Update (Everything Completed, but LEDs may be Broken) – Andrew Mesa

The tree’s structure is completed with all the holes drilled into it to let light shine through. On scrap pieces, I was able to use spray paint and a plastic bag to create a wood texture on it, and if I have time, I plan on adding that to the structure of the tree to add some complexity to it. Furthermore, the code to switch between the four seasons on the lights is complete, and all four seasons have unique designs. I want to polish this code by adding animations that allow seasons to transition to eachother smoothly. I had planned to have the LEDs connected to the tree this week, but Sunday night, while working on the code, the LED strip stopped responding, so I may have fried it. I have an extra LED strip that I can use, but I want first to have my wiring jobs of the LEDs inspected by the professor to ensure I did it correctly. After I have it inspected, I will connect the LEDs to the tree, which should not take too long.

Structure of tree without LEDs attached
Structure of tree with light shining through

Pattern for switching between seasons and adding a unique design to each

6 Comments Add yours

  1. Codey says:

    The patterns that you have for each season are really cool. I hope that your LED’s aren’t actually burnt out and are still usable. Other than that, the structure of your tree is very well done and the holes in the branches is a good touch.

    1. Andy says:

      Thank you. I was able to get the LEDs working again after soldering and providing more power, so I am guessing it was a power issue before.

  2. Amelia says:

    I know previously you had planned on adding something physical to represent leaves, maybe some clear mesh like thing could be cool, so the colors can shine through it and add more dimension.

    1. Andy says:

      I ended up just using the LED strips themselves because in the intended dark environment it gives the impression of leaves in a more abstract way. This also has enabled me to have more control over the animations of the leaves.

  3. Michael says:

    Looks really cool, also awesome, you got the LEDs working again, the change between seasons looked really good and it was easy to distinguish each season.

  4. Liam says:

    I’m glad you were able to get the LEDs set up inside the tree and the code working the way you wanted. I liked the patters for each season, especially the one that was going from summer to fall.

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