Sensors

Sensors are devices that detect and measure changes in the physical world, allowing electronic systems to gather information about their surroundings. They can monitor properties such as light, temperature, motion, pressure, sound, or distance, converting these real-world conditions into electrical signals that a microcontroller or computer can interpret. By translating environmental data into usable input, sensors enable technologies ranging from phone touchscreens and fitness trackers to smart home systems and industrial automation. Whether analog or digital, sensors play a crucial role in creating responsive, interactive devices that adjust their behavior based on what they observe in real time.

Tech Kits are part of the walk-in service provided by Innovate Labs. There are three levels of difficulty meant for different users and their experience with the different technologies. Many of the Tech Kits build off each other as you progress.

Beginner

Interacting using Sensors

Length: 30 Minutes

Description: Digital signals such as switches, buzzers, and LEDs have binary outputs. Sensors like these allow electronic systems to respond to user input through simple digital signals. Using Arduino's Sensor Kit, students work with plug-and-play modules to explore how digital pins handle on-off values. After assembling the board, students will program functionality for these digital pins. Here we demonstrate how microcontrollers interpret sensor input and produce immediate physical responses, forming the foundation for building interactive, sensor-based devices.

Intermediate

Responsive Sensor Data

Length: 45 Minutes

Description: Analog sensors measure gradual environmental changes and how microcontrollers use that data to create automated responses. Arduino's Sensor Kit allows students to observe how analog readings vary and how threshold-based logic can mimic systems such as automatic night lights. Experimenting with analog pins, students can see how microprocessors process continuous data streams and control outputs in real time. Here we demonstrate how analog input, programmed logic, and digital output come together to form responsive, sensor-driven electronic systems.

Advanced

DJ Board (IN PROGRESS)

Length: 60 Minutes

Description: A gesture-based DJ board using ultrasonic sensors creates an interactive way to control music through hand movements rather than physical knobs or buttons. Ultrasonic sensors measure distance by emitting sound waves and detecting their reflections, allowing the system to track how far a user’s hands are from each sensor.