Sensors are in use all around us and they collect data in various different ways. They help inform processors about decisions to make. Sensors can detect distance, sound, light, temperature and much more.
Tech Kits
Tech Kits are part of the walk-in service provided by Innovate Labs. There are three levels of difficulty meant for different users and their experience with the different technologies. Many of the Tech Kits build off each other as you progress.
Beginner
Visualizing an Analog sensor with an LED strip
Length: 30 - 60 Minutes
Description: Sensors report data in different ways, in this Tech Kit, we will explore how different sensors interact to changes in the environment. The data will be visualized using an LED strip.
Intermediate
Manipulating an LED strip with live data streams
Length: 30 - 60 Minutes
Description: This tech Kit uses an LED strip and change aspects of it such as brightness, hue and saturation in according to different data streams.
Advanced
Creating a Security system with NFC tags and Distance Sensors
Length: 30 - 60 Minutes
Description: Using the Sensors in a real-world situation by creating a security system. An ultasonic sensor detects people who get close, and activates the LED strip alarm. The alarm can only be disabled if the user scans their NFC tag to the reader. If someone tries to physically mess with the system, a tilt sensor will detect movement and activate the alarm.
Resources
Arduino Uno
A single board microcontroller kit for building digital devices.
Arduino IDE
In the Arduino IDLE you can enter code and run programs.
LED Addressable Light Strips
Flexible circuit board that omits powerful LED lights through the entire strip.
Ultrasonic Sensor
This sensor is designed to measure the distance between objects. It works by sending a sound wave and measuring the time it takes for it to travel to an object and back.
Tilt Sensors
This sensor is constantly measuring its orientation. Whenever there is a change in it, it sends a “1” to the arduino, otherwise it just sends a “0”.
NFC Tag Reader
NFC is the technology that allows 2 nearby devices to communicate with each other. You have probably used this tech when you scan your student id to get into the UCONN REC or dining halls.
Breadboard
Type: Hardware
Description: Breadboards are used to connect components and wire easily with the internally connected rows and columns.
Arduino Sensor Kit
Type: Hardware
Description: Arduino sensor kits are collections of various sensors and modules designed for use with Arduino microcontrollers, enabling enthusiasts and developers to experiment with and integrate a diverse range of input and output devices for projects involving electronics and sensing.