Section Title:  Electronics

Purpose: Programming electronic components allows you to embed behavior into projects, allowing them to interpret and respond to the world around them. The introductory lessons included in this section begin with basics of programming logic and move into connecting sensors and actuators to the Arduino microcontroller. These tutorials provide the tools necessary to develop projects into interactive experiences. 

Prerequisite Exercise:  3D Modeling

Suggested tutorials/lectures to complete prior to exercise: 

• What is Solid Modeling?
• Getting Started in Fusion 360
• Fusion Challenge
• In Class Lesson - Modeling parts for the Giraffe
  • Part 1 - Modeling Servo Horn Component
  • Part 2 - Modeling Linkage Components
  • Part 3 - Fusion Linkage Assembly

A simple machine is a mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force.

*Animated GIFs courtesy of https://dribbble.com/mrlanning

Sketch Model 1: Canopy Cover 

"The canopy cover is an artificial tree that aims to create shade during the summer sun and dismantle the shade during the winter, where the sun is more coveted. During the summer while the shade is up, it also collects rain water to store in hydrogels."

Repeat for Sketch Models 2 and 3

Prompt

Now that you've completed your site brainstorming, field analysis, and initial sketches, you will dive into prototyping. In this session, you will continue to sketch and create quick "sketch models". A sketch model is a rough prototype made with readily available materials (paper, cardboard, tape, glue, etc.) that demonstrates the simplest version of your idea in physical form.

Instructions

Part I: Sketching

Start by sketching 3 distinct versions of your team's project idea. Typically, these are quick drawings that show the general form of the object and how people might engage with it. Sketching is a helpful tool for communicating your ideas to your teammate and teacher. Before you start sketching, watch the sketching video in the "Sketching and Drawing" resource folder. 

Part II: Prototyping - Sketch Models

You will make 3 quick sketch models that represent distinct approaches to your idea. We encourage you to be creative here. Try out a variety of prototyping approaches and explore a variety of materials! 

Before you being prototyping, please reference the "Fabrication and Quick Prototyping" resource folder for additional techniques and ideas. 

Deliverable

Create a post in your "Project" folder that contains the following for each of the 3 sketch models:

1. 3 different sketches that represent different approaches to your project idea 
2. At least three photographs of each sketch model. Photography is an important part of representing design concepts, and each photograph should tell a story about your idea, and how someone would engage with it. 
3. A 2-3 sentence description of the sketch model that addresses the following questions:
   1. What did you learn by making this prototype? 
   2. What specific experience are you hoping to create for viewers of your project?