Week 4: Adventures in Making

SketchUp:

This week I explored SketchUp software to design a Maker Space. I played around with the 3D features, but I would need more time to explore and create 3-D objects in SketchUp. I logged the hours I spent exploring SketchUp at 15 hours. I decided to create a 2D space due to lack of time in getting my assignments complete. Once I learn how to use all the features SketchUp offers I believe it would be excellent software to use as a tool for creating and printing 3D objects. Here is a sketch of my exploration with SketchUp and my vision for a maker space.

Week 4: Electronic Dice Machine

On to the Maker Challenge of the week which is to create an Electronic Dice Machine. The challenge was to design, build, program, test and document an electronic dice machine. The build is using seven LEDs, and a push button with the correct coding which will "roll the dice," then roll the "electronic dice 100 times and document the results.

I wanted to work with the push button before I dove into this weeks challenge so I build Circuit #5: Push Button. Here is a video of the working circuit.

Electronic Dice Machine

This was the most challenging circuit so far. The major problem I had was getting the push button to control the LEDs. I wasn't sure if the problem was with way I had the board set up or if it was the code. I worked with each for a few days until I knew I couldn't do it myself, so I used the Arduino website, and Google. I still struggled for a few hours until I broke everything down and started over once again. There were times I thought I actually broke the Arduino. Then.... SUCCESS!! I feel that I accomplished more with this challenge because it was so difficult for me, but I didn't give up and throw in the towel.

Code used for Electronic Dice Machine

Picture of the circuit including Arduino and Breadboard 

 Electronic Diagram

Connections

Electronic Dice Machine Video

Once I completed the circuit and was watching the YouTube video, I noticed at times when the generated number displayed I would have seven LEDs light up. I went back and worked with the code once again until I found the problem. I did not have LED number four turning off when number six was rolled. I am happy that was a simple fix. Below is a video of the finished circuit.

Reflection:

Stepping out on my own this week was frighting. I am one of those people who will try to assemble something on my own before reading the instruction manual and building this circuit was no different. I spent hours trying to complete the project on my own before realizing I needed help to complete it. Although it was frustrating to do so, I was able to learn more how the code works and doesn't work due to my many failures. This week I have learned more patience in working with the Arduino and working with the code which will help me to continue exploring and enjoying the Arduino after the completion of this course.

As I was working on this circuit the extension that continued coming to mind is family game time. I feel my children would enjoy pushing the button to roll the dice instead of rolling an actual dice for a change. Another extension this type of circuit could be used for is slot machines and other gaming machines.

I have provided a graph of the distribution of rolls out of 100 rolls created with my Electronic Dice Machine.