Ultrasonic sensor for micro:bit

Explanation:

1. Import necessary libraries:

   • from microbit import *: Imports all necessary functions and classes from the micro:bit library.

2. Define pins:

   • trigger_pin = pin12: Assigns the trigger pin to pin12 on the micro:bit.
   • echo_pin = pin13: Assigns the echo pin to pin13 on the micro:bit.

3. get_distance() function:

   • Sends a short pulse to the trigger pin to initiate the measurement.
   • Waits for the echo pulse to start.
   • Measures the duration of the echo pulse.
   • Calculates the distance using the speed of sound (approximately 0.017 cm/us).
   • Returns the calculated distance in centimeters.

4. Main loop:

   • Calls the get_distance() function to measure the distance.
   • Displays the measured distance on the micro:bit’s LED display.
   • Waits for 1 second before taking the next measurement.

To use this code:

1. Connect the ultrasonic sensor to the micro:bit: Connect the trigger pin to pin12, the echo pin to pin13, VCC to 3.3V, and GND to GND.
2. Upload the code: Copy and paste the code into the MakeCode editor and upload it to your micro:bit.

This is a basic example, and you can modify it to suit your specific needs. For example, you can:

• Add obstacle avoidance: If the distance to an object is below a certain threshold, stop the robot or change direction.
• Display the distance on an external display: Connect an LCD or OLED display to the micro:bit and display the distance reading.  
• Log data: Store the distance measurements in a file or send them to another device.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. You’re encountering an error because the microbit library is not available in this environment. The provided code is specifically designed for the micro:bit platform.

To run this code, you’ll need to be using a micro:bit with the MakeCode editor or a Python environment specifically set up for micro:bit development.

Here’s how you can run this code on a micro:bit:

1. Use MakeCode:

   • Open the MakeCode editor for micro:bit (available online at makecode.microbit.org).
   • Paste the code into the editor.
   • Connect your micro:bit to your computer using a USB cable.
   • Click “Download” to download the compiled code to your micro:bit.

2. Use a Python Environment (more advanced):

   • Set up a Python environment with the micropython library installed.
   • Save the code to a .py file.
   • Copy the file to your micro:bit’s storage.
   • Run the code on your micro:bit.

Explanation of the Code:

• trigger_pin and echo_pin: These variables define the pins connected to the trigger and echo pins of the ultrasonic sensor.  
• get_distance() function:
  • Sends a short pulse to the trigger pin.
  • Waits for the echo pulse to start and then measures the duration.
  • Calculates the distance based on the speed of sound.
• while True loop:
  • Continuously measures the distance and displays it on the micro:bit’s screen.

Important Notes:

• Sensor Calibration: Ultrasonic sensors may require calibration for accurate readings.
• Power Supply: Ensure the micro:bit and the sensor have a stable power supply.
• Safety: Always handle electronics with care and follow safety guidelines.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.