CCC camp for example).

I want to help your badge!

Awesome! Please contact Team badge! We are currently in need of your help! Parts or funds in any way would help us a lot.

What can you offer in return?

We can brand the Badge or the software (boot screen for example) with your logo. Or if you would supply the badge with an awesome sensor, visitors can get familiar with your hardware. An talk about a specific cool piece of hardware or software can also be arranged.

Behind the scenes

If you are interested in the making of this badge, take a look at these URL's:

• https://github.com/SHA2017-badge/
• https://orga.sha2017.org/index.php/Projects:Badge
• https://pad.sha2017.org/p/badge

The search for components

Total amount based on 6.000 badges (5500 for the event, 10% breakage). Would you like to sponsor (a) component(s) or part of the badge? Please contact us.

Commercial sponsors

Crowdfunding

Always wanted to sponsor a component? Want to be part of this amazing badge? Now is your chance! Sponsoring a single resistor or LED (6000 units) will set you back about € 20. The SK6812 LEDs will probably be around € 1500. So whatever your budget, we will be able to handle your crowdfunding craves! In return we promise to send you extra love and sign your badge during the event!