Getting Fancy
If you'd like your new glue stick archway to do more than just glow beautifully, you can use MakeCode to quickly incorporate some of Circuit Playground Express's many sensors.
For example, we can alter the original MakeCode so that the rainbow only comes on when the lights are dimmed. This code is available by opening the example below, or you can follow the steps on your own to make these changes.
First, grab an if/else
statement from the Logic block. Drag the previous code into this new if/else
statement and place that all back into the forever
block.
Insert light level
into the if true
statement. The light level is measured from 0-255 and can be adjusted to suit whatever light conditions you're in, but 120
is a good starting place.
In the else
section, drag in strip clear
from the NEOPIXEL block.
Voila! Your rainbow now responds to light and dark: by covering the light sensor on Circuit Playground Express with my hand, the rainbow is turned on.
Laser Cut Option
If you have access to a laser cutter, some acrylic parts make a beautiful and much more robust platform than cardboard can.
Pick acrylic at least as thick as the NeoPixel strip you have so that the pixels can be sandwiched between two pieces.
Download the design file below and import into your laser's software.
NOTE: you may have to adjust the hole sizes depending on the brand of glue stick you have.
Tape each NeoPixel dot down.
Sandwich the NeoPixels between the bottom two plates. This will ensure they stay firmly in place.
Alternative Designs
If a rainbow archway doesn't suit your purposes, there are many other avenues of design that can be explored.
Other matrix layouts are worth exploring. Weaving glue sticks together may also produce a strange effect.
Exploring Further
If you enjoy MakeCode and want to continue exploring you can check out lots more MakeCode projects on the Adafruit Learn System.
Page last edited March 08, 2024
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