Process

Idea 1: Polar Pounce

Our initial project concept involved developing an Arduino-controlled vehicle equipped with an infrared guidance system. The intended functionality was for the car to autonomously navigate an environment, collecting designated fish objects while dynamically avoiding obstacles. However, due to persistent inconsistencies in wheel operation, we encountered challenges in achieving reliable mobility and control.

After multiple troubleshooting attempts, we ultimately decided to discontinue this approach and returned to the brainstorming phase. This iterative process led to the development of an entirely new game concept, better aligned with our technical constraints and design objectives.

Initial Ideas

Wiring of the Car

Car built

Idea 2: Polar Glide

Following our previous concept iteration, we pivoted to designing a maze-based interactive system. The game mechanics involve a marble being positioned at a designated starting point within the maze. The player manipulates a joystick, which directly controls servo motors responsible for adjusting the maze's inclination along both the X and Y axes.

By precisely modulating the tilt, the user must navigate the marble through the maze toward the designated endpoint, overcoming various obstacles along the way. This control system enables dynamic movement and requires real-time user input to achieve successful completion.

Prototype 1

Prototype 2

To make our first prototype, we 3D printed a maze and frame, and used scrap wood to build a simple stand. However, we quickly found that the maze was too difficult to complete, and the stand was too flimsy to support the structure. In addition, the motors were quite hard to control, making gameplay frustrating.

For our second prototype, we redesigned the maze, this time 3D printing a larger version that was easier to navigate. To improve the stand, we laser cut wooden pieces with notches at the ends so they could interlock, creating a much stronger and more polished-looking support system. Before cutting the wood, we first laser cut the pieces out of cardboard to identify and correct any issues. We noticed that two sides needed to be slightly shorter, as the maze would bump into them when played.

Final Game

Game at Fun Labs

In our final build, we adjusted the stand’s dimensions accordingly and laser cut the wooden parts. We also designed and built a wooden container for the joystick to rest one, and made sure to add arrow indicators that would guide the player. To tie everything together, we painted all the wooden components to match our Arctic Sea theme.

Throughout the process, we learned the value of stepping back and rethinking our approach. In the beginning, we kept trying to make scrap wood work for the stand, but it was never quite strong or stable enough. Instead of forcing a flawed solution, we pivoted and got wood laser-cut to create a much sturdier, and better-looking structure. We also realized the importance of setting clear priorities. Getting the game to function smoothly always came first, and adding cool additions came second.

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