If children are learning Arduino, what exactly is Arduino? What is its use? Today, let’s explore the world of Arduino together!
01
What is Arduino?
Arduino is a convenient, flexible, and easy-to-use hardware development platform that includes various models of Arduino control boards and dedicated programming development software (Arduino IDE). Arduino simplifies many complicated low-level developments, allowing people to focus on functionality and quickly develop smart hardware prototypes. The hardware of Arduino is also relatively inexpensive, making it a hardware development platform suitable for everyone.
02
What functions can Arduino achieve?
We can imagine Arduino as a computer, where the main unit is responsible for data processing and coordinating various devices. There are input devices for receiving operations, such as buttons and sensors, and output devices for displaying or executing commands, like LED lights, buzzers, motors, robots, 3D printers, wearable devices, and so on. When these components are combined, they form a mini smart hardware system! We can create our own smart hardware!
03
What can Arduino do?
Your digital TV, refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, air conditioner, air purifier, etc., are all controlled by microcontrollers, and Arduino can do all these tasks. Previously, developing with microcontrollers required a lot of hardware knowledge, and controlling ports was quite cumbersome! Using Arduino as a development platform simplifies the process, making it possible for even elementary school students to design and develop their own electronic creative products.
Below are some practical cases collected by the author from creative users in their daily lives:
1. Create a sound and light-driven dog deterrent
Purpose: To prevent dogs from entering the kitchen
Hardware: Arduino, infrared sensor, buzzer, tri-color LED
Function: Infrared detects the dog entering the kitchen, tri-color light flashes and emits a siren sound; the alarm stops 30 seconds after the dog leaves.
2. Voice distance indicator for the blind
Purpose: A small device for the blind
Hardware: Arduino, ultrasonic sensor, buzzer
Function: Indicates the distance to objects ahead with sound frequency and interval.
3. Any music playback module
Purpose: To enhance hands-on ability for children who love music
Hardware: Arduino, MP3 module, sound module, touch keyboard
Function: Can play favorite music according to simple scores while reading music stored in the MP3 module and special sounds like 110, 120, 119!
Let me also share some exciting small experiments created based on Arduino:
(1) Use Arduino to create a flowing breathing light
(2) Use Arduino to create a single die
(3) Use Arduino to create a fire alarm
(4) Use Arduino and 3D printing technology to DIY a lucky cat
