Building an affordable self-driving lab: Practical machine learning experiments for physics education using Internet-of-Things

Abstract

Machine learning (ML) is transforming modern physics research, but practical, hands-on experience with ML techniques remains limited due to cost and complexity barriers. To address this gap, we introduce an affordable, autonomous, Internet-of-Things (IoT)-enabled experimental platform designed specifically for applied physics education. Utilizing an Arduino microcontroller, a customizable multi-wavelength light emitting diode array, and photosensors, our setup generates diverse, real-time optical datasets ideal for training and evaluating foundational ML algorithms, including traversal methods, Bayesian inference, and deep learning. The platform facilitates a closed-loop, self-driving experimental workflow, encompassing automated data collection, preprocessing, model training, and validation. Through systematic performance comparisons, we demonstrate the superior ability of deep learning to capture complex nonlinear relationships compared to traversal and Bayesian methods. At ∼$60, this open-source IoT platform provides an accessible, practical pathway for students to master advanced ML concepts, promoting deeper conceptual insights and essential technical skills required for the next generation of physicists and engineers.