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Introduction

Astra: Safely Launch Fireworks with Raspberry Pis​

Astra is an innovative application designed to simplify and enhance the process of launching fireworks for special events, such as the annual 3rd of July finale show. With Astra, you can automate the ignition of aerial mortars, eliminating the need for manual wick taping and ensuring a safer and more captivating fireworks display. What sets Astra apart is its utilization of affordable Raspberry Pi systems, making automated firework systems accessible to the general consumer.

Key Features and Benefits​

  • User-Friendly Interface: Astra provides a simple shell script interface that allows users to visualize and manage the available fireworks for firing.

  • Manual and Sequential Firing: Users have the flexibility to manually fire fireworks one by one or generate a sequence for automated ignition. With the sequence functionality, Astra ensures that fireworks are launched in a planned order, reducing the risk of clashes and rebounds.

  • Cost-Effective Solution: By leveraging inexpensive Raspberry Pi systems and Pyroboom's Red Dragon igniters, Astra offers an affordable alternative to expensive automated firework systems, making it accessible to a wider range of users.

Software​

Astra is built using the following software technologies and libraries:

  • Python: A popular programming language used for the core functionality of Astra.
  • AsyncIO: A Python library for asynchronous programming that enables concurrent execution of tasks.
  • Aiohttp: A Python library for making HTTP requests asynchronously.
  • IPaddress: A Python library for handling IP addresses and networks.
  • Collections: A built-in Python module that provides specialized container datatypes.
  • Deque: A collection class in Python that allows efficient append and pop operations from both ends.
  • Urllib: A Python module for handling URLs, used for parsing and manipulating URLs.
  • Re: A built-in Python module for working with regular expressions.
  • Random: A built-in Python module for generating random numbers and sequences.
  • FireworkUtils: A custom module that provides utility functions for printing and parsing in the Astra application.
  • FireworkModules: A custom module that defines the data structures and classes used in the Astra application.

Hardware Components​

Astra utilizes the following hardware components:

  • Raspberry Pi Pico W: A compact microcontroller board used as the central control unit in the firework ignition system.
  • Industrial Pico Relay B Modules: Relay modules that allow for controlling up to 8 different relays, enabling communication between the Raspberry Pi systems and the igniters.
  • 9V Batteries: Power sources for the Raspberry Pi Pico W and relay devices.
  • Pyroboom Red Dragon Igniters: Reliable and precise igniters used for initiating the firework ignition process.

For more detailed information about the hardware components, please visit the Astra Hardware Components Documentation.

Use Cases​

  • Special Events: Astra is ideal for organizing and executing firework displays for special events such as Independence Day celebrations, New Year's Eve parties, weddings, and other festive occasions.

  • Community Gatherings: Astra can be used by community organizations or local authorities to create captivating firework shows that bring people together and enhance community spirit.

  • Private Firework Enthusiasts: Firework enthusiasts can leverage Astra to add excitement and creativity to their personal firework displays. Astra's user-friendly interface allows them to plan and execute their desired sequences with ease.

  • Firework Vendors: Firework vendors can benefit from Astra by demonstrating the capabilities of different fireworks to potential buyers. The automated firing system can showcase the effects and timing of each firework, assisting customers in making informed purchasing decisions.

Astra revolutionizes the way firework displays are executed, enabling affordable and safe automation with the use of Raspberry Pis. With its user-friendly interface, precise control, and cost-effective nature, Astra empowers users to create stunning firework shows that leave a lasting impression.

Last updated on by Tyler York