As part of an unexpected twist, the project must include a “sixth sense,” demonstrating the capabilities of STMicroelectronics and TE Connectivity products to enhance vehicle detection and remote data collection. Potential application ideas for the competition can range widely from drones for detecting wildfires to self-guided devices that navigate drains or monitor underwater pipelines.

Manufacturers and engineers can register to participate in the Sixth Sense Design Challenge until October 15. The 20 competitors will be announced on October 20 and will have 11 weeks to build their projects, producing at least 10 blog posts about the process to share their development with the element14 community. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of technical judges from TE Connectivity and ST Microelectronics on originality, innovation, and technical merit.

The 20 members of the element14 community selected to compete in this design challenge will receive a free Challenger Kit from STMicroelectronics and TE Connectivity, which includes all the kit development boards and kit components needed to create their designs.

The first-place winner of the Sixth Sense Design Challenge will receive a Lulzbot Taz 6 3D printer valued at over $2,500. The runner-up will receive the Lulzbot Mini 2 3D printer valued at over $1,500. And every participant who completes the design challenge will receive a mystery prize.

More information or registration