As part of a university course, Diego Serranor was tasked with designing a model lift (or elevator) - and he's accomplished this quite well. Such a project is a good demonstration of how you can create automated devices that respond to user input with an Arduino.
The carriage position is determined with a series of photocells and LEDs, allowing the system to determine the correct position to stop when required. Call buttons and a level display are also used for realism compared to the real thing.
This could also be fitted to a more extravagant dolls house, or even made from LEGO for fun. Either way, to learn how visit the project's Instructable page. And for more, we're on facebook, Google+, and twitter - so follow us for news and product updates as well.
If you're looking into starting with Arduino and motor control, such as controlling a DC motor (or stepper motor) from your Arduino or compatible, check out our HBRIDGE: DC/stepper motor shield. Based around the powerful Allegro A4954 H-bridge driver IC you can control two DC motors with complete ease, or one bipolar stepper motor. With connections for external power management, a complete beginners' guide and documentation - motor control couldn't be any easier. For more information and to order, visit the HBRIDGE: page.