machEgrrcon2023

README for rainbowRave.py

Overview

rainbowRave.py is a Python script that communicates with the CAN bus of a Ford Mach-E to change the colors of its interior lighting. It is designed to send a sequence of CAN messages that alter the light colors, creating a "rave" or cycling effect. The script utilizes the python-can library for CAN bus interaction.

Requirements

• Python 3.x
• python-can library
• SocketCAN interface on a Linux system (e.g., Raspberry Pi, PC with CAN interface)
• A CAN transceiver connected to the vehicle's CAN bus

Installation

1. Ensure Python is installed:

   sudo apt-get install python3

2. Install the python-can library:

   pip install python-can

3. Set up the CAN interface (e.g., SocketCAN):

   sudo ip link set can0 up type can bitrate 500000
   sudo ifconfig can0 up

Script Structure

• Imports: The script imports the required modules: time, can, and sets up the Bus interface.
• send_message() function: Sends a single CAN message with a specified arbitration ID and data payload.
• send_one() function: Sends a series of predefined CAN messages that change the interior color.
• spam() function: Continuously sends CAN messages in a loop with a brief delay to create a continuous lighting effect.

How to Use

1. Ensure that your CAN transceiver is properly connected to the vehicle and configured on can0.

2. Run the script:

   python rainbowRave.py

3. The script will execute the spam() function by default, continuously sending color-change messages to the CAN bus to cycle through colors.

Functions Explained

send_message(arbitration_id, data)

• Purpose: Sends a CAN message to the bus.
• Parameters:
  • arbitration_id: The CAN ID for the message.
  • data: An array of bytes representing the payload.
• Returns: None. Prints a confirmation if successful or an error message if not.

send_one()

• Purpose: Sends a predefined set of messages with different data payloads that correspond to color changes.
• Message Details:
  • Arbitration ID: 0x3DA
  • Data payloads: Different sets that adjust the color values.
• Returns: None. Calls send_message() iteratively for each data payload.

spam()

• Purpose: Continuously calls send_one() to create a cycling color effect.
• Behavior: Runs indefinitely with a slight delay (time.sleep(0.001)) between iterations to avoid overwhelming the CAN bus.

Important Notes

• Safety First: This script interacts with the vehicle's CAN bus. Improper use can lead to unexpected behavior. Ensure you are familiar with CAN bus communication and its implications.
• Test Environment: Always test on a simulated environment or bench setup before running on a live vehicle.
• CAN Bus Integrity: Avoid spamming messages too rapidly as it may interfere with other vehicle systems.

Customization

To customize the color sequences or behavior:

• Modify the messages array in send_one() with different data payloads to experiment with different color outputs.
• Adjust the delay in the spam() function to modify the speed of the color cycling.

License

This script is provided as-is for educational and experimental purposes. Use at your own risk. Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations regarding vehicle modifications.

Disclaimer

Manipulating the CAN bus of a vehicle should be performed with caution. The author is not responsible for any damages, legal implications, or issues resulting from the use of this script.