The music box project is the first project that combines programmed LED and music appliances. In the first part of the design, I had already built a general idea of “magic box”: including the music of the famous magic girl transformation in the anime:
and the beautiful pink patterns:
Hence during the coding, I self-regulated to focus on 2 parts step by step: first music, then light formation.
Unfortunately, using the Circuit Playground Bluefruit is very challenging. When I tried to paste my code to work and test on my computer, the Bluefruit code collided with one original code in the first download package. Hence I checked it both on the forum and finally revised it a lot and it worked with the help from Audrey!
Then I tried to find the script of the music and interpreted it as coding. In this process, a step-by-step strategic plan and great patience really helped a lot. I simplified the script to single notes separately, tested various tempos, beats, blanks, and delaying time, and even added new notes such as AS5 and GS5. The debugging process is stressful, but it contributes to the final process!
Then I switched to the LED part. In this whole process, I apply the plan-do-evaluate method from class. Surprisingly, it was solved quickly by setting LED colors based on the arrangementIndex:
Colors were picked with the help of the RGB color website.
And here is the final work I got!
Honestly, I felt like this project was relatively easier than Project 1. It is not only due to the fact that I set the goals early but also because I separated them into each step I should do and it was more convenient to understand by my brain. I really enjoyed it!
Reflection
In the creative journey of designing the pink light for the magic girl music theme, I envisioned a pink metal box, intricately adorned with engraved musical notes and red butterflies. The LEDs will have various color combinations during blinking and it will cleverly be silent when there is no light. As I embarked on the coding phase of the music box, I delved into the world of digital enchantment. The code I crafted for this musical wonder was akin to weaving spells. The soft chimes of the music intermingled with the pink metal box, creating an enchanting synergy that could react to the user’s touch or the rhythm of the music. It was as if the music box had come to life, responding to the beholder’s desires with each enchanting melody.
In retrospect, these artistic endeavors echo my hesitation in the past to join costume workshops and theater crew courses. I envisioned myself as a reluctant wizard, avoiding the magical world behind the curtains, where I doubted my talents and feared the unknown intricacies of costume design. But this music box project, like a mystical incantation, helped me see the importance of embracing discomfort and believing in my own abilities.
Looking back, I would offer my former self sage advice, encouraging me to step into the enchanting world of costume design and theater without hesitation. I’d emphasize that self-efficacy is the wand that can transform doubt into confidence, and with strategic planning and unwavering determination, I could create masterpieces beyond my wildest dreams. The music box project, with its pink metal box and musical spells, reminds me that breaking down complex tasks, seeking guidance, and nurturing a growth mindset can lead to the most enchanting and rewarding learning experiences.