coconut

Raspberry Pi-powers DIY autonomous underwater vehicle

It seems creativity knows no bounds when it comes to the Raspberry Pi. The $25 credit card-size computer has turned mixologist, powered an R2-D2 toy robot, and was even sent into near space.

Now, thanks to a group of National University of Singapore engineering undergraduates, the Raspberry Pi has also conquered water. Dubbed the Coconut Pi, the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) uses the Raspberry Pi for memory-intensive functions, while it relies on Arduino for precise control. … Read more

Trotify kit puts Monty Python horse coconuts on your bike

Every time I watch "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," I insult along with the French knight, sing Sir Robin's praises, and fervently wish I had a coconut to add horse-trotting sound effects to my life.

Design studio Original Content London has figured out how to bring the sounds of Monty Python-style equine movement to bicycles. Trotify is a wood kit that mounts on the front of a bike. As you pedal, the tire triggers Trotify to clomp a coconut up and down. You'll have to provide your own minstrel and squire. … Read more

Has Ford gone cuckoo for coconuts?

Ford today announced it is partnering with the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company to research how coconut coir, or husks, might be used as a plastic reinforcement.

According to Ford, the fiber from coconut coir is being used by Scotts Miracle-Gro as a carrier for its soils and grass seed products. The fiber holds 50 percent more water than basic potting soil.

Ford is looking at the same fibers to combine with plastic and deliver more reinforcement to vehicle parts and also cutting down on the need for petroleum.

"This is a win-win situation. We're taking a material that is … Read more