2022 Cyberdeck Contest: The Black Beast Will Assist You Survive A Robotic Apocalypse

With AI techniques getting smarter, one would possibly surprise if they might someday evolve right into a Skynet-like clever system and attempt to take over the world. We’re undecided how shut we’re to such a state of affairs, however we do know that if the robotic apocalypse have been to occur, we would prefer to be near it. [LordOfAllThings], which might most likely result in the Black Beast. This scary-sounding machine is, in essence, a Raspberry Pi-based laptop computer constructed inside an out of doors briefcase, full with a big selection of bizarre peripherals that make it the digital equal of a Swiss Military knife. In different phrases, it’s a cyber platform created for the tip occasions, and no matter comes after.

For instance, an array of ESP32-based modules plus an SDR module will let you intercept and analyze communications from hostile robots, whether or not they’re utilizing Bluetooth, WiFi, LoRaWAN, or something within the 433 or 868 MHz ranges. FM radio is helpful for reaching fellow residents caught with nothing greater than an analog radio receiver, whereas a collection of environmental sensors (together with a Geiger counter) ought to assist decide if Skynet has launched any noxious substances to get rid of these final annoying people. (Editor’s observe: There aren’t any marigolds within the promised land and all that.)

For those who handle to discover a wired Ethernet connection someplace, a built-in five-port gigabit router allows you to arrange an area community, clearly with a customized community analyzer to detect any undesirable intrusions. A storage compartment holds all types of cables you would possibly want, in addition to helpful devices like flashlights and, certainly, an actual Swiss military knife.

Naturally, Black Beast can run on any energy supply you could find, from varied AC mains voltages to the 12~48V DC present in automotive batteries and photo voltaic panels. A built-in 12 Ah lead-acid battery additionally offers you loads of autonomy: a variety of voltage and present displays, in addition to an clever energy distribution system allow you to handle energy flows all through the Black Beast.

The primary consumer interfaces connected to the Pi are a ten.1″ Full-HD monitor and a Logitech K400 keyboard/touchpad unit. All parts are constructed into 3D printed plug-in modules that match neatly inside customized slots within the carry case.

STL information and an in depth checklist of parts can be found in case you need to create your personal; Apart from doomsday eventualities, such a machine would positively turn out to be useful for issues like upkeep and debugging equipment within the subject.

There shall be others on the market with rugged Raspberry Pi laptops: the Militarish Pi, for instance, or this waterproof SDR machine. If wi-fi gremlins are your essential concern, then the Pwnton package deal may be helpful.