Task 2: Heliotropic Light Sensor

he objective of this second task was to create a light detector that follows the light source the detector is exposed to. We obtained code fromhttp://arduinofun.com/blog/?p=529, which directs servo motion to the left or the right based on a comparison of the intensity of light detected by two LDR light sensors. We altered the code from the blog to accommodate three sensors, the third placed in the center of the two to determine when the light was located directly at the center. Six sensors were used in total, three for the x-axis controlling servo, attached at the bottom of the cardboard column, and three used for the y-axis, a sideways placed servo at the top of the column.








Group work this week went much better than the first week, at least in my opinion. I know I felt more involved in the design and problem solving process than I had the first week, and I can say I was more excited about the development of the result, as well as the thought process for improving and strengthening our design.

A comment on our group dynamics- There were two group members who, in the first day of working, seemed to have a hard time getting involved, and another who, again in the first day, was at a loss for most of our time how they could be involved in the development. However, when we had some more specific roles in building, programming, and trouble shooting, it was clear that the members who hadn't been as involved in thinking about the programming and mechanics of the design, could be more involved in the actual fabrication and assembly of the detector. This situation definitely brought to my attention the differences in our educations. I hadn't expected individuals to watch and wait until we reached a point that they felt they understood and could contribute to.  In my experience in the engineering school, if you don't understand something you ask questions until you understand and know what's happening and how you can give your input. This isn't a criticism, but more a realization that not everyone is willing to ask questions.

I hope that realizing this tendency is something that I can help prevent in future groups. It's important to have everyone involved in giving input, as well as to be able to feel excited about the decisions the group is making. This isn't a class where partial participation works, everyone needs to contribute and work to achieve the very lofty goals we have set before us, and the easier we make this for other people, the more exciting things we'll be able to develop and build together!