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Friday, June 6, 2014

Build this GPS-Logging Harness and Track Your Pet's Movements


If you've ever wondered where your dog actually went when they're running around in the park, or what your cat is doing while you're sleeping, this GPS-logging harness, packed with wearable electronics, can put it all on a map for you. Best of all, you could wear it yourself.


The video above walks you through the project. When you're done, you'll have a GPS-logging kit that you can attach to an existing pet harness. Adafruit's Becky Stern (who you may remember from her How I Work) uses it to get a bird's eye view on how far her dog roams when she goes to the park. At the core of the setup is the sewable, Arduino-compatible Adafruit FLORA and its GPS module. Some conductive thread, some batteries, and some clear vinyl for water resistance, and you're ready for the great outdoors.


Once you've collected some data (aka, let your pet off to run and play), connect your computer to the FLORA and download the stored GPS data. Then, plot it on a map to see how far your pup ran, or how much time your cat spent exploring. If you prefer self-tracking, you could switch the system up and use it to roll your own fitness tracker or GPS logging device to see where your own travels take you on an ordinary day, without handing that data off to someone else.


Granted, the system isn't useful for finding a lost pet or tracking your pet in real time. You have to have physical access to the harness in order to download GPS data. However, if you've how many more miles your dog puts on than you do, or you're curious about the secret life of your cat, this project is for you. Hit the link below for the full walkthrough and parts list.


GPS Logging Dog Harness | Adafruit Learning System


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