Hi Ben. I suggested this idea last year and wanted to try again. I'd like you to build a machine that will sort mixed-color objects into individual colors. My specific request was for a Perler bead sorter. But any small object like gumballs, M&Ms, buttons, etc. will work just fine.
I found a color sensor on Adafruit and it already has well-documented Arduino libraries. Here's a link to it: http://www.adafruit.com/products/1334 (RGB Color Sensor with IR filter - TCS34725)
Here is a link to the original topic on TBHS element14: http://www.element14.com/community/thread/21376/l/show-idea-colored-bead-sorter
I think it would be a great mix of mechanics and electronics. Plus, I haven't seen you cover anything like this in your previous episodes. And it would be very useful to the DIY and crafting community. Please give it some consideration. What do you think?
Looking forward to an exciting 2014!
James