BLOG-O-MATIC

Stuck indoors during the pandemic, I needed a creative outlet and a way to get exercise, so I built an open source stationary bike trainer with real-time web monitoring and controls.

I’m thrilled to announce that the second edition of Exploring Arduino, my popular book, is now available! Learn more at ExploringArduino.com.

J.A.R.V.I.S., my custom-built home automation platform, was just featured on the cover of the Wall Street Journal! Read on for an update on the system.

My (Open Source) LittleBits Hue Lighting Controller project leverages the LittleBits Arduino Bit, a small linux computer (like a BeagleBone, Raspberry Pi, or UDOO), and the Philips Hue Hub to easily control the state, brightness, and color of your Hue lightbulbs via a tactile interface.

I’m an engineer because I believe that engineers have a unique ability to touch the lives of millions of people by developing technologies that shape the human experience. In this promotional video for my alma mater, Cornell University, I explain why that philosophy is so important to me.

The Arduino project is turning 10 years old! That’s cause to celebrate. Let’s explore some of the amazing things that the Arduino platform has enabled… (and you can take 35% off the print copy of my book, Exploring Arduino!)

The uArm is an open-source (hardware and software) desktop robotic arm. It implements the same mechanics found on industrial robot arms, and easily communicates with your computer for direct control. It’s a great tool for learning about robotics. Watch my video review of the uArm to learn more!

At the 2013 Open Hardware Summit, all attendees were given a hackable, ePaper badge (lovingly called a “BADGEr”) that could be used to display our credentials during the conference, and could be used for experimentation afterwards. I paired mine with a Raspberry Pi to create an auto-updating ePaper weather station that hangs on my wall.

For my Halloween costume this year, I decided to turn myself into outer space – I sewed 12 individually addressable LEDs to my shirt, and programmed them to twinkle like stars. To complete the look, I designed and 3D printed a rocket ship that I could wear on my left arm.

In a recent guest post on Amazon.com’s Tech.Book Blog, I explored a modern shift in technologies and education that has made engineering more accessible to the general public than ever before.