Could you add a readme?

[Tejeev]

Something basic pointing to an instructable or a primer on what is in this repo/how it is organized and even just other sources for figuring out how to use it?

I was thinking about it and it might be nice to have discussions enabled so we could have discorse on things like different sensors we've tried and the lessons learned while making it for ourselves.

[Tejeev]

I know you're working on a readme, but a basic outline like the following might just be good filler for now and take some of the pressure off:

PiLiDAR-Hardware

This repository contains the hardware design files and related resources for the PiLiDAR project.

Overview

PiLiDAR-Hardware is part of the PiLiDAR initiative and provides all the necessary hardware documentation, schematics, and resources needed for building and developing with PiLiDAR systems.

Repository Structure

• CAD/: CAD design files for PiLiDAR hardware components.
  • View and edit with FreeCAD or KiCad.
• Datasheets/: Datasheets for hardware components used in the project.
• FDM/: Files related to Fused Deposition Modeling (3D printing).
  • Open, view, or slice with Ultimaker Cura or PrusaSlicer.
• Fritzing/: Fritzing project files and diagrams for prototyping.
  • Explore with the Fritzing application.
• images/: Reference images and diagrams.
• .gitignore: Git configuration to exclude certain files/folders from version control.
• LICENSE.md: License information for this project.

Getting Started

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone https://github.com/PiLiDAR/PiLiDAR-Hardware.git

2. Explore the hardware design files and documentation in the repository.

License

This project is licensed under the terms described in LICENSE.md.

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please open an issue or submit a pull request if you have suggestions or improvements.

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For more information, see:

• PiLiDAR organization on GitHub: https://github.com/PiLiDAR
• Ongoing discussion on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/LiDAR/comments/1hs6byu/pilidar_the_diy_opensource_3d_scanner_is_now/

[Tejeev]

Not sure this is a good readme or not. Just thought it migh thelp.

[Tejeev]

soooo... I have to use them to stay competitive at work and thought I'd feed your BOM comment through an LLM and it spat out the following section we can add in..
I fixed some basic obvious ai trash, but it invented a bit there at the end that might or may not be accurate. If it actually looks accurate, may save you some bandwidth/work.

Sorry, maybe should have asked before feeding a reddit comment through CoPilot, but if you're open to AI assistance, figured I could tack this on the PR for the Readme..

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Bill of Materials (BOM) & Cost Estimates

Building the PiLiDAR hardware is straightforward if you have access to a 3D printer and a soldering iron. Below you’ll find the key components, approximate prices, and some notes for alternatives and assembly.

Key Components

Part	Example / Note	Est. Cost (USD)
Raspberry Pi 4	$60? (Or remix 3D files for Pi 5 if preferred)	~$60
Lidar Module	Waveshare STL27L ($160), or D500 / LD19 (~$80, but with less resolution and range)	$80–$160
Fisheye Camera Module	e.g. Raspberry Pi HQ camera + Arducam M12 fisheye lens & printed adapter, or OV5647 5MP module	$15–$50
Stepper Motor	Short NEMA17 (e.g. from stepperonline.com)	~$12

Additional Parts (Inexpensive & Easy to Source)

Part	Note (Example)	Est. Cost (USD)
A4988 Stepper Driver	Motor driver	~$2
Powerbank	E.g. Intenso 15000mAh	$15–$30
DC-DC Step-Up Converter (e.g. LM2577)	Converts 5V to 9V for stepper driver	~$3
Push Buttons (2x)	For power and start	<$1
Connectors (2, 3, 4 pin male/female)	E.g. JST PH2.0	~$2
UNC ¼" Screw Nut	For tripod mount	~$1

Most parts can be sourced from electronics suppliers or online retailers. Prices may vary by region and supplier.

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Notes

• 3D Printing:
  The enclosure (front, back, mid-section, and planetary gearbox) is designed to be printed in PETG for durability. PLA can be used but is less robust. If you don’t have a 3D printer, consider asking a friend or using a maker space.
• Soldering:
  A basic soldering iron is required for wiring buttons, connectors, and power lines.
• Customization:
  Feel free to remix the 3D files to suit your chosen Raspberry Pi model or powerbank size.

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Quick Assembly Steps

1. Print the enclosure and gearbox components.
2. Solder and assemble the electronics according to your preferred wiring layout.
3. Install the Raspberry Pi, Lidar module, camera, and stepper motor.
4. Wire up the stepper driver, boost converter, buttons, and connectors.
5. Mount everything inside the enclosure and secure with the tripod nut.

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A full BOM with part numbers and suppliers will be added soon! Building PiLiDAR is very approachable—just gather the components above, print the parts, and follow the upcoming detailed assembly guide.