Recently, while walking through the forest, even before enjoying a sandwich break on the park bench, an idea for a new maker project struck me. My two children should be able to visualize their current mood using a “Mood Barometer.” A pointer, driven by a servo motor, would show the current mood on a scale with three levels. The pointer could be moved along the scale using two buttons. To enhance the visual appeal, three additional LEDs would mark the pointer’s position.
Driven by a sudden burst of creativity, I hurried home to start working on the electronic implementation of the project. Using ChatGPT as a crafting partner seemed like a great idea. ChatGPT can help brainstorm ideas, solve technical challenges, and even provide coding assistance. It’s like having a virtual assistant who is always ready to help with your DIY projects.
To begin, I needed to gather all necessary components: a servo motor, buttons, LEDs, and a microcontroller to control everything. ChatGPT helped me decide on the best components based on my requirements and budget. It suggested using an Arduino board for easy control and programming, which was perfect for this project.
Next, I needed to figure out how to program the microcontroller to control the servo motor and LEDs. ChatGPT provided me with sample code snippets and explained how to modify them to fit my needs. It was like having a coding mentor guiding me through the process.
Communication with ChatGPT was straightforward. I asked questions and received detailed explanations and suggestions. For example, when I was unsure how to wire the circuit, ChatGPT provided a simple diagram and explained each connection step by step. This made the assembly process much easier and more enjoyable.
Once the hardware was set up, it was time to test the functionality. I used the code provided by ChatGPT to upload to the Arduino board. The servo motor moved the pointer smoothly along the scale, and the LEDs lit up according to the pointer’s position. It was satisfying to see the project come to life with the help of ChatGPT.
For those looking to take their DIY projects to the next level, ChatGPT can be an invaluable resource. It offers insights, solutions, and even inspiration for new ideas. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, having ChatGPT as a part of your creative process can enhance your projects.
The experience of using ChatGPT as a crafting partner was rewarding. It felt like collaborating with someone who understands both the technical and creative aspects of making. This project not only helped my children express their emotions in a fun way but also taught me how to integrate technology into everyday life with the help of AI.
Overall, using ChatGPT in maker projects opens up new possibilities. It provides support, guidance, and creativity, making it an excellent tool for anyone interested in technology and crafting. Whether you’re building a simple gadget or a complex system, ChatGPT can assist you every step of the way.