Yan Yi Loo

Dynamic and dedicated student with experience in tutoring, event coordination, and community engagement. Skilled in problem-solving, teamwork, and process improvement, with a passion for creating positive learning experiences. With hands-on involvement in volunteer initiatives and mentorship programs, I am committed to fostering collaborative environments and delivering meaningful impact.

The LEGO Ping Pong Launcher is a fun and engaging mechanical project that combines LEGO building techniques with basic principles of physics and engineering. The objective of this project was to create a functional launcher capable of launching ping pong balls with adjustable force and accuracy. Utilizing LEGO gears, motors, and a custom-built launcher mechanism, this project demonstrates creativity, problem-solving, and an understanding of motion dynamics.

Key Features:

• Adjustable Launching Mechanism: The launcher includes a mechanism that can control the angle and force of the shot by adjusting the tension of the rubber bands used in the system.
• Motorized Operation: The launcher is powered by a LEGO motor, which is connected to a gear system to control the release of the ping pong ball.
• Custom Design: The launcher design was built entirely from LEGO components, ensuring modularity and the ability to modify or improve the design over time.

Technologies and Skills:

• LEGO Technic: Used for building the complex mechanical components such as gears, pulleys, and launchers.
• Mechanical Engineering Concepts: Incorporated principles like tension, motion, and force to design a functional launcher.
• Problem Solving: Addressed challenges such as ensuring stability and consistent performance in the launch mechanism.
• Modular Design: The project is built with flexibility in mind, allowing for easy adjustments and improvements.

Outcome and Learnings:
This project enhanced my understanding of mechanical systems and reinforced problem-solving skills. It also sparked an interest in how simple materials and systems can work together to create functional, enjoyable devices. The project was not only a fun experiment but also a valuable hands-on application of engineering principles.

Project Overview:
The LEGO Crane is a sophisticated model that incorporates mechanical engineering principles to create a functional, motorized crane capable of lifting and moving lightweight objects. Designed with LEGO Technic pieces, this crane model features a system of gears, pulleys, and motors to simulate real-world crane operations. The project serves as an exploration into the mechanics of lifting systems, precision movement, and the application of mechanical forces.

Key Features:

• Motorized Lifting Mechanism: Utilizes LEGO motors connected to a gear system to raise and lower the crane's hook with precision.
• Rotating Base: The crane’s base is equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows the crane arm to swivel, providing enhanced flexibility in positioning.
• Functional Hook and Pulley System: A pulley system allows the crane to pick up and move objects, mimicking real-world lifting operations.
• Modular Design: The crane's components are built in a modular manner, making it easy to modify or upgrade specific parts, such as the lifting mechanism or base.

Technologies and Skills:

• LEGO Technic: Used to build the complex mechanical components, including gears, axles, and motors for the crane’s movement and lifting system.
• Mechanical Engineering Concepts: Applied principles such as torque, force, and pulley mechanics to design the lifting and rotating functions of the crane.
• Problem Solving: Tackled challenges in creating a stable base and ensuring smooth, controlled movement in the crane’s operation.

Outcome and Learnings:
This project helped me better understand the inner workings of crane systems and reinforced my ability to apply mechanical principles in real-world applications. It also provided valuable experience in constructing modular systems with LEGO and working with motors to achieve precise motion control.

Project Overview:
The Drawing Robot is an autonomous machine designed to create geometric shapes and patterns using a pen on a flat surface. Unlike the LEGO-based designs, this robot is built from custom parts and pre-designed components, focusing on precision movement and programming. The project involves assembling the robot, wiring the motors, and programming its behavior to execute specific drawing instructions.

Key Features:

• Autonomous Drawing: The robot is capable of drawing various shapes such as circles, squares, and complex patterns based on programmed instructions.
• Motorized Movement: Using DC motors and a custom-built movement system, the robot moves across the surface, guiding a pen to create accurate drawings.
• Pen Mechanism: The robot includes a mechanism that holds the pen and can lift it to control when drawing starts and stops.
• Simple Programming: The movement and drawing commands are programmed using a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino) to direct the robot’s actions, simulating an automatic plotter.

Technologies and Skills:

• Robotics: Assembled the robot with motors, wheels, and a pen holder to ensure smooth and controlled movement.
• Microcontroller Programming: Programmed the robot using an Arduino (or similar platform) to perform specific actions, such as moving in precise directions and controlling the pen.
• Mechanical Design: Integrated custom components for the movement and pen mechanisms, optimizing them for stability and accuracy in drawing.
• Problem Solving: Addressed challenges such as ensuring smooth movement and fine-tuning the programming for accurate shape creation.

Outcome and Learnings:
Building the Drawing Robot provided valuable experience in robotics and programming, helping me understand how autonomous machines can perform creative tasks. It also enhanced my skills in microcontroller programming, as I worked with the robot's hardware to ensure precise motion and drawing accuracy. This project highlighted the potential of robotics in artistic and creative fields, combining technology and creativity in a functional way.