CS-STEM Network

LED Sign

The final project for this unit is to construct light-up sign that spells a message and functions normally when shaken.

Basic Design Requirements
1. Design and build a cardboard or foamcore sign with at least 8 LED lights as part of its design.
2. There should be a single power switch that turns the sign on and off.
3. The entire sign should be powered by a single coin cell battery.
Build Requirements
1. You may reuse parts from earlier in this unit.
Block Diagram Requirement
1. Include a sketch of your final circuit in block diagram form with your submission. HINT: Draw the diagram before you build the circuit, so you can see whether your circuit makes sense before you spend time putting it together.
2. The diagram may be informal, but must clearly show all electrical paths, and indicate which LEDs on the diagram are which LEDs on the sign (as viewed from the front). HINT: Numbering the LEDs is a convenient way to do this.
Workmanship
1. Include a sketch of your final circuit in diagram form with your submission.
2. Draw the diagram before you build the circuit, so you can see whether your circuit makes sense before you spend time putting it together:
  - The diagram may be informal, but must clearly show all electrical paths, and indicate which LEDs on the diagram are which LEDs on the sign (as viewed from the front).
  - Numbering the LEDs is a convenient way to do this.

Core Functions 30 points

The sign must feature at least 8 LED lights. All lights must go on when the main power switch is in the ON position, and turn off when it is in the OFF position.
Cheer Test 10 points

When shaken vigorously (as during cheering), the lights must not flicker, dim, or go out. No rattling of parts should be heard or felt. No parts should come loose or fall off. The sign itself must not be in danger of coming apart (for instance due to the weight of a terminal block tearing the sign paper).
Neatness 10 points

No electronic components other than the lights themselves should be visible from the front of the sign. All wires should be of a proper length and use proper connectors -- there should be no wire loops or other components hanging loosely from the back of the sign.
Unique Improvements +5 points / additional design

+5 bonus points for each additional design feature that benefits the functionality, durability, or aesthetic appeal of the device. For instance, finding a way to disguise the mounting screws on the front of the sign, or making a two-sided sign with the electronic components sandwiched in the middle.

Sign into CS2N