MiniBee: Radar-Based Presence Sensor

MiniBee is a compact presence detector built using the Arduino MKR WiFi 1010 and the Infineon BGT60LTR11AIP radar sensor. It’s designed for real-time interaction systems — detecting motion and simulating presence through a simple logic signal. It’s ideal for installations, responsive spaces, and integration with creative tools like TouchDesigner.

---

🚀 Features

• Radar presence detection (BGT60LTR11AIP)
• Edge logic for maintaining presence state
• Serial communication of logic signal (1 = presence, 0 = no presence)
• Integration with TouchDesigner via .toe file
• Custom 3D-printed case

---

🧠 How It Works

The radar detects motion. If motion is detected, the device outputs a 1. If no motion is detected for 15 seconds, it outputs a 0. This creates a presence-like behavior based on movement.

This logic is implemented in the firmware and also interpreted in the TouchDesigner patch.

---

🛠️ Hardware

• MCU: Arduino MKR WiFi 1010
• Radar Sensor: Infineon BGT60LTR11AIP (mounted via SHIELDAUTONOMBGT60TOBO1)
• Power: USB / LiPo (optional)
• Case: Custom 3D-printed (STL provided)

Wiring

Shield Pin	Arduino Pin	Description
TD	D15	Target Detect
PD	D16	Phase Detect
VIN	VCC	Power 3.3V or 5V
GND	GND	Ground

---

📂 Repository Structure

minibee/
├── firmware/
│   └── motion_detection/
│       ├── motionDetection.ino         # Main radar firmware
│       └── README.md
├── hardware/
│   └── case_3d_print/
│       └── minibee_case_v1.stl         # 3D printable case
├── touchdesigner/
│   └── minibee_presence_reader.toe     # Reads serial and outputs logic signal
├── LICENSE
├── .gitignore
└── README.md

---

🎛️ TouchDesigner Integration

The included .toe patch reads serial input (1 or 0) and outputs a logic signal as a CHOP. It maintains a "presence" state for 15 seconds after the last motion detection.

File

• touchdesigner/minibee_presence_reader.toe

Behavior

Serial Value	CHOP Output	Description
1	1	Motion detected (presence active)
0	0	No motion (after 15s timeout)

This is ideal for driving installations, triggers, lights, or generative visuals.

---

📎 License

MIT — Feel free to use, adapt, and build upon it.

Copyright 2025