B.E.A.C.O.N

Using an Arduino, we encrypt English text with a unique Vigenère cipher, convert it into binary laser pulses, and transmit it. The receiver takes the binary, decrypts it, and reconstructs the message.

Comment

What It Does

B.E.A.C.O.N. (Binary Encoded Advanced Communication Over Networks) encrypts an English message using a Vigenère cipher, converts it into a binary string, and transmits it using laser pulses. The receiver detects the laser signals, decodes the binary, decrypts the message, and reconstructs the original text in English.

How We Built It

  • Used an Arduino to handle encryption, binary conversion, and laser transmission.
  • Designed a light sensor-based receiver to detect and decode laser pulses.
  • Implemented the Vigenère cipher for encryption and decryption.
  • Tuned the binary transmission timing to ensure accurate signal detection.

Challenges We Ran Into

  • Synchronizing laser pulses with accurate binary detection to prevent errors.
  • Adjusting the sensor’s sensitivity to correctly distinguish laser pulses from ambient light.
  • Ensuring encryption robustness while keeping the system lightweight for Arduino processing.
  • Managing signal interference and optimizing detection speed for real-time communication.

Accomplishments That We're Proud Of

  • Successfully implemented encrypted laser-based communication using an Arduino.
  • Achieved reliable message transmission and decryption over light pulses.
  • Developed a stealthy, low-detectability communication system with real-world naval applications.

What We Learned

  • How to integrate cryptography with hardware-based communication.
  • The importance of precise timing in signal transmission and reception.
  • Methods to reduce noise and interference in optical communication.
  • How historical naval signaling methods can be enhanced with modern encryption.

What's Next for B.E.A.C.O.N.

  • Increasing range and accuracy by improving laser strength and sensor precision.
  • Implementing error correction algorithms to handle signal disruptions.
  • Adapting the system for underwater laser communication for submarines.
  • Enhancing encryption with RSA or stronger encryption algorithms for future security.
  • Exploring multi-channel laser transmission to send multiple signals simultaneously.

Built With

Share this project:

Updates