Advanced Laser Tag System Design and Development for Multiplayer Gaming Experience
The Laser Tag System project, developed by Chris Mikolajeski, Greg Matsura, and Neil Krzyske at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, aims to create an innovative multiplayer laser tag experience. Players are equipped with vests and guns, with scores automatically tracked on a wireless game server. The system is expandable for up to 60 players across multiple teams. Key activities include implementing IR communications, integrating wireless technology using Zigbee, and developing embedded software for real-time gameplay. The project has made significant progress and is set for continued development.
Advanced Laser Tag System Design and Development for Multiplayer Gaming Experience
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Presentation Transcript
Laser Tag System Chris MikolajeskiGreg MatsuraNeil Krzyske ECE 4982 – Winter 2010 Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering University of Michigan - Dearborn Advisors: Professor Miller Professor Natarajan
Project Description • Laser Tag System • Each player is given a vest and gun. • Score is automatically kept on a game server that is wirelessly updated. • The vest/gun will be battery powered. • Two vests and guns will be designed but the system will be expandable up to 4 teams of 15 players.
Responsibilities • Chris • IR transmission • Game feedback • Greg • Wireless Server • Computer Interface • Neil • Wireless Server • Vest integration
(Chris) IR Communications • Selected and ordered IR LEDs and IR receivers • Implemented modulation and basic UART communication • Test achieved 50+ feet of distance with minimal data loss • Need to implement lens system and error check
(Chris) Vest and Gun Progress • Selected and ordered dsPIC30F3011 processers • Ordered vibration motors, visible lasers, LCDs, LEDs, and buzzers • Implemented IR communications • Implemented Team color LEDs with an I2C General purpose I/O chip • Started writing basic control software using MikroC for dsPIC
(Chris) Project Activities • Currently work • Implementing each part of the vest gun design • Future work • Finish final part implementation • Integrate Xbee wireless • Design final embedded software with all game parameters • Test and streamline design • Build prototype circuit boards
(Greg) Zigbee Wireless • The Zigbee (802.15.4) protocol is a low power form of wireless communication, useful in embedded systems. • Project requires wireless communication between vest and server. • An Xbee-Pro Starter Kit for this project was acquired from Professor Natarajan.
(Greg) Wireless Progress • Found user guides, product manuals, power cables and interface cables for the out-of-box Xbee devices. • Received Signal Strength (RSS) tests of over 10 feet initially. • User interface for the Game Server will be developed after Xbee modules are ready to be integrated with the vest.
(Greg) Project Activities • Assisted in IR transmission, proprietary setup and initial LED integration. • Acquired Xbee wireless modules and required cables, etc. • Began configuration of Xbee modules with use of XCTU software and starter kit boards.
Conclusion • The project is well underway and progress has been made since the end of the first semester. • The group will continue to order the required parts to continue working.
