help with arduino visual c/c++ code writing

[mykwikcoupe]

I have a very cool Halloween project I am attempting to build this year. For those that don't know, i put up a pretty cool Halloween display every year. I by trade am an electrician so most of my props re done via hard-wired and individual items to manipulate the circuit and control the prop. that unfortunately gets pretty expensive. this year, I decided to try my luck at the arduino stuff.

If you look on youtube.com and search for casa fear zombie as well as bakersben walker witch this is what I'm building. Instead of being 2 separate props though i want them to be a single prop that randomizes 4 different scenarios. If anyone has good knowledge of writing the code and can help me through let me know. I am having a great time figuring it out and am learning something new every day but i need to make sure this thing works before its needed. I am incorporating music into the prop using an ethernet shield as storage via the on-board sdcard. If its gets completed Ill post a video. Kids already don't like coming to the front door because its a pretty intense scene. These things will set me over the top.

I've added a jumping spider that also protrudes outward 30 inches as it raises 28. I'm building 2 of these zombie props, one to act like the videos I suggested another that will tear his head off and flail back and forth using pneumatics.

[gp02a0083]

as far as the randomization goes.

say you have 4 props

you would have a randomization from 1-4 and have something like

#define Prop1 = 1;
#define Prop2 = 2;
#define Prop1 = 3;
#define Prop2 = 4;


#include <iostream>
#include <ctime>
#include <cstdlib>
using namespace std;
int main()
{
srand((unsigned)time(0));
int random_integer;
int lowest=1, highest=4;
int range=(highest-lowest)+;
random_integer = lowest+int(range*rand()/(RAND_MAX + 1.0));
cout << random_integer << endl;
}

then you would have conditional if statements like

if (random_integer == Prop1)
{ activate prop1}
else

this should "randomize" an integer, show you the integer, then if the randomized integer is equal to what you defined your prop , then it will activate the prop. add a few delays and loop it back, with a little bit of work this snippet of code will work for yah

[2oodoor]

Ive always wanted to get in to this so Im glad I can observe...

[mykwikcoupe]

sweet, well this what i would ultimatly like to happen.
-When PIR is low(off) the arduino is playing a background sounds track from the ethernet shields sd card (lets call it track 1)
-The LEDs will be fading random colors slow fade but not at full intesity.

When the PIR is triggered,
-The single prop will play one of 3 scripted scerarios in any random order or in the same order doesnt really matter. Each scenario will be timed 20 seconds.
-The music played will change to the associated tracks, say 2-5 in relation to the scenario being played.
Scenario 1
-The Thrasher sequence starts.
-LEDS on the prop light.
-Music plays track 2.
-RGB LEDS change from random fade to solid green.
-Zombie eyes light up
Scenario 2
-Music plays track 3.
-Zombie eyes light
-RGB LEDS change to blue
-Instead of the thrasher program, both soleniod outputs are tied as a single so they work in unison with another. Timing will have to be played with.
Scenario 3
-Music plays track 4
-Zombie eyes light
-RGB LEDS change to white fast strobe (timing will be played with)
-evilusions program but faster to seems as zombie has gone from night of the living dead to dawn of the dead style


This is the original thrasher code but I believe its written in basic and needs to be translated into c/c++
Thrasher:
FOR idx = 1 TO 3
RANDOM lottery
NEXT
valves = lottery & %00000011

IF valves = last THEN Thrasher ' no repeats
last = valves ' save for next cycle

PINS = valves
RANDOM lottery
delay = lottery // 251 + 100
POT Adjust, 100, tAdj
tDelay = delay
tDelay = tDelay * tAdj / 255
delay = delay + tDelay
PAUSE delay
timer = timer + delay
IF timer < 10000 THEN Thrasher
GOTO Reset

here is the evilusions program but once again written into basic and needs to be changed to work with the arduino
SYMBOL Trigger = PIN6 ' ULN is pull-down
SYMBOL Audio = PIN5
SYMBOL LED = PIN3 ' use V+/OUT2 terminals
SYMBOL Shoulder2 = PIN1 ' use V+/OUT1 terminals
SYMBOL Shoulder1 = PIN0 ' use V+/OUT0 terminals


' -----[ Constants ]-------------------------------------------------------

SYMBOL IsOn = 1 ' for active-high in/out
SYMBOL IsOff = 0 ' put back to low/off

SYMBOL Yes = 1
SYMBOL No = 0

SYMBOL Baud = OT2400 ' baud serial
SYMBOL ThrashTime = 15000

' -----[ Variables ]-------------------------------------------------------

SYMBOL idx = B2
SYMBOL valves = B3
SYMBOL last = B4

SYMBOL delay = W3
SYMBOL timer = W4
SYMBOL lottery = W5


' -----[ Initialization ]--------------------------------------------------

Reset:
PINS = %00000000 ' preset IO pins
DIRS = %00000111 ' define IO pins

PAUSE 10000 ' 10s inter-show delay


' -----[ Program Code ]----------------------------------------------------

Main:
timer = 0 ' reset timer

Check_Trigger:
RANDOM lottery ' randomize lottery value
PAUSE 5 ' loop pad
timer = timer + 5 * Trigger ' inc or clear timer
IF timer < 100 THEN Check_Trigger ' wait for 0.1 sec input

Start_Audio:
Audio = IsOn
PAUSE 100
Audio = IsOff

LED = IsOn

Jump:
PINS = %00000011 ' both shoulders on
PAUSE 1000

Thrasher:
FOR idx = 1 TO 3 ' big stir
RANDOM lottery
NEXT
valves = lottery & %00000011

IF valves = last THEN Thrasher ' no repeats
last = valves ' save for next cycle

PINS = valves ' update should outputs
RANDOM lottery ' restir
delay = lottery // 251 + 100 ' delay 100 to 350 ms
PAUSE delay
timer = timer + delay ' update timer
IF timer < ThrashTime THEN Thrasher ' thrash for 10 seconds
GOTO Reset

My next step is to verify all the pins and get them standardized so tracking the program will be easier. Unfortunatly the pins listed in the 2 programs arent going to match mine.

If I have more time, id like to use another sensor to control another prop, much easier its mostly hardwired.

if thats all taken care of Ill have a 3rd prop similar to the 1st but much larger in scale. He will pull his head off and bend back and forth at the waist before reseting at the normal position.

[mykwikcoupe]

ROODOO, ITS ACTUALLY VERY EXCITING. Eevn with my many years of electrical knowledge and very limited electronics skills, the amount of tutorials and training materials posted on the web is huge. ive spent about a week reviewing code and reading various ways to write the code. Although i can honestly say i dont feel that i could write the code myself, i can say that its pretty easy to follow the sketches that have been scripted on other projects. im really enjoying it. I will also say that you may loose a few hours of sleep to experimentation.

[gp02a0083]

you got the idea mykwikcoupe. I would suggest ditching the old code, to me it looks like basic, but its been a long time since i looked at VB.

I would suggest drawing out a list and then work on a flow chart for each of the different functions that you want for each prop.

You are correct that not every snippet of code can be used without a problem, changing the micro controller to another one you will have to "re-map" everything to the right ports. The C++ language is good for this as it is object oriented, unlike Java which is still object oriented but is mainly used for GUI's. C++ is fairly easy to learn due to the fact it uses variable definitions that humans can set. Try doing stuff like that in assembly code, my coworker is so stuck on the assembly and its archaic. Takes like 30 lines of code in assembly to do a simple loop that C can do it in one or two lines.

you will need the data sheet for the micro-controller so that you get the right ports that you want. Most likely your gonna want to use a bunch of analog ports for your application.

[Buzo]

Did somebody say microcontrollers?

[Vanilla Sky]

Did somebody say microcontrollers?

Nope, I think they said that Buzo could help :P

[mykwikcoupe]

yes exactly. I'm starting to compile various codes from library stored sketches. I'm sure anyone with the background will stop and seriously LOL at what it looks like. I'm sure its way out of sequence. This thread could probably end up being super long if I post my entire sketch each time i ask for help. is there a way I could IM anyone here while I'm working on it and you could help walk me through it.

Here's what i have so far for the 1st part of the sketch. Its the PIR warming up for 30 seconds, eliminating false triggers and resetting after each use. I am also including a fade program to accent light the props when the PIR is low (not triggered). When the PIR changes to High I want to add a sequence to change the ambient LEDS to match the color for that sequence. I also need to somehow figure out how to add music. Id like to make it a header file but its going to sequence multiple tracks throughout the program. Anyways start laughing!!!!

//VARS
//the time we give the sensor to calibrate (30 secs according to the datasheet)
int calibrationTime = 30;

//the time when the sensor outputs a low impulse
long unsigned int lowIn;

//the amount of milliseconds the sensor has to be low
//before we assume all motion has stopped
long unsigned int pause = 5000;

boolean lockLow = true;
boolean takeLowTime;

int pirPin = 6; //the digital pin connected to the PIR sensor's output
int ledPin = 13; //onboard test led to check PIR function
int relay1pin = xx; //prop 1 solenoid 1
int relay2pin = xx; //prop 1 solenoid 2
int relay3pin = xx; //prop 2 solenoid 1
int relay4pin = xx; //prop 2 solenoid 2
int zombie1Redpin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Bluepin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Greenpin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1eyepin = xx; //prop 1 eye led
int zombie2Redpin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Bluepin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Greenpin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2eyespin = xx; //prop 2 eye led

/////////////////////////////
//SETUP
void setup(){
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(pirPin, INPUT);
pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
digitalWrite(pirPin, LOW);

//give the sensor some time to calibrate
Serial.print("calibrating sensor ");
for(int i = 0; i < calibrationTime; i++){
Serial.print(".");
delay(1000);
}
Serial.println(" done");
Serial.println("SENSOR ACTIVE");
delay(50);
}

////////////////////////////
//LOOP
void loop(){

if(digitalRead(pirPin) == HIGH){
digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); //the led visualizes the sensors output pin state
if(lockLow){
//makes sure we wait for a transition to LOW before any further output is made:
lockLow = false;
Serial.println("---");
Serial.print("motion detected at ");
Serial.print(millis()/1000);
Serial.println(" sec");
delay(50);
}
takeLowTime = true;
}

if(digitalRead(pirPin) == LOW){
digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW); //the led visualizes the sensors output pin state
//Is this where the code that randomizes the props sketches (posted above in a previous reply)would go as well?

if(takeLowTime){
lowIn = millis(); //save the time of the transition from high to LOW
takeLowTime = false; //make sure this is only done at the start of a LOW phase
}
//if the sensor is low for more than the given pause,
//we assume that no more motion is going to happen
if(!lockLow && millis() - lowIn > pause){
//makes sure this block of code is only executed again after
//a new motion sequence has been detected
lockLow = true;
Serial.print("motion ended at "); //output
Serial.print((millis() - pause)/1000);
Serial.println(" sec");
delay(50);
}
}
}

//This example shows how to fade an LED on pin 9, 10, 11 on zombie 1
//using the analogWrite() function.

float RGB1[3];
float RGB2[3];
float INC[3];

int red, green, blue;

int zombie1Redpin = 9; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Bluepin = 10; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Greenpin = 11; //prop 1 ambient led


void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600);
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] = random(256);
RGB2[x] = random(256); }

}

void loop()
{
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
INC[x] = (RGB1[x] - RGB2[x]) / 256; }

for (int x=0; x<256; x++) {

red = int(RGB1[0]);
green = int(RGB1[1]);
blue = int(RGB1[2]);

analogWrite (zombie1RedPin, red);
analogWrite (zombie1GreenPin, green);
analogWrite (zombie1BluePin, blue);
delay(250);

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] -= INC[x];}

}

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB2[x] = random(956)-700;
RGB2[x] = constrain(RGB2[x], 0, 255);

delay(1000);
}

//This example shows how to fade an LED on pin xx, xx, xx on zombie 2
//using the analogWrite() function.

float RGB1[3];
float RGB2[3];
float INC[3];




int red, green, blue;




int zombie2Redpin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie2Bluepin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie2Greenpin = xx; //prop 1 ambient led





void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600);
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] = random(256);
RGB2[x] = random(256); }




}

void loop()
{
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
INC[x] = (RGB1[x] - RGB2[x]) / 256; }

for (int x=0; x<256; x++) {

red = int(RGB1[0]);
green = int(RGB1[1]);
blue = int(RGB1[2]);




analogWrite (zombie2RedPin, red);
analogWrite (zombie2GreenPin, green);
analogWrite (zombie2BluePin, blue);
delay(250);




for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] -= INC[x];}

}

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB2[x] = random(956)-700;
RGB2[x] = constrain(RGB2[x], 0, 255);

delay(1000);
}
as you can see one is written in one format, the other in another. I understand what each sketch is trying to accomplish but don't understand how they could be written in different syntax and both still work. I guess that's the brains of computers. I don't know if all my integers have to be at the top of the 1st sketch or if they can be written throughout the sketch at each step when needed for the 1st time. Ill fill in the 'XX' values when the boards show up and i can solidly confirm the accurate pins. I have them written down at work so maybe Ill edit the thread in the morning to reflect the proper values. Just to confirm, an output is an output no matter what the output is. I was planning on using the PWM outputs as speaker outputs to self powered speakers located on the props. I can in theory play multiple tracks located on the onboard sd card at the same time as the chipset is only performing the function of an output. Sorry its so long and I'm a noob. I can reply to the post 20+ times a day if you want to help expedite the process. I check it very often. I am watching many tutorials as well. The current one is How to write in CPP.

[mykwikcoupe]

//This example shows how to fade an LED on pin 9, 10, 11 on zombie 1
//using the analogWrite() function.

float RGB1[3];
float RGB2[3];
float INC[3];

int red, green, blue, red1, green1, blue1;

int zombie1Redpin = 9; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Bluepin = 10; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Greenpin = 11; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie2Redpin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Bluepin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Greenpin = xx; //prop 2 ambient led



void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600);
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] = random(256);
RGB2[x] = random(256); }

}

void loop()
{
randomSeed(analogRead(0));

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
INC[x] = (RGB1[x] - RGB2[x]) / 256; }

for (int x=0; x<256; x++) {

red = int(RGB1[0]);
green = int(RGB1[1]);
blue = int(RGB1[2]);
red1 = int(RGB1[3]);
blue1 = int(RGB1[4]);
green1 = int(RGB1[5]);

analogWrite (zombie1RedPin, red);
analogWrite (zombie1GreenPin, green);
analogWrite (zombie1BluePin, blue);
analogWrite (zombie2RedPin, red1);
analogWrite (zombie2GreenPin, green1);
analogWrite (zombie2BluePin, blue1);

delay(250);

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB1[x] -= INC[x];}

}

for (int x=0; x<3; x++) {
RGB2[x] = random(956)-700;
RGB2[x] = constrain(RGB2[x], 0, 255);

delay(1000);
}
could the above listed code be relabeled like this to randomize both sets of RGB on the props?

[Buzo]

Could you please tell me details about your hardware? Put a link, pictures, schematics, or anything to help me understand how your controller looks like. I did read your code and I was able to understand it and follow the sequence.

Next reply you can use the # (wrap code) above to keep the indents of your code

for(x=0;x<30;x++) {
    do_something
}

[mykwikcoupe]

http://www.sainsmart.com/evaluation-...8u2-w5100.html
That is the board and ethernet shield will be using. It says its based on the arduino mega board style so that is what i have been using to gather pin data.

http://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/ArduinoBoardMega2560
That is the information on the arduino mega. My kit hasnt physically shown up yet.

http://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/ArduinoEthernetShield
That is the arduino ethernet shield as well. Once again, it was purchased for the ability to use the sd card to store music files to be played throughout each sequence.

[Buzo]

Wow, that board is great! It does the same I do but I have to build the board from scratch for every application.

Now tell me, Have you practiced the "blinking LED" example with this board? I assume yes, but if not, its good idea to start from there to make sure your programmer and connections are OK.

Sorry, I just read that you haven't received the board. So you know what's going to be the first step.

int ledPin = 13;                 // LED connected to digital pin 13

void setup()
{
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);      // sets the digital pin as output
}

void loop()
{
  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);   // sets the LED on
  delay(1000);                  // waits for a second
  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);    // sets the LED off
  delay(1000);                  // waits for a second
}

[mykwikcoupe]

Yes exactly. I have a series of about 15 indivodual programs to try. I have the concept and the wiring knowhow. If I knew the program code id be set. I wanted to biy the actual arduino boards the prive was about double

[mykwikcoupe]

#include <iostream>
#include <ctime>
#include <cstdlib>

int pirPin = 6;
int ledpin = 13;
int relay1pin = 21; //solenoid 1
int relay2pin = 22; //solenoid 2
int relay3pin = 23; //solenoid 3
int relay4pin = 24; //solenoid 4

void setup(){
pinMode(pirPin, INPUT);
pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay1pin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay2pin, OUTPUT)
pinMode (relay3pin OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay4pin OUTPUT);

#define relay1 = 1;
#define relay2 = 2;
#define relay3 = 3;
#define relay4 = 4;


int main()

srand((unsigned)time(0));
int random_integer;
int lowest=1, highest=4;
int range=(highest-lowest)+;
random_integer = lowest+int(range*rand()/(RAND_MAX + 1.0));
cout << random_integer << endl;
}

void loop()
{

if (random_integer == relay1)
(activate prop1)

if (random_integer == relay2)
(activate prop2)

if (random_integer == relay3)
(activate prop3)

if (random_integer == relay4)
(activate prop4)
}
else

this is what i have come up with so far. Obviously i have changed the naming convention.

In the end sequence, is that correct or should it say

else
if (activate prop) sequence?

should my relay1-4 be labelled to be relay1pin etc to match the naming convention the entire way through?

under the srand((unsigned)time(0));, cant his be changed to any random delay? the way im reading this, the relays will click with instantaneos time delay. Can i make this any value to match the needs of the program?

Thank you for the help. This code has been verified for proper format but i cant verify functionality as my equipment hasnt shown up yet.

[Buzo]

should my relay1-4 be labelled to be relay1pin etc to match the naming convention the entire way through?

No because Relay1-4 are constants and relay1pin are variables.
It doesn't matter how you name stuff, as long as you remember it as your program grows up.

under the srand((unsigned)time(0));, cant his be changed to any random delay?

I would need to check how this random generator works, but basically you use a random generator to get any value between 1 and 4 repeated through the time with no specific order or pattern. I understand you want to introduce a delay to the equation, so besides the random order, you would like a random delay between generated numbers, right?

..the relays will click with instantaneos time delay.

No, only the prop equals to the randomly generated value will be activated.

Something that I guess is missing is that you need to deactivate a prop that was activated in the step before, unless you want them all at the same time, but still you need to add something to your code to deactivate them.

for instance:

if (random_integer == relay1)
(activate prop1)
(deactivate prop2)
(deactivate prop3)
(deactivate prop4)

if (random_integer == relay2)
(activate prop2)
(deactivate prop1)
(deactivate prop3)
(deactivate prop4)

if (random_integer == relay3)
(activate prop3)
(deactivate prop2)
(deactivate prop1)
(deactivate prop4)

if (random_integer == relay4)
(activate prop4)
(deactivate prop2)
(deactivate prop3)
(deactivate prop1)

[mykwikcoupe]

Yes the random delay would be nice as well. I suppose it would ha e a maximumvalue or 3 seconds and a minimum value of 250ms. Thats great. Thanks for the help

[mykwikcoupe]

randOn = random (100, 3000); // generate ON time between 0.1 and 3 seconds
randOff = random (200, 3000); // generate OFF time between 0.2 and 3 seconds
digitalWrite(relay1-4, HIGH); // sets the relay on
delay(randOn); // waits for a random time while ON
digitalWrite(relay1-4, LOW); // sets the relay off
delay(randOff); // waits for a random time while OFF

would this work as a random delay on and off work? Im not sure if it can be as simple as placing the (min, max) and be done or if you need a comparison (min, max, 100, 3000)? Ive also read that you can do a random seed but that looks a bit on the complex side as well.

Could this also be written into the program as:
if (random_integer == relay1);
(relay1 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay2 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay3 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay4 == low);
delay(randOff);

if (random_integer == relay2);
(relay2 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay1 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay3 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay4 == low);
delay(randOff);

(would these be separated by (if) or (else)

Sorry if Im asking improper questions or if non of this makes sense. Im entering my second week of research and training on my own with alot of internet help and co worker help.

[mykwikcoupe]

#include <iostream>
#include <ctime>
#include <cstdlib>

int pirPin = 6; //the digital pin connected to the PIR sensor's output
int ledPin = 13; //onboard test led to check PIR function
int relay1pin = 21; //solenoid 1
int relay2pin = 22; //solenoid 2
int relay3pin = 23; //solenoid 3
int relay4pin = 24; //solenoid 4
int zombie1Redpin = 9; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Bluepin = 10; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1Greenpin = 11; //prop 1 ambient led
int zombie1eyepin = 12; //prop 1 eye led
int zombie2Redpin = 50; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Bluepin = 51; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2Greenpin = 52; //prop 2 ambient led
int zombie2eyespin = 53; //prop 2 eye led

//VARS
//the time we give the sensor to calibrate (30 secs according to the datasheet)
int calibrationTime = 30;

//the time when the sensor outputs a low impulse
long unsigned int lowIn;

//the amount of milliseconds the sensor has to be low
//before we assume all motion has stopped
long unsigned int pause = 5000;

boolean lockLow = true;
boolean takeLowTime;



/////////////////////////////
//SETUP
void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(pirPin, INPUT);
pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
digitalWrite(pirPin, LOW);
pinMode(pirPin, INPUT);
pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay1pin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay2pin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay3pin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (relay4pin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie1Redpin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie1Bluepin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie1Greenpin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie1eyepin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie2Redpin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie2Bluepin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie2Greenpin, OUTPUT);
pinMode (zombie2eyespin, OUTPUT);


//give the sensor some time to calibrate
Serial.print("calibrating sensor ");
for(int i = 0; i < calibrationTime; i++)
Serial.print(".");
delay(1000);

Serial.println(" done");
Serial.println("SENSOR ACTIVE");
delay(50);
}

////////////////////////////
//LOOP
void loop(){

if(digitalRead(pirPin) == HIGH)
digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); //the led visualizes the sensors output pin state
if(lockLow)
//makes sure we wait for a transition to LOW before any further output is made:
lockLow = false;
Serial.println("---");
Serial.print("motion detected at ");
Serial.print(millis()/1000);
Serial.println(" sec");
delay(50);

takeLowTime = true;


if(digitalRead(pirPin) == LOW)
digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW); //the led visualizes the sensors output pin state
//Is this where the code that randomizes the props sketches (posted above in a previous reply)would go as well?

if(takeLowTime)
lowIn = millis(); //save the time of the transition from high to LOW
takeLowTime = false; //make sure this is only done at the start of a LOW phase

//if the sensor is low for more than the given pause,
//we assume that no more motion is going to happen
if(!lockLow && millis() - lowIn > pause)
//makes sure this block of code is only executed again after
//a new motion sequence has been detected
lockLow = true;
Serial.print("motion ended at "); //output
Serial.print((millis() - pause)/1000);
Serial.println(" sec");
delay(50);



#define relay1 = 1;
#define relay2 = 2;
#define relay3 = 3;
#define relay4 = 4;


int main();

srand((unsigned)time(0));
int random_integer;
int lowest=1, highest=4;
int range=(highest-lowest)+;
random_integer = lowest+int(range*rand()/(RAND_MAX + 1.0));
cout << random_integer << endl;


if (random_integer == relay1);
(relay1 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay2 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay3 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay4 == low);
delay(randOff);

if (random_integer == relay2);
(relay2 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay1 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay3 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay4 == low);
delay(randOff);

if (random_integer == relay3);
(relay1 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay1 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay2 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay4 == low);
delay(randOff);

if (random_integer == relay4);
(relay4 == high);
delay(randOn);
(relay1 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay2 == low);
delay(randOff);
(relay3 == low);
delay(randOff);
}
Thats what I have currently. Does it make sense and will it work. I think what someone needs to create is a arduino gui simulator that you can real time load and test to without physically wiring anything. It would have to assume all electrical connects are correct. It would add another layer to troubleshooting.

[Buzo]

You are going to need to separate your code in several stages and test each one at the time.

For instance, I'm am working right now modifying a piece of equipment where I need to send several information through a serial cable to a remote LCD. There is one micro inside the cabinet and another 10 feet away in the LCD.

1) I first assured I could program my controllers individually
2) Then I worked in the controller of the LCD. I draw stuff into the LCD just to make sure I can access every single corner of the screen.
3) Then the serial communication from the Equipment to my computer
4) The serial communication from the LCD to my computer
5) the serial communication between the two controllers.

I don't have sensors connected yet, I simulate the presence of a sensor with software, sensor=1 or sensor=0 until I get the code to flow as I want, then I test the outputs of the sensors with the voltmeter to make sure they are sending the correct signal. and finally connect the sensors to the controllers.

Write small routines like turning ON one output by one, then turn them off.
Then add delays, like the standard off delay contacts you are familiar width.
Make your controller to communicate with your computer if possible, so you "see" what the controller is doing. Send messages like "activating PORT1..." etc.

Leave the random stuff for the end, one usually want to know how long a contact should be ON or OFF, and using random numbers they will just be ON and OFF like crazy.

I think you are doing a good progress here. You will see how fun is to have stuff doing what you imagined exactly as you imagined it.

[mykwikcoupe]

my coworker calls it a video game. You may not know if you are winning or losing till the end but it really is a great game to play.

I understand what your saying I will do that when my stuff shows up. Until then, does it make sense in code speak? Does it look correct? I can only go off what I have read and watched on youtube but that doesn't necessarily make the original code writers good at writing code. I would agree that i am probably biting off more then I chew but if it looks that I am progressing in the right direction then I am happy.

I really appreciate the help. does it seem that the syntacs from one section to the next are flowing correctly? The best I have to go from is the arduino ide gui. Its a very basic compiler. It will correct format if there are no errors and will help you to debug. That being said it doesnt write the code for you. I still have a ton to learn such as how to use a header file to be able to delete the bulk of the code.

In the end I purchase the mega to be able to expand and control the halloween setting dynamically. I have 8 analog inputs and near limitless digitals. Id like to have this one device control everything. I dont think that will happen before next years show.

I will try to individualize the sequences. does the random soleniod code look good? how do you add music reference to the code? Thats going to be my last step as its the one Ive spent the least time researching.

Back to my video game.

[Buzo]

Your code sequences look correct to me!

After searching over and over about C I found this site: http://publications.gbdirect.co.uk/c_book/ with all you need to know about programming. You don't need to read it all, but if you have syntax issues when compiling you can go here and find how to properly write a for-next, an if-else, a do-while.

Tell me more about the rest of your hardware, Are you going to use 5V relays to activate your solenoids? How many pneumatic cylinders for each prop? Are all the lights for 5V or do you have some for 110V?

I watched the videos you posted, they are very scaring by the way!

[mykwikcoupe]

int ranNum;
int ranDel;
void setup() {
// Seed RNG from analog port.
randomSeed(analogRead(0));
// Setup 4 output ports for Relays
pinMode(21, OUTPUT);
pinMode(22, OUTPUT);
pinMode(23, OUTPUT);
pinMode (24, OUTPUT);
}
void loop() {
//Generate random number between 21 and 24
ranNum=random(21,24);
// Generate random delay time
ranDel=random(25,300);
//Turn on the Relay
digitalWrite(ranNum, HIGH);
delay(ranDel);
//Turn off the Relay
digitalWrite(ranNum, LOW);
}

It works, my first sketch and it works. I sure am glad arduino has a huge backbone of resources behind it. No way I could ever figure this out on my own.
Credit for the build:
http://www.meanpc.com/2012/01/random...o-project.html

[gp02a0083]

its nice to see others here on the board with some micro-controller knowledge. This is stuff I'm learning at work from an assembly language and C code point of view

[mykwikcoupe]

i looked into assembly language. Its nice to know the LONG hand version of writing and how these programs originally got written and how easy is it now that you can include header files and pre scripted codes.

I played with it a bit more afterwards. Ive got fading leds that will eventually turn into color changing LEDS. I need to include the ambient LEDS that turn on with the program but that shouldnt be too hard I hope. Its really nice to be able to see it work as well.