Module 2 Activity Research

Weekly Activity Template

Yiyi yan

Project 2

Module 2

In Project 2, I explored the form and internal structure of an emotion-sensing lamp. I sketched and tested different shapes—such as cylinders, hexagons, and rectangular prisms—to see which one could best hold the breadboard, Arduino, and sensors. Through hands-on prototyping, I discovered how sensor limits (like needing open space or thin material) affected the lamp’s openings, layers, and wiring layout. After several trials, the rectangular frame became the most stable option and allowed clearer placement for the ultrasonic, sound, and heart-rate sensors. This project helped me understand how structure, material, and electronics must work together, and it set the foundation for building a more refined prototype in Project 3.

Workshop 1 Geurilla Prototyping I

Cutting basic cardboard pieces to form the initial phone stand structure. Testing the first angled stand shape and checking if it holds the phone steadily. Trying the horizontal phone position to see how well the stand supports wider viewing. Refining the vertical stand and adding a stronger back angle for better balance. Final reinforced version combining front support and side stability for secure upright holding.

Workshop 2 Geurilla Prototyping II

Early sketch exploring a rectangular lamp frame to create clear layers for electronics placement. Sensor placement plan showing where the ultrasonic, sound, and heart-rate sensors would sit inside the frame. The first assembled wooden frame, testing structural stability and spacing for the electronics. Placing the Arduino, breadboard, and sensors inside the frame to check wire paths and component angles. Adding patterned paper to test how the outer lampshade looks and how it interacts with the light.

Activity 1: My Resarch

Ultrasonic sensor, heartbeat sensor, and sound sensor selected for emotional-state detection. Initial wiring plan showing how all three sensors connect to the Arduino and breadboard. A clearer diagram testing the wiring order for the ultrasonic and pulse sensor with an LED response. Hands-on wiring test on the breadboard to check stability and sensor responsiveness on hardware. Standalone sound-sensor connection diagram used to test how the lamp responds to sound input.

Activity 2: My Reearch

First trial of the ultrasonic sensor code; the readings were unstable and the output didn’t respond correctly. Second attempt with a different pin setup, but the distance values were still inaccurate. Tried to combine sensors manually, but the logic conflicted and caused repeated errors. Used an AI tool to reorganize and rewrite the sensor logic, and finally got a stable, working version. Final code that merges ultrasonic, sound, and heart-rate sensors, with timing and wiring issues fixed.

Additional Research or Workshops

Online circuit testing is easy to use. Try different lantern shapes. We looked for many sources of inspiration, and we finally chose the lanterns from traditional Chinese culture as our inspiration. Studying the effects of lighting and color on overall atmosphere. Different materials: bamboo, wood, plastic

Project 2

Project 2 Prototype

The final lantern design features a white light sensor that responds to ultrasound, a red light sensor that detects heartbeats, and a blue light sensor that responds to sound. It was successfully powered on.

White liaht-responsive ultrasonic sensor Red liaht-responsive heart-rate sensor Blub liaht-responsive sound sensor
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