Zero-to-Maker Project Build - Glowing Alien Artifact
Take your skills to the next level with this intensive multi-skill build session and walk away with a sweet looking laser cut prop with animated lights and sound.
Open to beginners but also great for those who have already taken Programming for Absolute Beginners.
This class will cover the entire design life cycle touching on each of the following themes:
- Computer based design tools to digitally construct our artifact
- Physical measurement and prepping of materials used in creating the artifact
- Design selection of patterns/templates you can utilize to further customize your artifact
- Using the Laser Cutter and getting hands on experience utilizing the laser cutter
- Assembly/Gluing/Sanding - basic hand assembly of the individual components to achieve the desired shape/form
- Basic electronics overview - I'll provide an overview of the Circuit Playground Micro-controller hardware and features while the glue dries on your artifact
- Test device - We'll power up the device and look for status indicators
- Test USB - verify the device connects to your computer and establish communication with the device
- Intro to Programming with CircuitPython and MakeCode (internet required) - How to use browser based and block editing/programming, no prior coding experience required
- Programming of this device can be accomplished with any computer or chromebook (Apple, PC or Linux) with USB and a web browser. No additional software is required (but some windows drivers may be required)
- Stretch goal - depending on how far the class gets, we can add software functionality to make the glowing cube be sound activated and include sound FX -- imagine an alien artifact that you can activate with a clap!
Skills gained:
- Working with Laser Cutter
- Programming on Arduino / Micro-controller
- Block programming for easier programming
- Work with Neopixel LED's
- Learn basics of working with Python
- Assembling finished project
What to bring:
- Please bring your own laptop if you have one. Otherwise, computers are available at Hacker Lab if they are needed.
- Please make sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early and sign our general release of liability agreement.
- The materials fees for this class are included in the price.
- This is a family-friendly class - perfect for a child (15yo+) and parent to attend together!
- This class does not certify members to use Hacker Lab's laser cutter for there own projects. Please take the Intro to Lasercutting class if you goal is to get certified on the lasers.
- Please click here to review Hacker Lab's current covid polices.
- Do not come into the Lab if you have a cough, fever, or feel sick in the past 14 days.
- While electronics projects aren't particularly messy, the makerspace is a shop and thus full of wonderful ways to get stains and dirt on your clothes. Please dress appropriately, wear closed-toed shoes, tie back loose or long hair, and don't wear anything you don't mind getting a bit dirty.
Important information for all classes:
- Please make sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early and sign our general release of liability agreement.
- Masks must be worn correctly while inside the facility.