Aug 5, 2013
4SUPER9 Great. I hope you will be offering it as a kit soon. Can't wait for the beta testers to post their experiences.�
Aug 5, 2013
The Fury Great!!�
Aug 5, 2013
zax123 Hey Rick!
The video looks awesome, I can't wait to install it. I think 10 LEDs will be plenty. In the video, anyway, the 18 LEDs look super bright. I'm pretty sure the brightness is amplified by the camera.
Now that you've had a chance to play with the new controller, I was wondering if you were able to test something... I know the unit has a memory feature whereby it goes back into the mode it was last in when turned on from the remote, but can you make it automatically TURN ON and go back to the last setting when 12V is applied to the power wires?
I'm wondering because I want to not have to physically press a button on the remote control whenever I turn on the car...
Thanks!
Rob�
Aug 5, 2013
artsci I'm not sure but I'll bench test it with an LED strip. Doing it now.
- - - Updated - - -
Just tested it. I'm happy to report that it works. This means, for example, that if the controller interface is wired to the headlight switch, it will always turn on to the setting is was on when the headlights were turned off. No need to push any buttons on the controller.�
Aug 5, 2013
nkohlimd Wiring to the headlight switch/circuit would be one option. another would be to wire it to constant power, select the mode you want but attach a photosensitive cell to the circuit so it goes on in the dark. Trying to figure out the light circuit. Will run it by my installer who did the radar detector install and post as soon as I get some ideas.�
Aug 5, 2013
zax123 That's amazing news! Thank you! !�
Aug 5, 2013
NJ Rob Amazing. Absolutely amazing. Can't wait for the other beta testers to green light this, so the remaining jealous readers of this thread have a shot at ordering a kit.
�
Aug 5, 2013
rodricklitch Put me on the signature list!�
Aug 5, 2013
Lloyd Anyone prefer a fixed brightness that just comes on with the headlights? While cool, I'm not sure I want to fiddle with a remote everytime I want to use the front logo light. Don't get me wrong, I love what you are doing. It's really great.
Also, I had a thought, while you are in the car, you can't see what the logo is doing. Would it b e prudent to have a low intensity indicator light in the cockpit someplace?�
Aug 5, 2013
artsci This is what I'm hoping the testers will do -- make their own enhancements that will further the capabilities of the basic hardware.�
Aug 5, 2013
olanmills It would be cool if you could wire it so that it came on whenever the parking lights or headlights were on.�
Aug 6, 2013
zax123 That's actually what I'd like to do. In past cars, the parking lights were on whenever the headlights were on, so I just had to wire in to the parking lights. In the past, though, I had an electrical manual for the car... I wish one existed for the Tesla. I feel a bit blind poking around in there in a $100k+ car, and that's a tad unnerving.
I'll likely wire an automotive relay to a wire that goes high when the lights are on, to isolate the circuit from the LED controller. I know there's likely plenty enough of current on the lights circuit, but I'd rather isolate and use a tap-a-fuse.
That's the plan anyway, we'll see how it goes.
I love the idea of having an indicator inside the cockpit. The only place I'd be willing to "violate" would be either somewhere around the cubby, or where the USB ports are located. Otherwise, I'm scared to make any holes anywhere else...
We'll see!
Rob�
Aug 6, 2013
artsci The indicator would be very cool. I think it could be done with a single LED and its leads soldered to one of the led pads on the PCB and run back to the cockpit.�
Aug 6, 2013
Zextraterrestrial Depending on your dash material, it would be easy to do something to the left panel next to the steering wheel. That is where I plan on mounting a pedestrian horn button. I have lacewood and was thinking it would be easy enough to cut a bit it I needed to
probably not the best spot for a light indicator but for rockets/ oil slick / smokescreen buttons, maybe�
Aug 11, 2013
artsci Four test kits ship tomorrow, so soon others will have this modification.
nkohlimd found a source that may be able to mass produce a lighted T at a very reasonable price so he and I are looking into it and will keep everyone posted on what we find.�
Aug 19, 2013
artsci Haven't updated this thread in a while. The interactions with the testers has resulted in some major changes in plans for the lighted T, even though none have installed the old model yet, fortunately.
Here's where we stand. The revised approach will involve 3D printing of a hollow T and arch that will have space for miniature LED strips. This will make possible much more even and even brighter illumination, will make installation far easier, and will make mass production possible. The new design will also make installation much easier. 3D printing of the first prototype may begin as soon as the end of this week. The first will be for the testers and based on their experiences appropriate enhancements will be made. I'll be working with the testers on this over the next month or so and I hope that we can scale this up in October.�
Aug 20, 2013
ccbldg artsci, thank you for your time & effort on this & your other MS projects!�
Aug 20, 2013
Panacea +1 :biggrin:
Yes, many thanks for your efforts!�
Sep 14, 2013
artsci 3D printing of the Ts won't be completed until next week and as I'll be in China from then until early October we won't have anything to show until then. But I will say that I've found a way to control lighting of the T from the touchscreen. At the very least we'll be able to turn it on and off and likely control the brightness and mode from the touchscreen.�
Oct 30, 2013
RandyY Any update on this sir?�
Nov 1, 2013
artsci I picked up two of the Ts today -- regretably the rest for the 6 testers won't be finished until Wednesday. So I'm going to complete one this weekend and post photos of the results. This way I can get all of the installation steps finalized. The biggest challenge is folding the LED strip into the hollowed out part of the T without damaging the circuit.�
Nov 1, 2013
bhuwan Hope this comes our well. Would lone to do this!�
Nov 1, 2013
nkohlimd Rick
Good luck with the install. Look forward to seeing pics. Would be great if I could get my T by next weekend as I am scheduled for front and rear parking install on the 11th and it may be best to do it at the same time since the full front of the car will be removed. no pressure
PS-wish your front camera mod was ready...timing is everything! Have a great weeeknd�
Nov 1, 2013
artsci You'll have it by next weekend if I have to FedEx it to you.
As for the front camera, now just waiting on the corrected cables to arrive. Everything else is ready.�
Nov 3, 2013
artsci I've finished assembling and testing the new lighted T, which is made with a 3D printed shell and very narrow LED strips from Oznium.com. I'm very pleased with the results -- it's a big improvement over the previous version with a PCB board and the need to cut out part of the nose cone frame. All of that is not necessary with the new version. Two 5/64's holes in the nose cone is the only need for alterations to the car. The light is much more even and brighter. I'll post some photos this evening.
The 6 beta testers will be shipped kits on Wednesday or Thursday. They'll be assembling them and installing them on their own cars and offering suggestions so we can make a kit for everyone interested in this mod.
Now I'm on to lighting the T on the rear lift gate. Already have one on order from Tesla and now that I know the tricks, this should be piece of cake. This will require two 5/64s hole in the lift gate sheet metal to connect the wiring to power. There's no way to avoid that.�
Nov 3, 2013
rekoh i assume the rear would be lit red ..... sounds awesome count me in on both. i would like the to be wired to the parking or daytime lights. it would be cool if the rear got brighter when braking! THANK YOU FOR WORKING ON ALL OF THESE AWESOME MODS!!�
Nov 3, 2013
efusco This sounds like great news and great progress. Thanks for all your effort on this project. I'm really hopeful this is available widely for a reasonable price soon.�
Nov 3, 2013
Mark Petersen For the reare have you considered trying one of thes wireless charging for mobile phones
They may work throug the body panel
And you would avoid cutting holes�
Nov 3, 2013
artsci Here are some photos of the new lighted T installed on my car. The photos do not do it justice: the camera captures much more of the reflection on the V below the T than the eye actually notices.
This photo shows a small LED mounted on the dash that indicates that the lighted T is on.
We should have a kit available in about one month, when the 6 testers have finished installation and testing. Don't know price yet as the makers of the 3d T and arch have not yet billed me or even given me any indication of cost.�
Nov 3, 2013
pgiralt Great news that you have discovered a solution that doesn't require cutting the nose cone frame! I had backed out as a beta tester because I didn't want to cause permanent damage to the car. This is looking very promising.�
Nov 3, 2013
artsci Right, just two 5/64s holes in the nose cone. That's it.�
Nov 3, 2013
Odenator My wife just saw these pictures and she indicated that if we do not end up on some list to buy these, then my expected life span will be much reduced.�
Nov 3, 2013
dsmith2189 Or change from white to red when braking.�
Nov 3, 2013
artsci Possible but difficult unless we can find a similar very thin LED strip in red. A lot to fit in a very small space. But worth a try.�
Nov 3, 2013
rekoh I would be concerned about laws that might restrict white lights on the rear of a vehicle (other than illuminating the license plate). I think red on the rear would look sweet.. brighter when braking. white for the front. connect the front to daylight running light circuit, connect the rear to the license plate lighting (or to the tail/brake if going with the brighter when braking option). Just some thoughts. This is a very fun/unique mod!�
Nov 4, 2013
aaron.s Rick
AMAZING results! The light is so much more even then before and looks so good.....!
Excited you are now tackling the rear "T" logo.... But I have a challenge for you
I think it would be SO COOL to have the embossed Tesla lettering on the rear chrome strip to light up at night so you can read "Tesla" in the dark. Of course, that would require cutting out the raised part of the lettering and putting some sort of thin flat lighting material (thin flat OLED white light or Electroluminescent Tape) to be placed behind the chrome strip.
EL Tape:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/121177931957?lpid=82
Do you think that is at all possible? And don't worry - I *know* I'm crazy!
Aaron�
Nov 4, 2013
artsci It's very possible and I've been thinking about since you suggested this months ago. EL tape is probably it, although side lighting a thin plexi strip might also work. I'll turn to this after the rear T.�
Nov 4, 2013
zax123 I love how even the light looks coming out of the plexi. Super nice job!!
Can't wait to play with this and looking forward to a rear kit as well. I hope there's a switched +12V source in the trunk lid.�
Nov 4, 2013
artsci This version is not Plexi -- the T's are 3D printed with whatever material is used for that. Plastics to be sure but not Plexi. That helps with the light diffusion.�
Nov 4, 2013
alexhamilton71 Very awesome! I don't even have my car yet and I can't wait to make this mod
P85+ Metallic Grey/Black Perf Seats/Carbon Fiber�
Nov 4, 2013
carrerascott What will be involved in installing this? If pretty simple, I'm interested.�
Nov 4, 2013
Frankrb What does it look like in day light? Will it be on all the time or only at night?�
Nov 4, 2013
artsci Until the 6 beta testers finish their assembly and testing I'm not sure. For now the Oznium diamond LED strips have to be threaded into the 3d T and arch, mounted on the nose cone, and wired to a 12v power source controlled with a remote that syncs with Homelink. So it's a project for an advanced DYI type. But we may find a way to supply the T and arch already set up for mounting so any beginning DYI type or car mod shop can do it.
- - - Updated - - -
In my current set up light is not bright enough in daylight to be clearly seen. If it was it would be blinding at night and you'd never see the T -- it would just be a ball of light. It's really designed for night time use or overcast days. But further experimentation may change that. At full brightness, the Oznium strips are very bright but also heat up to nearly 200 degrees. In an enclosed space like the 3D T, that's not good for the longevity of the LEDs. We're using a resistor to lower the heat to appropriate levels, but that also lowers the brightness. So compromises have to be made.�
Nov 4, 2013
efusco I think he's (like me) wondering what the new T looks like in daylight (unlit)...Does it look pretty normal or is it an obviously modded T?�
Nov 4, 2013
artsci Looks pretty much the same as the plain version. On close inspection the well-informed would see a difference but not John Q. Public. It's raised 9/32s" and the lighted area under the chrome T and arch are a kind of milky white. I'll take some photos tomorrow.�
Nov 5, 2013
youlikeadajuice Cool project Artsci! I know it's late in the game for this, but had you considered using Electroluminescent wire to provide the light? I've used this on a few projects, it runs very cool but not sure if it would provide the brightness you're looking for.
CooLight Electroluminescent Wire�
Nov 5, 2013
zax123 Oops, I knew that. I guess I didn't have a good name for it since it's the raw material for the 3D printer.
- - - Updated - - -
Hi Aaron,
I just ordered that chrome strip from my local service center. I'll order a short length of EL tape (hopefully it's available in lengths less than a foot (which is all we need). Then I'll dremel out the letters and see if there's a neat way of passing a wire there (the back of the strip will tell me where the clips/holes are, etc).
I'll keep you all posted on progress. Maybe I should start a new thread once I get things going.
Edit: Does anyone know if EL tape can be cut basically anywhere along its length? It looks like the conductors run along its length which leads me to believe that it *is* possible...�
Nov 5, 2013
artsci Here are some photos of the T in daylight, unlighted.
�
Nov 5, 2013
AnOutsider ditto here. excited to see what comes!�
Nov 5, 2013
artsci Tried that out at the very beginning of this experiment. Decided not to go with it for several good reasons:
Light is not bright enough
Has a bluish cast even in the "white" EL
Degrades over time�
Nov 5, 2013
aaron.s Zax
Keep us posted!
The only problem I foresee is the plastic behind the chrome piece is attached to. It seems solid and not hollow and the end of the EL tape has that bulkier connector that needs to be tucked somewhere... Also make sure you get an EL strip that is taller than the lettering! The link I gave - the white glowing part is only .31" tall... the lettering is 11/16" (almost 3/4") tall.
I'm so excited though - REALLY looking forward to this mod too!
Aaron�
Nov 5, 2013
umuhk EL material is basically a capacitor, so it's constructed as a "sandwich" of layers: the power conductors are the top and bottom layers (well, inside the protective layers), so it can usually be cut into arbitrary shapes. BUT...
- charges can accumulate at corners, so complex shapes won't be evenly bright
- the conductive layers have some resistance, so brightness can vary over large areas and long lengths (this is likely why there are wire conductors down the length of the tape)
- the material between the conductors is very sensitive to moisture, and will quickly degrade in the presence of water vapour; if you do cut it, be sure to seal the edge carefully to keep it waterproof
- changing the area of EL material will change its electrical characteristics; make sure the driver circuit can adjust appropriately
�
Nov 5, 2013
artsci This why I think we need to use thin plexi side-lit with LEDs. None of those problems.�
Nov 5, 2013
Klaus Can't wait ... Must have ...�
Nov 6, 2013
artsci 6 3D Ts and arches shipped to the 6 beta testers today. We should being seeing installation results early next week. In the meantime mine is running fine.
If all goes well I'm guessing the kits will be available in less than 30 days. After the testers have completed their installations and I have their feedback, I'll post detailed installation instructions so that everyone can make a judgment about whether he or she wants to do this as a DIY project or use an installer.�
Nov 6, 2013
RandyY I'm super jealous! We don't need to get on 'the list' with you at this point if we want to get in on this right?�
Nov 6, 2013
artsci No need to get on a list. The 3d Ts and arches can be made pretty quickly. When we'er ready I'll post all the parts needed. The Oznium diamond LED strips are the key part.�
Nov 6, 2013
rekoh Any idea on cost?�
Nov 6, 2013
nkohlimd Looking forward to receiving the beta kit-to the other beta testers, please let me know if you have figured out a way to wire it to the headlights. Would ideally like it on at all ties with the headight but wire a switch to turn off if needed. Would rather not have it on during the daylight or have to keep turning it on or off. Another option would be to wire it in with a photosensor so it automatically goes on at a preadjusted darkness level. That may be the easiest option. Will do some research......please share your suggestions/ideas as well......appreciate the expertise and experience this forum has to offer.....thanks
- - - Updated - - -
Something like this - small sensor giving multiple install options
http://www.amazon.com/Amico-Photoelectric-Switch-Sensor-50mmx25mm/dp/B00BLZ93T2�
Nov 6, 2013
artsci Not yet but it will be reasonable. I want to see if I can cut a deal with Oznium for bulk purchase of the diamond LED strips.�
Nov 7, 2013
NJ Rob Any chance of getting a copy of the 3D printer file? I have the MakerBot Replicator 2X and would love to try printing a few out in different colors.�
Nov 7, 2013
npiwovar It's Alive!!! I had Rick's Lighted T installed on my S today.The T is not very noticeable until the lights are turned on.The light behind the T is bright enough even with the resistor hooked up.The Oracle programmer works well also (I was worried about that before the installation).I'm still learning the program sequence with the remote.I don't have homelink and have been using the remote control of the programmer.My personal favorite is the breathing mode.
My installer asked me if I wanted the T to go on when the headlights go on and i said yes...so that's the way it is hooked up.
My nosecone has been covered in carbon fiber vinyl...T also..no chrome shows on my car...and my installer left my T that way and the light just comes out of the sides.No glare from the light at all...No, I haven't taken any pictures yet but I will post some photos in the next day or so.�
Nov 8, 2013
artsci Very good news for those who want to install a kit once they are available. i've been talking to Oznium and they've agreed to develop a custom diamond LED form factor in a thin, flat PCB for this application. It will fit perfectly in the T and arch channels and use side emitting diamond LEDS. It will also be waterproofed. There will be no bending and cutting of LED strips. Oznium will be make them exclusively for this purpose and they will not be available online or on a retail basis. A number of LED color options will be available: white, blue, green, and amber.
This will make installation of a kit much, much easier as the Oznium LED PCB will be installed in the T and arch ready for mounting on the nose cone. I FedExed today a T and arch off to their factory in Hong Kong for the development work to begin.�
Nov 8, 2013
ggbjr Amazing news! Thanks for your efforts.�
Nov 8, 2013
efusco Outstanding!�
Nov 8, 2013
rekoh Very cool -- would b appropriate for them to do red for the rear to comply with local laws if people want to mod the rear T too
Awesome news though!!�
Nov 8, 2013
artsci The rear T will be next after we produce the front T kit. Now that I have a relationship with Oznium the suggestion that the rear T switches from white to red when the brakes are applied is a reality -- working with Oznium we can get it done.�
Nov 8, 2013
tomanik Nice work artsci, look forward to getting a kit one day!�
Nov 10, 2013
aaron.s WOW!
Aaron�
Nov 10, 2013
Discoducky Maybe retrofits will be available at TESLIVE? My car will be there!�
Nov 10, 2013
artsci That's a very reasonable goal and probably what I want to do. I'll be there for sure, as I was last year with my demo of the T. I suppose I could set up a stall of some kind and do installations on the spot. I've done it so many times it's become second nature.
In about 2 weeks or so I will post kit options and prices, then make them available on the Tesla Parts for Sale section of this site. We'll probably take pre-production orders for the kits at that time.
BTW, I've totally given up on the Oracle remotes. I had a third one fail last night, this time the 4 channel. It just stopped switching on the T. That's three failures out of 4 Oracle remotes purchased. I've concluded that they're making junk (made in China, of course) and have no quality control. If a company is having stuff made in China without adequate quality control, junk is what they'll get. Oznium, on the other hand, makes a very reliable remote with all of the special effects. That's what I'll be including in the kits.�
Nov 10, 2013
Discoducky Cool, very interested in this as well as the other items you've got up your sleeve�
Nov 10, 2013
Klaus Amazing progress!
Thanks, Rick!�
Nov 10, 2013
artsci We've been through all of that to get where we are. Walked away from Plexi an iteration ago. The ozniums fire on three sides so they are ideal.�
Nov 10, 2013
NJ Plugin Sounds great.
Where any pictures posted? Or did I miss them.�
Nov 11, 2013
artsci Here are a few photos of the install and results.
�
Nov 11, 2013
ggbjr My goodness, that looks great. Can't wait for a kit!�
Nov 11, 2013
elecblue The lighted nosecone T is the bomb!
Please let me know how to get on a waiting list for the kit.
Thanks for developing this!�
Nov 11, 2013
artsci There won't be a waiting list as we'll be able to produce these in volume once we're ready. Timing depends almost wholly on development of the Oznium LED pcb that will light the Ts.
Here's my current thinking about kits. Two probably will be offered.
One will have everything needed to do the install: 3D T and arch, sealed with the Oznium Diamond waterproof LED PCB installed and tested, Oracle multifunction controller, wires, tap-a-fuse, crimp connectors, resistor, and detailed installation instructions. This is likely to cost about $275.00. Installation can be done easily by a reasonably skilled DYIer or by a professional installer.
The second will include only the 3D T and arch sealed with the Oznium Diamond waterproof LED PCB installed and tested. Everything else will have to be purchased separately at each buyer�s option. That kit is likely to cost about $175.00.
A warrantee for at least two years on the functioning of the T and arch will also be provided.
I�ll post when these are available, in about a 6-8 weeks I�m guessing. They�ll be offered, appropriately, in the Tesla Parts for Sale on this site. Purchases will be made through PayPal.
Tomorrow I'll receive from Tesla the rear T and arch. So work will begin presently on lighting that as well. Development of that kit, based on what I've learned with the nosecone T, will go much faster. The plan, as with the front T, is to use a 3D printed T and arch and to have Oznium produce a PCB LED array for that as well�
Nov 11, 2013
NJ Plugin Artsci, thanks for the pictures, it looks fantastic. Can't wait to order my kit.�
Nov 12, 2013
SUPRKAR I completed my install last evening. It looks wonderful. It was a little time consuming, wanted to make sure I did not break anything. If I had to do another it would be a lot quicker. The kit that artsci is making should be a snap to install by anyone with basic mechanic skills. I just connected to my parking light wire so the T will be on with parking lights and headlights. I left extra wire so I could change the connection should I wish to do so in the future and add the remote control feature.
THANKS artsci for taking this on and coming up with such a professional result this looks factory.�
Nov 12, 2013
efusco Did you happen to take photos of exactly which wire you spliced into? Will be helpful for those of us hoping to DIY this mod in a few weeks.�
Nov 12, 2013
yobigd20 ohhh boy you can bet I'm going to get this when they're available. sign me up!�
Nov 12, 2013
nkohlimd Still waiting
Sadly, I have the light already to go but the car has been in the shop since last Thursday. Battery fault error and they can't still figure out what's going on. As soon as I get it back, will do the install. Most likely this weekend. I also want to tie the lighted nosecone into the headlights. Any specific details will be most appreciated.�
Nov 13, 2013
artsci The lift gate T and arch went to PCS Engineering today for scanning and 3D printing of the underlying pieces that will hold the LEDs. Then the 3D pieces will go to Oznium's Hong Kong factory for fabrication of a custom diamond LED PCB. It will be set up just like the front T but we're planning to rig it so the it lights in red and turns even brighter red when the brakes are applied. At least that's my plan. Any other opinions about colors, etc?�
Nov 13, 2013
yobigd20 I want a red LED through that center of the T to scan back and forth horizontally.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mo8Qls0HnWo�
Nov 13, 2013
artsci
You're kidding right? If not red lights on the front of the car are verboten. In any case, even on the rear the T's are so small that a scanning strip would hardly be noticed.�
Nov 13, 2013
ModelS1079 Aer sci, this is he stuff that makes this forum so much fun to read. Following since you were using plexiglas.
Can't wait. Looks awesome.�
Nov 16, 2013
aaron.s All -
Saw artsci today and he installed my lighted "T" - looks amazing!
Aaron�
Nov 16, 2013
zax123 SUPRKAR,
I'm a tester too, I was wondering how you found your parking/headlight wire. I'm thinking of doing the same, but not 100% sure. I'm planning on doing it this week (I just got the kit yesterday cuz I'm in Canada).
Thanks!
- - - Updated - - -
Looks great Aaron!
I'm curious, as the "true" Tesla road tripper, how much mileage do you have on your beast by now?�
Nov 16, 2013
SamGarber Great to meet you today Aaron! Looks awesome - was hard to see it in action during the day.�
Nov 16, 2013
aaron.s Zax123
After today's 200 mile r/t jaunt to the Philly area, that would be about 20,600 miles!
Aaron
- - - Updated - - -
Sam
Thanks for hosting us and thanks for the charge! So happy you had an HPWC and so happy I had the second charger installed on Monday!
Aaron�
Nov 17, 2013
SUPRKAR The parking light wire is located on either side of the car. I removed the plastic cover along the drivers side, you can see the headlight assembly and the plug. The parking light wire is the first wire on the bottom row of the connector as you are looking down at the connector facing the car. The color wire is red with white stripe. Hope this helps. If you get stuck PM me and I will send you a picture�
Nov 17, 2013
AmpedUpInPDX Now the cat eyes have a nose! Meow.
Looks super cool. Way to go!�
Nov 17, 2013
jerry33 Next project: Whiskers to feel for road debris.
Seriously, that is really cool!�
Nov 17, 2013
islandbayy Put me on the waiting list. MUST HAVE @_@�
Nov 17, 2013
efusco Thanks�
Nov 18, 2013
Caloncho Good project!
I want one too when is ready !!�
Nov 19, 2013
artsci See post #259 on this thread.�
Nov 19, 2013
efusco Post #259 Link�
Nov 21, 2013
artsci Here's an update on where things stand. Oznium's techs in Hong Kong received the T and arch earlier this week and are working on designs for the PCB, experimenting with different size LEDs for the space they have to work with. They've asked us to open up space in the arch and T so they can use the largest LEDs possible, so PCS Engineering is making the walls of the arch and T thinner (.6mm) and making samples for me to overnight to Hong Kong. The Oznium techs, owing to the concave shape of the T also have decided to use a flexible PCB material.
PCS Engineering has the rear T and will have a 3D print of the base for that ready at the same time as the front T and arch with thinner walls. That will also go overnight to Hong Kong for design of the PCB for the rear T. So we're making good progress toward moving both front and rest Ts into production for kits.
So I think I'm 3-4 weeks away from having the PCBs for both front and rear Ts as well as the 3D prints for the kits in my hands.�
Nov 21, 2013
ccbldg Looking forward to installing one of your kits, thanks again!�
Nov 23, 2013
GaryREM Awesome work! Can't wait to see the results.�
Nov 23, 2013
artsci Another update. I approved the LED layouts today and manufacture of the PCBs will being immediately. 50 sets will be made to start. Once they're in my hands we'll begin making the kits available. I'm now guessing 4 weeks or sooner. Before Christmas is my goal -- a nice Christmas gift you can ask your significant other to give you.�
Nov 24, 2013
brianman @artsci
I suspect I'm not the only one that has lost track somewhat. Do you have a wiki or are you updating the first post or something with pricing, options, and general description of how these work (like is it car power or CR2032 batteries, etc.)? Thanks.�
Nov 24, 2013
artsci Yes, keeping track of all of this is difficult as I've just been adding posts as things evolve. As there's some uncertainty about price and what will actually be included in the kit I can't be definitive about that for a few weeks. I can say that it works off car power and there are several options about how it can be turned on or off (by a remote, headlights, etc). I'm probably going to create soon a web page where all of the information will reside and orders can be placed.�
Nov 24, 2013
brianman @artsci
And just to be clear: I'm very appreciative of the stream-of-progress (somewhat like stream-of-consciousness) updates. It's very interesting, but just more than I can keep up with.
Also, you said you don't have pricing yet but are you close to a ballpark yet? Like perhaps the number of digits in the US$ pricing? Thanks.�
Nov 24, 2013
artsci Probably somewhere in the range of $180 to $190 it appears now for the basic kit.�
Nov 24, 2013
brianman Okay, you'll definitely want a pre-order list then. I'll take a spot.�
Nov 25, 2013
xhawk101 Put me down�
Nov 25, 2013
ccbldg Add my name to the preorder list too!�
Nov 26, 2013
artsci Ok. I've added a wiki with basic information about the T and a pre-order waiting list. Here's a link. The waiting list includes the 6 beta testers.�
Nov 26, 2013
walla2 artsci: strong work. Thanks for the R&D of this awesome product.�
Nov 26, 2013
islandbayy Add me to the list.�
Nov 26, 2013
artsci Please add your name to the Wiki list.�
Nov 26, 2013
artsci I've added your name.�
Nov 27, 2013
The Fury I am one of the beta testers and I have to applaud Artsci for his planning and execution of the nose cone product. After getting the kit and ordering my support products (got almost all of them through Amazon straight to the house), I was able to casually sit down and work on the items while watching the NFL game on Sunday night. Artsci laid out the steps for assembly in such a logical and concise manner that it was actually fun!!
I will post a few photos soon, but to sum it all up, the construction of the lighted T with the lights using the kit was a breeze.. I would suggest taking your time and doing every step listed as it will make sense at the end of the "T" assembly (especially the sanding part say the glue will bump up around the outer edges and needs the be sanded down smooth).
I am now to the part of wiring to the car, but am awaiting an additional part from Amazon before that step. I hope to have mine complete by early next week. (I have a second nose cone so I plan on taking my time and swapping nose cones when this project is all done. I am looking to make this my "gadget" Nosecone, and add more to it if I can future more out for it.. Artsci?
Thanks again Artsci for your work in designing this great mod!!�
Nov 27, 2013
artsci Thanks Tim. I don't want to take the fun out of this�
Nov 27, 2013
zax123 Hi all!
I am one of the beta testers and it's time for me to report in.
I finally got my T installed this weekend. I'll make some general comments that will and won't apply to "normal" installers.
I've done a lot of ripping cars apart before, and frankly, taking apart the "frunk" compartment of the S is very simple. Everything that snaps off or unscrews almost by hand. The only thing I needed a tool for was to remove the front box of the frunk and most of you won't need to do that unless you want to run wiring into the passenger compartment (more on that later).
I followed @artsci's steps one by one, and the instructions were very well written and clear (thanks Rick). To pop the nosecone off, I youtube'd "tesla nosecone" and did the push down hard with both hands routine. It didn't work first or second time, but eventually it just pops off. Then I unsnapped (two rubber-headed bolts to unscrew) the trim pieces under the hood to be able to run some wiring here and there. Since I was also planning to run a wire into the passenger compartment (I wanted an LED to show the "status" of the lighted T), I also removed all the carpet trim from the frunk and the black box that makes up the front of the frunk. Here's a pic to show what I'm talking about:
I drilled a hole where the red arrow is shown. This is the only time I screwed up a bit. The firewall (at that point) is two sheets of metal and I drilled through both but then continued drilling too far and I puncture the top of a black box on the other side of the firewall. I'm not sure what it is, but the car still works so I'm hoping it was hollow where I punctured it and it doesn't need to be pressurized -- oops!
Most of the rest was straight-forward. I ran wire around the frunk shell to the fusebox and another to go into the hole I made in the firewall.
Everything went very well. The instructions didn't mention how to attach the T to the nosecone, so I used the equivalent of what I found as Goop. Adhesive sealant. I think held it in place with electrical tape while I finished the rest of the install (basically wiring).
I will have a status LED that will mimick what the T will be doing. I just forgot to but a decent LED at the electrical supply store, so I gotta make another trip and do that.
I will post pics soon, the weather here has been rather icky.�
Nov 27, 2013
nkohlimd Thought I would chime is as well as a Beta Tester-did the install last week-whole thing took about 2 hours excluding drying time. Rick's instructions are comprehensive and superb. The sizing and fit if the kit is a+. A few tips based on my install...use the youtube video to pop off the nose cone, easy and less risk of damaging the clips. Take your time with using dental floss to remove the "T". I used clear silicone adhesive everywhere as it is readily available (had a tube at home) and easy to remove if needed. The install is strong. Sandpaper the edges until you have a very matte finish which will reduce bright spots (Rick, will the final kit have a matte finish or require sanding?) Used solicone adhesive to attach the resistor and secure the wires on the backside but did also place electrical tape for insurance. I wired it directly to the headlight so it is only when they are on. Did not want all the strobe and pulsing functions. See earlier post #273 for details. This wiring makes it super easy as you don't have to take out the frunk or drill thru the firewall but you do lose some functionality. Great mod and I smile everytime I exit the car and see the lighted T till the walkway light function turns it off...Thanks Rick!! Happy holidays to all.......�
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