Power Up Your Lego

With the release of the new Raspberry Pi Build HAT Lego Robotics add-on, I started digging around on ALS to see if we had many other Lego projects. Turns out there are quite a few Lego related projects on the Adafruit Learning System. Here are some of my favorites:

3D Printed Lego Tape

Cling bricks to windows without glue!

In this guide, we’ll show you how you can 3D print flexible lego strips. These strips are 3D printed with a rubber like material that allow it to cling to glass surfaces without any adhesives! The bottom of these strips are able adhere to glass using suction, so this allows you to build lego projects with lots of different bricks so you can make pretty cool scenes.

Lego Neon NeoPixel Sign with CircuitPython

Build a Neon-like sign with NeoPixels and CircuitPython

Build a smart DIY fume extractor with an Adafruit FunHouse and CircuitPython. Use a PWM fan and the EMC2101 controller to change the speed based on readings from an SPG30 air quality sensor.

Use CircuitPython libraries and ESP32-S2 to connect to WiFi and log sensor data to a feed and display it on a dashboard with Adafruit IO. Use the FunHouse’s built-in TFT to display bitmap graphics with fan speed and air quality. Use the built-in buttons to select options like choosing to log data. CircuitPython makes it easy to customize features, experiment with other hardware and quickly iterate.

The electronics are housed in a 3D printed enclosure that snap fits together. Use a carbon activated filter to adsorb smoke from solder fumes. The fan controller and air quality sensor are connect with STEMMA QT cables for a plug-and-play circuit. A mini fan mounted in front of the air quality sensor directs fumes for sampling and measuring. The ports on the FunHouse make it easy to power 5V peripheral.

Lego Crickit Rover

Make a two wheeled robot with Lego

Build a CRICKIT powered rover robot using LEGO pieces and 3D printed mounts! Learn how to use the Circuit Playground Express and the LEGO brick system to build a two wheeled robot. Use Microsoft MakeCode to program movements with interactive lights and sounds. LEGO is the breadboard equivalent to mechanical design. It’s modularity makes it perfect for prototyping robotics. With just two motors, an Adafruit CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express board, you can quickly make a moving robot. It’s expandable and completely customizable with 3D printing!