Aim:

Build and present a working smart machine using at least one actuator and one sensor that solves a real-world problem.

Requirements:

• Arduino Uno or Raspberry Pi Pico

• At least one actuator (motor, buzzer, LED, servo, etc.)

• At least one sensor (IR, gas, LDR, ultrasonic, temperature, etc.)

• Breadboard and jumper wires

• Supporting materials for your design (cardboard, tape, plastic casing, etc.)

• USB cable and coding software (Arduino IDE or Thonny)

Working principle:

A smart machine works on this sequence:

Sense → Process → Act → Inform

1. Sense – The sensor detects an event (e.g., motion, temperature rise, gas leak).

2. Process – The controller (Arduino/Pico) reads the sensor data and makes a decision based on your code.

3. Act – The actuator responds (e.g., buzzer rings, light turns on, motor starts).

4. Inform – The system may give feedback (LED signal, display message, sound).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Problem Selection

• Look for a real-life issue you can solve. Examples:
  • Water wastage in gardens → Smart irrigation system

  • Light wastage → Automatic room light controller

  • Safety → Gas leak alarm

  • Pet care → Automatic feeder

Step 2: Planning

• Draw a block diagram showing sensor → controller → actuator connections.

• List all required components.

• Decide on the type of power supply.

Step 3: Building the Circuit

• Connect your sensor to the controller.

• Connect your actuator to the controller.

• Ensure proper power and common ground.

Step 4: Writing the Code

• Use if-else conditions to respond to sensor input.

• Test code with simple print statements before activating actuators.

Step 5: Testing

• Check if the sensor detects correctly.

• Ensure actuator responds instantly and correctly.

• Make adjustments in sensitivity, timing, or wiring if needed.

Step 6: Presentation

• Prepare a short explanation:
  • Problem solved

  • How it works

  • Benefits

• Show your device working live or via video.