BRAIN GAME PROJECT
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UPDATED:.21:38 05 March 2020
An updated version of the common memory sequence game.

There are 2 other versions on this site:

This project is available in our shop now!

INTRODUCTION:

There are occasions where we have to wait or are restricted by what we can do by space, such as a bus or train journey. These times can be quite boring. Rather than disappear into a phone or tablet, why not try some brain food?

Most people enjoy a puzzle or challenge so this little handheld gadget is just the thing for helping to develop your memory and keep boredom at bay.

The rules are simple, a sequence has to be followed that gets progressively longer, starting with just one note/colour going up to 32.

The four buttons choose the colour during the game, and provide Start, Last, Best and Mute functions when not playing.

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION

The circuit is about a simple as it can be. R1 reduces the current to the LEDs but since there is only one resistor and 4 LEDs with different voltage drops across them, it means that pressing two buttons at once should be avoided. It won't cause any damage though.

The heart of the circuit is IC1 which is a PIC microcontroller. This has a program to run the gsame, monitor inoputs and control outputs to the LEDs.

TD1 provises the sound which can be muted by pressing SW4 when not playing the game.
CONSTRUCTION

To make the case compact and hand size, it is important to know the dimensions of the PCB. The layout and template is shown right.

You need to allow 5mm for the protrusion of the coin cell from one side of the PCB.

The LEDs need to be soldered 7-8mm from the PCB to match the correct height of the buttons.

To space the LEDs from the PCB, make a spacer from thick card to put underneath the LEDs. It can be removed after soldering.
To get the LED positions correct, put them in the drilled case with the spacer before soldering.

There is a step-by-step PCB assembly guide in the support material at the bottom of the page.
TURTLE BRAIN GAME

Chose an image of something you want the game to look like. Simple is better. The colours are not important but the shape needs to be able to house the circuit board inside, so round or square objects are best.

Find an image and size it to fit the PCB inside. Allow about 10-15 mm extra around the edge of the PCB for the case.
Divide the design into solid parts that can be glued together. Use the PCB template to make sure there is inside for the PCB.


Place the PCB template on the top part and mark out the holes for the buttons and LEDs

Print out the shapes, stick them onto the wood, cut them out and sand off the paper so they are clean.

Use 4 to 5mm plywood for the case. Glue together some scrap pieces to make thicker plywood for the sides, approx 16-18mm.

Drill the 5 and 10mm holes in the top and glue all the parts together.


Screw the back on - TADAAHH!
Place the PCB in the case. Manipulate the LEDs so the buttons move freely. Place some card behind the PCB to pack it out as needed.

SUPPORT MATERIAL
PROJECT GALLERY

HOW TO PLAY

Turn on the power switch SW5.
Press the Green button to start a game.

The game will play a note to start a sequence. Copy that note. The sequence will grow increasingly longer and you must copy it exactly each time.

If you press a wrong note in the sequence, the game will buzz, show you the correct note and the game is then over.

If you get the longest sequence, you will hear a reward sound and the LEDs will flash.
When not playing the game, the buttons act as functions.
Press:
YELLOW to repeat the last sequence.
BLUE to show the highest score/longest sequence
RED to toggle mute on and off
GREEN to start a game

The longest sequence will be stored even when the power is turned off.

The game will bleep once a minute to remind you to switch it off when not in use.

This project is available in our shop now!