Applications and Implications¶
Goals¶
Propose a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered.
Your project should incorporate:
- 2D and 3D design
- Additive and subtractive fabrication processes
- Electronics design and production
- Embedded microcontroller interfacing and programming
- System integration and packaging.
What will it do?¶
This mini-golf course would be playable, with several features added to enhance the experience. A 3D-printed drawbridge with a potentiometer to modify the speed challenges the timing of the shot. A path along the course with a golf cart requires further precision.
To add realism, I sanded down slopes and divots from the milled material. I also laid AstroTurf over the course to imitate outdoor courses.
Who has done what beforehand?¶
While most mini golf courses are functionally similar, automated ones include Lucky Putt and Hyper Golf. These are higher-tech and larger in scope. Several courses also track the ball, such as Puttshack.
What will you design?¶
Milling¶
- Sides of the course
- Tee box
- Green
Molding¶
- Bunker
- Lake
3D Printing¶
- Drawbrige
PCB¶
- Drawbridge mechanism
What materials and components will be used?¶
| Qty | Description | Price | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 48*96 inch Plywood | In Lab | ||
| 2 | ESP32S3 | In Lab | ||
| 2 | DR-8815 | In Lab | ||
| 1 | Servo | In Lab | ||
| 1 roll | AstroTurf | $19.99 | Amazon |
What parts and systems will be made?¶
Along with a basic layout, there will be electrical systems, 3D printed attachments, and molded containers.
What processes will be used?¶
CNC milling, 3D printing, circuit milling, as well as molding and casting.
What questions need to be answered?¶
- Will I have time to integrate a moving golf cart into this?
- How would I create a path winding down the course?
What problems need to be solved?¶
- Scheduling time to mill out the course
- Electronics, both function and placement
How will it be evaluated?¶
The golfer should be able to putt across the course and into the hole. The mechanisms should be able to move at regular intervals and provide a proper challenge.
What tasks still need to be completed?¶
My Gantt Chart is here.
The chart shows timelines, milestones, and individual task progress.
What has worked?¶
- Layout design
- Initial circuit
What hasn’t?¶
- Course
- Drawbridge
- Water mill
What have you learned?¶
- Creating PCBs from TinkerCad simulation, to breadboards, to KiCad, to milling, to soldering, and finally testing.
- Structuring CAD designs around physical parts and the measurement techniques required to do so.