Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
ally through available data. In response to the lack of available data about radiation levels
in Japan after the Tohoku earthquake in 2011, which resulted in a tsunami and a nuclear
plant (Fukushima Diaichi) meltdown, Safecast developed a platform for a distributed
sensor network to collect and map radioactivity data. Safecast distributes and sells open
source hardware Geiger counters (
Figure 10.7
) to measure radiation levels, and it has de-
veloped its own mapping platform online that makes it easy for individuals to contribute
to and freely use the radiation level data. Since 2011, when Safecast was founded, Sa-
fecast and its community of users have amassed more than 15 million data points.
Through open source hardware and open access to information, Safecast has been able to
create a distributed sensor network and amass large amounts of useful environmental data
for global communities. Its design files include templates for laser-cut plates, an API for
data, and pre-uploaded board files (sent to OSH Park) for easy manufacture.
(Source: Image CC-BY Safecast)
Figure 10.7
Safecast Small Parts Assembly Guide designed by Jurgen Westerhoff.
