First you must save the face of each part as a DXF File. All of the DXF files for the original Dual and Single Player Pinball Machines is linked above. Then you can upload each file to the laser cutter software and print all the components. Ask your MakeLab's Lab Technician for assistance using the laser cutter. 

In the file linked above, each of the DXF files has a designated amount of times that each component should be printed. 

The base of the frame and the long wall for the dual pinball machine are too large for the 3D printer in MakeLab Accra. If this is the case for your machine as well, we recommend printing two halves separately then assembling them together after laser cutting. 

Additionally, there is a blank wooden piece in the CAD file that sits behind the drain wall. There is also a .jpg image in the DXF file downloadable folder. This image can be engraved onto this wooden peice. This image contains the QR Code for this website to give all students in the space information on this design and how to create similar ones. 

How to save a file as a DXF

1. Open Part 

2. Click File --> Save As 

3. Change the Save As Type to be DXF

4. Under Export Select Face

5. Then Select the side of the Part that you would like to laser cut 

6. Then click the green Check Mark

Once all your components are printed it is time to assemble! Each of the large components is double layered. Begin by stacking the identical pieces to ensure that they align. If they do not, you most likely will want to print again, or use tools to file or cut them so they align. 

We recommend having at least four people to complete this task, maybe more for the dual pinball machine. Begin with the frame. Attach both long walls to the sides of the obstacle board. 

We recommend attaching the pieces gently one layer at a time. 

Please note that the following directions outline the steps for a single player machine. However, these steps would be almost identical for the dual player machine as well. 

Then attach the short wall to the obstacle board.

Next slide all of these components on the the base of the frame

As you attach each piece be sure to use wood glue on any connecting sections to secure all components. 

Begin by cutting your pencils or dowels into pieces which are each 1 inch long using a saw. Each obstacle board needs 12 pegs. The slider also needs a dowel or pencil which is cut to be about 5.25 inches long. Once all the pieces are cut, wood glue on the bottom of each peg and put it into a peg hole on the obstacle board. Be sure to support it under for a minute or so while the glue dries, so that the pegs do not fall through the board. 

Next attach all of the drain and launcher walls. Again ensure there is wood glue between all connecting components. Refer to the CAD to ensure that the correct walls are put in the correct locations. 

Next build the dowel stabilizer by putting the two side walls onto the top wall. Then insert this component into the obstacle board. 

Attach the face of the launcher slider to the 5.25 inch pencil dowel. 

Then slide the dowel through the stabilizer and the hole in the short wall. Then attach the handle of the launcher slider 

For the single player pinball machine, attach the back wall. For the dual player pinball machine, attach the support for the curved wall. 

Next flip the board on its side so that you can access the access port on the bottom of the board. Screw the two servo motors into place. 

Then solder wires on to the buttons.

Attach these buttons in the 1/2 inch holes on the side of the pinball board. 

Flip the pinball board back to be right side up and loop the rubber band around the hooks. There are many ways to attach it. Adjust to it the tension that works best for your given rubber band. 

Lastly, once the flippers have dried, attach them to the servo motors. 

Connect the Arduino Nano to your laptop and upload the code on the the Nano. Note there are different code files for the single player and dual player system because dual player has twice as many components

If this code does not work, run the test button and test servo code to ensure that these components work. If they do not, check the wiring.