https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637en-USTelligent Community 12https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:42:44 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:4a3adfcd-3cea-4e36-be20-3570cf1ddd13pchanhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637#commentsCurrent Revision posted to Documents by pchan on 1/11/2024 2:42:44 PM<br /> <p><span data-contrast="auto">In this latest episode of element14 presents, Katie and John embark on the challenge of transforming a Lego guitar into a fully functioning musical instrument. The duo starts by connecting a Raspberry Pi 3A to a robot mini-amplifier, which is then linked to a speaker. The primary challenge is incorporating functional buttons into the guitar without compromising its aesthetics.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjqkdv1u0"><span>Watch the Video:</span></h2> <p><span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TStws2ydwc8">www.youtube.com/watch</a>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><a href="#downloads" data-e14adj="t">Downloads and Links</a> | <a href="#discussion" data-e14adj="t">Discussion</a></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Initially, physical buttons were considered, but concerns about protrusion through the strings led them to explore an alternative solution. Katie introduces a Seeed Studio 12-key capacitive touch sensor (MPR121), allowing for touch-sensitive buttons. The team contemplates placing these buttons on the back of the guitar neck, making them invisible from the front while the guitar is in its stand.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;<img alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-03-81/IMG_5F00_3485.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The capacitive touch solution appears promising, offering a more discreet approach compared to physical buttons. Challenges arise in finding the right material to conceal the wiring. Katie experiments with conductive paint and tape, ultimately opting for copper tape covered with vinyl sheets to achieve a seamless integration.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-03-81/IMG_5F00_3490.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Another critical aspect is the programming of the Raspberry Pi to interpret signals from the capacitive touch sensor. Katie describes a Python program she developed that plays various guitar chords at the push of a button. The Pi is connected to the touch sensor, enabling chords to be triggered from the guitar.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-03-81/IMG_5F00_4686.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The final reveal showcases a Lego guitar that not only looks like the original, but also functions as a musical instrument with touch-sensitive controls. The team discusses the challenges they faced, providing valuable insights into the technical aspects of programming and problem-solving for electronics enthusiasts combining Lego builds with functional components.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-03-81/IMG_5F00_4692.JPG" /></span></p> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjsf53v72">Links and Downloads:<a id="downloads" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank" data-e14adj="t"></a></h2> <ul> <li><a href="/challenges-projects/element14-presents/m/files/148747" data-e14adj="t">Download Code and Files</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjsf3tfu1">Bill of Material:</h2> <table class="e14-product-bom-main"> <tbody> <tr> <th>Product Name</th> <th>Quantity</th> <th><a id="e14-product-link-9b916" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2946269,3879376,4007746,2770433,3769893,2787061,4160097&nsku=80AC9303,29AK8618,42AK5715,24AC9541,52AJ4989,02AH4906,78AK7879&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_BUY_KIT" class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('9b916'));" data-farnell="2946269,3879376,4007746,2770433,3769893,2787061,4160097" data-newark="80AC9303,29AK8618,42AK5715,24AC9541,52AJ4989,02AH4906,78AK7879" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Kit</a> </th> </tr> <tr> <td>RASPBERRY-PI SBC, Raspberry Pi3 A+, BCM2837B0, ARM Cortex-A53, 512MB RAM, MicroSD, Wifi, HDMI, 1&times;USB 2.0</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-bd4d0" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2946269&nsku=80AC9303&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('bd4d0'));" data-farnell="2946269" data-newark="80AC9303" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="SC14977" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>MULTICOMP PRO MicroSD Card, 32 GB, Raspberry Pi</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-fa21d" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=3879376&nsku=29AK8618&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('fa21d'));" data-farnell="3879376" data-newark="29AK8618" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>SEEED STUDIO Touch Sensor Board, with Cable, Capacitive, I2C, Arduino &amp; Raspberry Pi Board</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-92d8a" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=4007746&nsku=42AK5715&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('92d8a'));" data-farnell="4007746" data-newark="42AK5715" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>MULTICOMP&nbsp;MC001814 Tape, General Purpose, Copper Foil, 10 mm x 50 m</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-4a293" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2770433&nsku=24AC9541&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('4a293'));" data-farnell="2770433" data-newark="24AC9541" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>DFROBOT Evaluation Board, Mini Audio Stereo Amplifier, 3.3 V to 5.5 V Supply, Class D Amplifier</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-7a714" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=3769893&nsku=52AJ4989&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('7a714'));" data-farnell="3769893" data-newark="52AJ4989" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>VISATON Speaker, Full Range, 2 W, 8 ohm, 150 Hz to 20 kHz</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-ab9ef" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2787061&nsku=02AH4906&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('ab9ef'));" data-farnell="2787061" data-newark="02AH4906" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>PRO SIGNAL 3.5MM JACK PLUG TO BARE ENDS -1M</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-dceb4" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=4160097&nsku=78AK7879&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('dceb4'));" data-farnell="4160097" data-newark="78AK7879" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr class="xs-hide"> <td>&nbsp;</td> <td></td> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p></p> <div style="background:#ffffff;border:1px solid #dadada;margin:0;padding:14px 16px 16px 18px;vertical-align:top;"> <div style="display:inline-block;float:left;padding:0px 25px 8px 0px;"><a href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/" data-e14adj="t"><img loading="lazy" alt="element14 presents" src="/e14/assets/legacy/2018/e14PresentsJune818.png" width="180px" /></a></div> <div style="display:inline-block;vertical-align:top;width:70%;"><br /> <p style="margin:0;"><span><a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/" data-e14adj="t">element14 presents</a></span>&nbsp; <strong>|</strong>&nbsp; <a class="jive-link-wiki-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/vcp-program/w/documents/5024/vcp-biography-katie" data-e14adj="t">About Katie Dumont</a>&nbsp;<span style="padding-right:5px;"></span><strong>|</strong>&nbsp; <a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/project-videos/" data-e14adj="t">Project Videos</a><a id="discussion" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank" data-e14adj="t"></a><a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/project-videos/" data-e14adj="t"></a></p> <p style="margin:0;"></p> </div> </div><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: e14p_KD, Creative Lego builds with Raspberry Pi, Lego guitar technical challenges, Raspberry Pi guitar chords project, DIY Lego guitar with touch controls, Raspberry Pi touch-sensitive Lego creation, Electronics engineering in hobbyist projects, Capacitive touch sensor programming, Seeed Studio touch sensor I²C communication, Raspberry Pi musical instrument, Raspberry Pi Python programming tutorial, Lego guitar electronics project, Seeed Studio 12-key touch Sensor, Functional Lego musical instrument, Lego electronics and programming, friday_release, Electronics integration in Lego builds</div> https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637/revision/2Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:42:44 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:4a3adfcd-3cea-4e36-be20-3570cf1ddd13tariq.ahmadhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637#commentsRevision 2 posted to Documents by tariq.ahmad on 1/11/2024 2:42:44 PM<br /> <p><span data-contrast="auto">In this latest episode of element14 presents, Katie and John embark on the challenge of transforming a Lego guitar into a fully functioning musical instrument. The duo starts by connecting a Raspberry Pi 3A to a robot mini-amplifier, which is then linked to a speaker. The primary challenge is incorporating functional buttons into the guitar without compromising its aesthetics.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjqkdv1u0"><span>Watch the Video:</span></h2> <p><span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TStws2ydwc8">www.youtube.com/watch</a>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><a href="#downloads" data-e14adj="t">Downloads and Links</a> | <a href="#discussion" data-e14adj="t">Discussion</a></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Initially, physical buttons were considered, but concerns about protrusion through the strings led them to explore an alternative solution. Katie introduces a Seeed Studio 12-key capacitive touch sensor (MPR121), allowing for touch-sensitive buttons. The team contemplates placing these buttons on the back of the guitar neck, making them invisible from the front while the guitar is in its stand.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;<img alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_3485.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The capacitive touch solution appears promising, offering a more discreet approach compared to physical buttons. Challenges arise in finding the right material to conceal the wiring. Katie experiments with conductive paint and tape, ultimately opting for copper tape covered with vinyl sheets to achieve a seamless integration.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_3490.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Another critical aspect is the programming of the Raspberry Pi to interpret signals from the capacitive touch sensor. Katie describes a Python program she developed that plays various guitar chords at the push of a button. The Pi is connected to the touch sensor, enabling chords to be triggered from the guitar.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_4686.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The final reveal showcases a Lego guitar that not only looks like the original, but also functions as a musical instrument with touch-sensitive controls. The team discusses the challenges they faced, providing valuable insights into the technical aspects of programming and problem-solving for electronics enthusiasts combining Lego builds with functional components.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_4692.JPG" /></span></p> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjsf53v72">Links and Downloads:<a id="downloads" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank" data-e14adj="t"></a></h2> <ul> <li><a href="/challenges-projects/element14-presents/m/files/148747" data-e14adj="t">Download Code and Files</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjsf3tfu1">Bill of Material:</h2> <table class="e14-product-bom-main"> <tbody> <tr> <th>Product Name</th> <th>Quantity</th> <th><a id="e14-product-link-4597a" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2946269,3879376,4007746,2770433,3769893,2787061,4160097&nsku=80AC9303,29AK8618,42AK5715,24AC9541,52AJ4989,02AH4906,78AK7879&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_BUY_KIT" class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('4597a'));" data-farnell="2946269,3879376,4007746,2770433,3769893,2787061,4160097" data-newark="80AC9303,29AK8618,42AK5715,24AC9541,52AJ4989,02AH4906,78AK7879" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Kit</a> </th> </tr> <tr> <td>RASPBERRY-PI SBC, Raspberry Pi3 A+, BCM2837B0, ARM Cortex-A53, 512MB RAM, MicroSD, Wifi, HDMI, 1&times;USB 2.0</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-ba17c" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2946269&nsku=80AC9303&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('ba17c'));" data-farnell="2946269" data-newark="80AC9303" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="SC14977" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>MULTICOMP PRO MicroSD Card, 32 GB, Raspberry Pi</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-acba1" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=3879376&nsku=29AK8618&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('acba1'));" data-farnell="3879376" data-newark="29AK8618" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>SEEED STUDIO Touch Sensor Board, with Cable, Capacitive, I2C, Arduino &amp; Raspberry Pi Board</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-7de4a" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=4007746&nsku=42AK5715&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('7de4a'));" data-farnell="4007746" data-newark="42AK5715" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>MULTICOMP&nbsp;MC001814 Tape, General Purpose, Copper Foil, 10 mm x 50 m</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-4f6f4" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2770433&nsku=24AC9541&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('4f6f4'));" data-farnell="2770433" data-newark="24AC9541" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>DFROBOT Evaluation Board, Mini Audio Stereo Amplifier, 3.3 V to 5.5 V Supply, Class D Amplifier</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-3775b" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=3769893&nsku=52AJ4989&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('3775b'));" data-farnell="3769893" data-newark="52AJ4989" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>VISATON Speaker, Full Range, 2 W, 8 ohm, 150 Hz to 20 kHz</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-0eda2" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=2787061&nsku=02AH4906&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('0eda2'));" data-farnell="2787061" data-newark="02AH4906" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>PRO SIGNAL 3.5MM JACK PLUG TO BARE ENDS -1M</td> <td>1</td> <td><a id="e14-product-link-a0324" data-at-areainteracted="rte-content" data-at-type="click" data-at-link-type="button" href="https://referral.element14.com/OrderCodeView?fsku=4160097&nsku=78AK7879&COM=e14c-noscript&CMP=e14c-noscript&osetc=e14-noscript-tracking-loss" data-at-label="PRODUCT_POPUP_OPEN"class="e14-embedded e14_shopping-cart-far e14-button" onclick="event.preventDefault();e14.func.displayProduct(e14.meta.user.country, this, 'embedded-link', e14.func.getProductLinkJSON('a0324'));" data-farnell="4160097" data-newark="78AK7879" data-comoverride="" data-cmpoverride="" data-cpc="" data-avnetemea="" data-avnetema="" data-avnetasia="" >Buy Now</a> </td> </tr> <tr class="xs-hide"> <td>&nbsp;</td> <td></td> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p></p> <div style="background:#ffffff;border:1px solid #dadada;margin:0;padding:14px 16px 16px 18px;vertical-align:top;"> <div style="display:inline-block;float:left;padding:0px 25px 8px 0px;"><a href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/" data-e14adj="t"><img loading="lazy" alt="element14 presents" src="/e14/assets/legacy/2018/e14PresentsJune818.png" width="180px" /></a></div> <div style="display:inline-block;vertical-align:top;width:70%;"><br /> <p style="margin:0;"><span><a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/" data-e14adj="t">element14 presents</a></span>&nbsp; <strong>|</strong>&nbsp; <a class="jive-link-wiki-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/vcp-program/w/documents/5024/vcp-biography-katie" data-e14adj="t">About Katie Dumont</a>&nbsp;<span style="padding-right:5px;"></span><strong>|</strong>&nbsp; <a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/project-videos/" data-e14adj="t">Project Videos</a><a id="discussion" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank" data-e14adj="t"></a><a class="jivecontainerTT-hover-container jive-link-community-small" href="/challengesprojects/element14-presents/project-videos/" data-e14adj="t"></a></p> <p style="margin:0;"></p> </div> </div><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: e14p_KD, Creative Lego builds with Raspberry Pi, Lego guitar technical challenges, Raspberry Pi guitar chords project, DIY Lego guitar with touch controls, Raspberry Pi touch-sensitive Lego creation, Electronics engineering in hobbyist projects, Capacitive touch sensor programming, Seeed Studio touch sensor I²C communication, Raspberry Pi musical instrument, Raspberry Pi Python programming tutorial, Lego guitar electronics project, Seeed Studio 12-key touch Sensor, Functional Lego musical instrument, Lego electronics and programming, friday_release, Electronics integration in Lego builds</div> https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637/revision/1Wed, 10 Jan 2024 21:35:57 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:4a3adfcd-3cea-4e36-be20-3570cf1ddd13tariq.ahmadhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/element14-presents/project-videos/w/documents/28386/making-music-with-a-lego-guitar-and-capacitive-touch----episode-637#commentsRevision 1 posted to Documents by tariq.ahmad on 1/10/2024 9:35:57 PM<br /> <p><span data-contrast="auto">In this latest episode of element14 presents, Katie and John embark on the challenge of transforming a Lego guitar into a fully functioning musical instrument. The duo starts by connecting a Raspberry Pi 3A to a robot mini-amplifier, which is then linked to a speaker. The primary challenge is incorporating functional buttons into the guitar without compromising its aesthetics.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <h2 id="mcetoc_1hjqkdv1u0"><span>Watch the Video:</span></h2> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Initially, physical buttons were considered, but concerns about protrusion through the strings led them to explore an alternative solution. Katie introduces a Seeed Studio 12-key capacitive touch sensor (MPR121), allowing for touch-sensitive buttons. The team contemplates placing these buttons on the back of the guitar neck, making them invisible from the front while the guitar is in its stand.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;<img alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_3485.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The capacitive touch solution appears promising, offering a more discreet approach compared to physical buttons. Challenges arise in finding the right material to conceal the wiring. Katie experiments with conductive paint and tape, ultimately opting for copper tape covered with vinyl sheets to achieve a seamless integration.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_3490.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Another critical aspect is the programming of the Raspberry Pi to interpret signals from the capacitive touch sensor. Katie describes a Python program she developed that plays various guitar chords at the push of a button. The Pi is connected to the touch sensor, enabling chords to be triggered from the guitar.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_4686.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The final reveal showcases a Lego guitar that not only looks like the original, but also functions as a musical instrument with touch-sensitive controls. The team discusses the challenges they faced, providing valuable insights into the technical aspects of programming and problem-solving for electronics enthusiasts combining Lego builds with functional components.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><img loading="lazy" alt="image" style="max-height:360px;max-width:640px;" src="/resized-image/__size/1280x720/__key/communityserver-wikis-components-files/00-00-00-04-35/IMG_5F00_4692.JPG" /></span></p> <p><span></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: e14p_KD, Creative Lego builds with Raspberry Pi, Lego guitar technical challenges, Raspberry Pi guitar chords project, DIY Lego guitar with touch controls, Raspberry Pi touch-sensitive Lego creation, Electronics engineering in hobbyist projects, Capacitive touch sensor programming, Seeed Studio touch sensor I²C communication, Raspberry Pi musical instrument, Raspberry Pi Python programming tutorial, Lego guitar electronics project, Seeed Studio 12-key touch Sensor, Functional Lego musical instrument, Lego electronics and programming, Electronics integration in Lego builds</div>