R2D2 Dome Hardware Scratch Build Mounting Brackets

Mounting all the hardware into the R2D2 dome is always a challenge. If making them yourself, here is one method. I used sheet metal with bending tools and a dremel.

Here is an example of the mounts I made to secure parts for the dome.  I cut strips of sheet metal, drilled a small hole on one end and made a slot in the other.  The sheet metal is than bent into an “L” shape with the hole being on the shorter side.  I made screw holes in the PSI’s and threaded a bolt through the back side.  These will eventually be mounted to captive studs in the dome.

PSI Mounts
PSI mounts

For my holoprojector, I cut a hole big enough to fit the PVC tube made for the Holoprojector. I measured carefully and bent the metal into a half rectangle with “L”‘s on the ends for mounting.

Static Holoprojector Mount
Static Holoprojector mount

Arduino Micro Controller for the Lights

Arduino

The Arduino can be used for many things when It comes to R2.  The lights is a good reason to use one, as it makes them flash and do all sorts of interesting things.  I have the Arduino Pro Mini and it only cost about $10.  This is extremely inexpensive for something that does so much for our little droid.

Arduino
Arduino and FTDI Breakout

You will see above is the Arduino Pro Mini and attached to that in red is the FTDI Break out, used for uploading a sketch to  the Arduino.  The sketch controls the lights and what they do.