My Robotics Experience
My interest in robotics developed naturally alongside my work with coding. As I took on more projects, I often needed to build smart systems and physical machines in order for my code to have a real, tangible impact. This pushed me beyond the screen and into the world of hardware and electronics.
Through hands-on experimentation and project-based learning, I became comfortable working with robotic components, wiring circuits, and soldering electrical parts to bring systems to life. Robotics has since become an important extension of my coding practice, allowing me to combine software and hardware to create interactive, functional experiences
Another Arduino-focused project I worked on is Beach Bar, an interactive installation featuring a fully 3D-printed, Arduino-driven robotic arm. This project was created as part of an assignment centered on designing an embodied experience, where physical interaction played a central role.
For this concept, I decided to design a game specifically for bartenders, transforming a familiar work task into a playful challenge. The robotic arm controls a beer tap and moves it to random positions, requiring the bartender to react quickly and precisely. The objective is to pour as much beer as possible into the cup, while any spilled beer negatively impacts the player’s score.
At the end of the workday, all scores are tallied and a winner is determined, turning routine work into a competitive and engaging experience. By introducing game mechanics into the bartending process, Beach Bar explores how robotics and interaction design can be used to gamify everyday labor and enhance engagement.
Arduino
Barmate is an innovative project developed as part of a school assignment requiring the creation of a smart system. This system integrates multiple technical devices capable of seamless communication and data sharing. Our team chose to develop a proof of concept centered around enhancing safety for women in bar environments.
The system begins with facial recognition technology at the entrance, registering each visitor to maintain real-time tracking of who is inside the bar. Every visitor is given a specially designed cup equipped with a light and a sensor, programmed to detect if a drink has been tampered with or spiked.
If the sensor detects a drug in the drink, the cup’s light immediately turns red and the cup automatically seals itself. Concurrently, the bar’s cameras rotate toward the incident location to increase the likelihood of capturing evidence. Simultaneously, security personnel and the bartender receive instant notifications, allowing them to respond promptly and ensure the visitor's safety.
Barmate fosters a safer atmosphere, enabling women to enjoy their time without constant worry about their drinks, thereby creating an environment where they can relax and dance with peace of mind.
During this project, I developed several technical skills that enhanced my understanding of embedded systems and programming. I programmed a proof of concept using Arduino, creating a smart cup capable of sensing temperature changes. The Arduino was configured to send a notification to a phone upon detecting a temperature variation. Additionally, I integrated a camera system to recognize the cup’s position and programmed it to rotate automatically to face the cup. This project provided me with foundational knowledge in C++, as the Arduino IDE utilizes this language, sharpening my skills in sensor integration, microcontroller programming, and basic computer vision coordination.
