Week 7- Journal

Electronics I used in the Assignment

BUILDING MY CIRCUT 

Start coding Arduino on Thinker CAD using blocks 

1. Create Variables to Store Values

• Go to Variables, click Create Variable, and name it IR.

• Create another variable and name it ultra.

2. Read Sensor Data

• Drag Set Variable from Variables, and set it to IR.

• Connect it to Read Digital Pin from Input, and select Pin 8.

• Drag another Set Variable, and set it to ultra.

• Connect it to Read Ultrasonic Distance Sensor, select Trigger Pin 9 and Echo Pin 10, and set the unit to cm.

3. Trigger Actions Based on Sensor Readings

If the IR sensor detects an object:

• Drag if-do-else from Control.

• Drag (≥) from Math, and set it to IR ≥ 1.

• Inside do, drag set pin to HIGH, and select Pin 12.

• Inside else, drag set pin to LOW to turn it off.

If the distance is greater than 30 cm:

• Drag another if-do-else block.

• Set the condition to ultra ≥ 30.

• Inside do, drag rotate servo on pin, select Pin 11, and set it to 180°.

• Inside else, set the servo back to 0°.

4. Reset the IR Variable

• Drag Set Variable, select IR, and set it to 0.

Final Result

When I faced difficulties in writing and organizing the code on ThinkerCAD, I turned to an instructor for guidance in understanding and fixing errors. At times, I had to pause and research how to structure the code more efficiently within the platform, as well as ensure the correct connections between different components in the circuit.

One of the challenges I encountered was identifying the main error in the code, as it was not always immediately clear. Additionally, organizing the code in a way that made it easy to read and modify was another hurdle. However, I learned the importance of adding comments within the code and breaking tasks into smaller parts.

For anyone working on a similar assignment, I recommend avoiding trial and error alone. Instead, start by researching the fundamental concepts of ThinkerCAD and the relevant programming principles. Consulting someone with experience can save a lot of time, especially when dealing with unclear errors. Lastly, keeping notes during the process can help prevent repeating mistakes in the future.

I can use ThinkerCAD to design initial electronic circuits for the project before implementing them practically.
Arduino programming will help me add smart features like automatic lighting, sensors, or even remote control in the product.

The coolest thing I’ve learned this week is how ThinkerCAD can be used to simulate circuits before actually building them, making prototyping much easier and error-free.

Something I’ll never forget from this week is how Arduino programming can turn simple components into interactive, smart systems. Seeing how a few lines of code can control lights, sensors, or even small robots was truly fascinating!