Problem Statement
I wanted to explore fundamental electronics and simple robotics without needing to be an expert. This involved building basic circuits to light up LEDs and view waveforms, programming a small robot, and sharing my research on electronic waste.
Lab Experiments
• Constructed and analyzed fundamental circuits on a breadboard using resistors, capacitors, LEDs, and battery power sources
• Utilized a digital oscilloscope to observe voltage and current waveforms, gaining insight into signal behavior and real time circuit responses
• Compared theoretical calculations with experimental measurements, evaluating accuracy through mathematical analysis and percent error
mBot Coding
• Programmed an mBot robot using software and logic to execute autonomous behaviors
• Implemented routines for line tracking, obstacle detection, LED control, and audio feedback using sensor inputs and conditional statements
• Strengthened understanding of how software interfaces with embedded hardware by integrating sensors
Research Paper
• Connected concepts from my lab experiments and mBot programming to sustainability by examining how efficient circuit design, low-power operation, and modular embedded systems can extend device lifespan and reduce electronic waste
• Applied these insights to my e-waste research, emphasizing how responsible engineering practices such as optimizing hardware usage and designing code, play a critical role in minimizing environmental impact.
Bill of Materials (BOM)
| Item | Component | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breadboard | 1 | prototyping circuits |
| 2 | Resistors | various | current limiting |
| 3 | Capacitors | various | charge storage |
| 4 | Batteries | 1 | power supply |
| 5 | LEDs | various | indicators |
| 6 | Oscilloscope | 1 | waveform visualization |
| 7 | Digital Multimeter | 1 | measuring voltages, currents, resistance |
| 8 | mBot | 1 | coding robot |