Final Project Ideas

In thinking of a final project, I first came up with a set of design criteria my idea would need to satisfy:

• Integrate different fabrication techniques (course requirements)
• Foldable and portable (I will be moving upon graduation in June)
• Include an artistic component

Foldable lamp

I have always enjoyed working with light, making lanterns and playing with LEDs. I came across this Infinity Lamp design by Robert Lang a while ago and was fascinated by it.

For my project, I would consider also making a foldable structure, with a light-up component. His design only enables one folded state, and a button in the back controls the brightness of the lamp. Perhaps I could design something that lights according to the way the structure is folded (assuming multiple folded states are possible). The lamp could also be touch-sensitive, and light up in different ways depending on where it is touched.

This project would involve integrating the mechanical aspect of creating a foldable structure with the electronic side of controlling the light features.

Update: Input Devices

In week 8, I created a capacitive touch sensor see here. This can be used to adjust the brightness or color of the lamp.

Update: Output Devices

In week 9, I used my capacitive touch sensor to control an RGB LED see here. This is a first step to integrating more features into my lamp.

Update: Networking and Communications

In week 10, I learned to use an ESP32 board see here, which I also aim to use in my final project to control the color of my lamp.

Update: Wildcard Week

In week 13, I creased and cut the foldable lamp using the Zund machine see here.

Update: Final Project

In week 14, I made the entirety of my final project. Read more about it here!

Update: Inventory

• Delrin sheets (acquired for free)
• Paper ($10)
• ESP32 chip (free)
• HR-SR04 sensor (free)
• RGB LED strips (acquired for free)
• Various other circuit components (free)

Disregard: Foldable tent

In a similar vein to the lamp, depending on the amount of materials available, I would consider building a bigger structure, such as a tent.

Comments

As a theoretical physicist, I have not thought too much about the practical uses of my work other than enjoying its beauty… so I am very open to any suggestions you may have!