Marble Run
An interactive marble track
Description:
Marble Runn is an interactive, mechanical installation that uses Arduino programming and physical design to create an engaging user experience. As the sole developer and designer of this project, I was responsible for everything from the initial hand-drawn sketches to the 2/3D CAD sketch modeling and final prototype creation. Despite limited resources, I managed to design and build a modular, multi-directional, semi-automatic marble track system. This project highlights my ability to blend innovative technology with a user-centered design approach to create captivating, interactive experiences.
Role:
- Academic solo project
Date:
- Sep ~ Dec, 2022
Skills:
-Prototy ping
- CAD modeling
- Arduino programming
- Mechanical design
- User experience (UX) design
The project was displayed during the winter show at NYU ITP.
Marbles naturally loop on the RED track.
Button 1 shifts marbles to the YELLOW track.
While on YELLOW , Button 2 diverts marbles to the BLUE track.
Inspiration
The idea for Marble Runn sprang from my longstanding interest in interactive mechanics and playful designs. In a digital-dominated world, I wanted to create a physical, hands-on experience that can engage and entertain people of all ages. I was particularly drawn to the idea of combining traditional play mechanisms, like a marble track, with modern technology. Working on Marble Runn gave me a wonderful opportunity to explore this concept and create a project that brought together my personal passions and technical skills in an enjoyable and meaningful way.
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Inspirational gifs found on internet
Conceptualization
Concept
The initial idea for Marble Runn came about as I was exploring how to combine interactive features with interesting visual elements. Inspired by the simplicity and unpredictability of marble tracks, I began sketching some ideas that would incorporate a unique mechanical design.
Sketch of the marble track
My early sketches centered around a modular prototype of a multi-directional, semi-automatic marble track system. I envisioned a system that would be not only fun and engaging, but also demonstrate a thoughtful design and engineering.
Mechanical Design
To make this a reality, I focused on creating a vertical conveyor setup capable of returning the marbles to the top of the track, enabling a continuous loop. I researched possible designs and created three potential choices for my project while keeping in mind the constraints of space and resources.
Marbles about 1.5 cm
~3cm gap
Conveyor wheel sketch
~1.5cm baffle
Vertical screw sketch
~3cm pitch
About 38 cm in length
~7cm width
Conveyor belt sketch
Development Process
Prototypes & Iteration
In the prototyping stage, design ideas from the initial sketches were translated into tangible cardboard prototypes. The track, the heart of Marble Runn, was the first to be prototyped. Alongside this, Arduino-controlled servos were implemented to interact with the marbles, bringing an element of dynamic motion to the design. Simultaneously, three different vertical transportation mechanisms were developed, each assessed based on feasibility and the potential for user engagement. This initial prototyping phase was crucial in converting design concepts into physical components, laying the groundwork for further development and iteration.
Cardboard prototype of a marble track and Arduino-controlled servo motors
A cardboard prototype of the first iteration of the vertical spiral
The second iteration of the conveyor screw is more stable and has a smaller angle, ensuring that the marbles do not fall out during the levitation process.
2nd iteration vertical screw
I added tapes to the four grooves to reduce friction. This helps the marbles enter the grooves without bouncing out.
Vertical wheel and it's 2nd iteration
The project initially incorporated a vertical conveyor belt system. It seemed to work well in initial tests but encountered issues with prolonged use. The fast spinning of the DC motor, unfortunately, caused the axle to wear out, disrupting the functionality of the belt system.
Vertical wheel and it's 2nd iteration
The cardboard axle holder that's been worn out.
Vertical conveyor belt
However, this unexpected issue provided an opportunity to adapt and problem-solve. Drawing on the success of the first vertical screw system, I quickly developed a second one to replace the malfunctioning conveyor. The result? A consistent, reliable, and engaging transport mechanism for the marbles.
A second vertical spiral conveyor was created to replace the looping mechanism of the third track.
Reflection
Learning Experience
Marble Runn was a comprehensive journey that honed my skills in Arduino programming, mechanical design, and user-centered design , teaching me the importance of adaptability and real-world applicability.
Project Insights
Modular and Interactive Design : The project sets a new standard for interactive installations with potential educational and entertainment applications.
Technology and De sign Synergy: The integration of Arduino programming with a user-centered approach opens up new avenues for creating captivating, technology-driven experiences.
Scalability and Adaptability: The modular nature of the design allows for easy upgrades and modifications, providing a long-term, scalable solution for interactive installations.
