This document outlines "Project № 1: Play Bongo Congo drums using drawings" with the Croc&Play board.
Function Description:
The Croc&Play board allows users to create interactive musical instruments, specifically Bongo Congo drums, by drawing conductive "buttons" on paper or cardboard. These drawings, when connected to the board, act as touch sensors, enabling users to play virtual drums through a computer program. The system leverages the principle of conductivity, allowing various conductive materials like fruits, metallic objects, and moist clay to also function as interactive inputs. This project is designed to be an engaging and accessible introduction to physical computing and interactive design, particularly for beginners.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Input Method: Conductive drawings (e.g., made with pencils on paper/cardboard), or other conductive materials such as fruits, metallic objects, and moist clay.
- Connectivity: Alligator clips are used to connect the conductive drawings to specific inputs on the Croc&Play board.
- Board Inputs Used: "Left arrow" and "space" inputs on the Croc&Play board are designated for the two drum buttons. The order of connection for these two inputs does not matter.
- Grounding Mechanism: A tinfoil bracelet worn on the wrist and connected to the "Ground" input of the Croc&Play board ensures continuous grounding of the circuit. This allows the user to complete the circuit and play the drums with both hands.
- Computer Connection: The Croc&Play board connects to a computer via a Mini USB cable.
- Software Platform: The accompanying program is developed using Scratch, a block-based visual programming language, making it easy to understand and modify. Users can access the "Bongo congo" program directly on the Scratch website.
Usage Features:
- Ease of Setup: The project involves simple steps: drawing two drum buttons, connecting them with alligator clips, creating and wearing a tinfoil grounding bracelet, and connecting the Croc&Play board to a computer.
- Beginner-Friendly: With a "Beginner" difficulty level, this project is suitable for individuals new to physical computing or electronics.
- Quick Engagement: The estimated duration for the exercise is 30 minutes, allowing for a relatively quick and satisfying learning experience.
- Interactive Play: Users can play the virtual Bongo Congo drums by touching their drawn buttons while wearing the grounding bracelet.
- Versatile Input Materials: Beyond drawings, the system supports a wide range of conductive materials, encouraging experimentation and creativity in designing interactive inputs.
- Scratch Integration: The use of Scratch provides a visual and intuitive programming environment, allowing users to not only play the game but also explore and understand the underlying code. The program can be accessed and played directly from the Scratch website.
- Two-Handed Play: The grounding mechanism enables users to play the drums with both hands, enhancing the interactive experience.
- Program Start: The program is initiated by pressing the green flag within the Scratch interface, followed by touching the "space" button on the Croc&Play board.
Maintenance Features:
- Material Accessibility: The project utilizes common and readily available materials such as paper, cardboard, pencils, and tinfoil, making it easy to replicate and maintain.
- Reusable Components: The Croc&Play Kit, including the board and alligator clips, is reusable for numerous other projects.
- Simple Troubleshooting: The clear instructions and visual nature of the connections (alligator clips to drawings/materials) simplify troubleshooting common issues. Ensuring the tinfoil bracelet is in direct contact with the skin is a key maintenance point for consistent grounding.
- Digital Program Maintenance: As the program is hosted on Scratch, updates or modifications can be managed within the Scratch platform, ensuring the software component remains functional and accessible.
To Next Page
Need help?
General