micro:bit Journaling Bag

thingiverse

This is a modification of a men's shoulder bag that adds an animated LED logo using a BBC micro:bit computer, which I'm modifying as a journalist and tech enthusiast who wanted a new bag to carry my journal and supplies when traveling. The UK government is giving all level 7 students the BBC micro:bit miniature programmable computer this year to learn coding, with Microsoft helping the effort by providing software tools for kids to program the computers. How I Designed This The KAUKKO Vintage Canvas Shoulder Bag was modified using the following materials: Messenger bag with leather front BBC micro:bit Micro USB charging cable USB battery stick 2 #10 Stainless Steel Acorn nuts 2 #10 Stainless Steel 3/8" bolts with rounded heads Here's how I did it: Step 1: Get Bag I ordered this bag from Amazon. Step 2: Design and Print Mount Using the Microsoft 3D Builder software that comes with Windows 10, I designed a mount for the BBC micro:bit. The device is inserted into the space between the leather front of the bag and the canvas lining behind it. I printed the mount on a Dremel 3D40 Idea Builder 3D printer using PLA and supports. Designing mount in Microsoft 3D Builder app on Windows 10 Step 3: Alter Bag I cut a small slit in the back canvas of the bag's front flap, large enough to insert the mounted micro:bit. I then reinforced the opening with Duck tape. Using a template, I cut out holes for the LEDs, mounting holes, and buttons with an Xacto Knife. Step 4: Code Micro:bit I used the Microsoft Block Editor to program the animation on the micro:bit. You can also program in JavaScript, Python, or Touch Develop. My code is available in the thing files at http://www.thingiverse.com/download:2715401. The left button slows down the speed of the LED column, while the right button speeds it up. Tilting the bag up changes the animation to Up arrows. Coding micro:bit with Microsoft Block Editor Step 5: Mount Micro:bit Place the micro:bit in the mount and insert both into the opening in the bag front flap between the leather and canvas. Attach the USB cable to the micro-bit, then push the bolts through the mount and leather, screwing on the acorn nuts onto the front of the bag. Finally, attach the USB cable to the USB battery pack. Final Result