Barbie Pinball Machine
Project Overview:
The Barbie-themed pinball machine project aimed to design and implement an engaging and visually appealing pinball game using Arduino Uno microcontroller technology. Our team, comprised of Claire Hopfensperger, Dana Clark, Marguerite Smith, and Mina Yang, worked collaboratively to achieve our objectives and bring the project to fruition.
Objectives Achieved:
Design and Implementation: We successfully designed and built a Barbie-themed pinball machine using Arduino Uno microcontroller boards. The design incorporated elements inspired by Barbie's world, including vibrant colors and playful motifs.
Scoring Display: An integrated scoring display was implemented to track and showcase the player's score in real-time. The display provided feedback on points collected, remaining balls, current level, and highest score/level achieved, enhancing the gaming experience.
Flippers and Launcher Mechanism: Flippers were incorporated into the design to control the movement of the pinball, adding an interactive element to gameplay. Additionally, a launcher mechanism was developed to launch the pinball onto the playfield, enhancing user engagement.
Appealing Playfield: The playfield was intricately designed with interactive elements, including holes correlating to different point values. Sensors were installed beneath the playfield to track when balls fell through the holes, contributing to the overall gameplay experience.
Game Process:
The pinball game follows a structured process, starting with the player launching balls into the playfield or up the ramp and aiming to accumulate points within a limited number of three balls. The game features multiple levels, with increasing point requirements to advance. The player earns points by shooting the ball into three holes each worth a different amount of points. Players aim to reach the next level by satisfying the point requirement, with the game ending if the requirement is not met.
Game Features:
Rotating Launcher: The pinball machine is equipped with a rotating launcher mechanism that allows players to aim and launch the pinball onto the playfield with precision, adding a dynamic element to gameplay.
Individually Operated Flippers: Each flipper is individually operated, giving players precise control over the movement of the pinball and allowing for strategic gameplay maneuvers.
LCD Display with Scoring: An LCD display is integrated into the pinball machine to showcase the player's score in real-time. The display provides feedback on points collected, remaining balls, current level, and highest score/level achieved, enhancing the gaming experience.
Interactive Playfield: The playfield features an interactive design with various elements to challenge players and enhance gameplay. This includes:
Photosensor: A photosensor is integrated into the playfield to detect the presence of the pinball, triggering responsive actions and adding an interactive element to gameplay.
Spinning Servo Obstacle: A spinning servo obstacle is incorporated into the playfield, creating dynamic obstacles that players must navigate to progress in the game. This adds an element of unpredictability and challenge to gameplay.
Demo & Pinball Design:
Both demo videos linked below show us playing our pinball game by utilizing all of the integrated components, including the launcher, flippers, field, and display.
TESTING: Watch testing of the game here.
FINAL GAME: Watch finished gameplay here.
Decorated Pinball Machine
In order to fully convey the Barbie theme, we decorated the exterior of the pinball machine using pink construction paper, vinyl stickers, pink pipe cleaners, pink gemstones, and a printed picture of the Barbie Dream House.
Challenges Faced:
Throughout the project, we encountered several challenges, including:
Technical Complexity: Implementing the Arduino Uno microcontroller technology and integrating various components posed technical challenges that required innovative solutions and troubleshooting.
Design Iterations: Designing an appealing and functional playfield while incorporating Barbie-themed elements required multiple iterations and adjustments to achieve the desired aesthetic and gameplay experience.
Testing and Calibration: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of sensors, flippers, and the launcher mechanism required thorough testing and calibration to optimize performance.
Lessons Learned:
Our project provided valuable learning experiences, including:
Collaborative Problem-Solving: Collaborating as a team allowed us to leverage each other's strengths and expertise to overcome challenges and achieve our objectives.
Attention to Detail: Paying attention to detail during the design and implementation phases was crucial for ensuring the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the pinball machine.
Adaptability: Remaining flexible and adaptable when faced with unforeseen challenges enabled us to find creative solutions and continue making progress towards our goals.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Barbie-themed pinball machine project was a rewarding endeavor that allowed us to apply our technical skills and creativity to develop an entertaining and visually captivating game. Despite facing challenges along the way, our team successfully achieved our objectives and created a memorable gaming experience for players of all ages. We are proud of our accomplishments and look forward to future opportunities to further refine and expand upon our project.
Project Team and Responsibilities:
Date of Submission: 05/17/2024
