Integration of Sensors and Actuators in Mechanical Systems for Makerspace Applications

This independent study developed and implemented a workshop for the SLMP Makerspace that introduced microprocessors and actuators by guiding beginner makers through building a tilt- controlled marble maze using the Adafruit Circuit Playground Express (CPX). Participants learned to integrate the CPX’s onboard accelerometer with servo motors to control the maze’s movement, while gaining foundational skills in wiring and programming using Circuit Python or Arduino IDE. The workshop was designed to be accessible for those new to microprocessor integration, while still offering a meaningful introduction to core concepts in sensor-driven systems. It complements a Makerspace training module on Sensors and Actuators, currently in development, by reinforcing key concepts and ensuring that participants leave with both a solid understanding of the material and practical skills they can apply to their own projects. The training module will guide users toward more effective sensor and actuator selection, actuator control, implementation, and troubleshooting of common issues by providing detailed guidance using simple projects.