This automated Mini Pop-A-Shot game is the culmination of a semester-long design class that focused on rapid prototyping and design for manufacture.
Demo:
How the Design Works
The basis of the game is a two-axis linear motion system similar to that of a conventional 3D printer. A NEMA 17 stepper motor is attached to a belt on each axis that pulls the moving assemblies along roller bearing guides.
In combination with an IR break beam sensor and a 16x2 character LCD, the game tracks the player’s score (baskets made) and moves the net to a new random location upon each successful basket made.
The majority of the frame is assembled using M5 Screws and brass heat-set inserts.
Electronics:
The majority of the required electronics are soldered to the main circuit board with headers for easy component swapping as well as another small daughter board that holds the buttons necessary for adjusting the game settings.
While the ESP32 is slightly excessive for the simple motor controlling and sensing done by the game, it was used for the possibility of adding manual hoop control for a player vs player mode in the future.