By utilizing an electronic magnetometer and twelve LED’s connected to an arduino lilypad microcontroller, the navigational lighting maintains high accuracy for the user. One AAA size and one 9V battery are the power sources. The components are housed in flexible waterproof foam padding with thin black ABS plastic edge support to shield the direct light of the LED’s. The exterior of the assembly references the main zipper and pocket fold lines of the jacket: it is sewn in to achieve full integration and durability. When batteries need to be changed the badge can be opened up with access to all components including the arduino microcontroller for recalibration of the compass if necessary.
Light emitted by the navigational badge dims as the wearer turns from north to south.
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North Star
North Star is a weather-proof jacket integrated with a light emitting badge for nocturnal guidance intended for hikers and travelers in unfamiliar areas. As the wearer faces north the badge grows brighter, turning south dims the light gradually until it turns off completely when facing directly south. This simple dimming feature allows the user to maintain a constant heading by establishing the associated brightness. Light emitted from the jacket also helps the wearer see their way and be seen by others in the dark.
