Feasibility --- not sure if Arduino can do this

Using Arduino Project Guidance
1

First thanks for taking your time to help

I have 8 sensors, Break beam 5V (although I could change them to IR)
one box with flag in it
and no clue how to do what I am trying to do.

Here is what I am trying to accomplish

Tripping any one of the sensors starts an MP3 file that calls out a number 1-8 then you have to trigger that sensor in a predefined time limit 2 secs. Let's say it calls out #3

If they do trip #3 within 2 secs, a second MP3 file is to play calling out another number 1-8 and repeat this same sequence 10 times. using all 8 numbers and some 2 or 3 times. If triggering multiple mp3 files is too difficult it can just continue to play the original file until a mistake is made.

If at any time they do not trip the correct sensor in time or go out of order (ie #6 is called out and they trip #5) another MP3 file plays and says they failed, then with a delay, starts over from the beginning. If they are too slow a MP3 file saying this and restarts to the beginning.

If all 10 sensors are tripped in the correct order and in the allotted time it would send a signal to a relay to allow a congratulations flag to pop out of the box.

I was thinking of using a Mega with a MP3 Shield.... am I on the right track?

Thanks

2

Since you are just beginning with all of this, simplify your design to get it working. Instead of breaking light beams, test it out with push buttons. Instead of playing MP3 files, output text to the serial monitor. That way you can work out the logic of your project without needing to deal with the hardware.

If you have a Mega, it will work, but unless you need to connect more than 20 things to it, a UNO should be fine.

3

Thanks Chris.

Yes new to this, but already playing with it. I have lots of time on my hands so I know between reading and experimenting I will get it working IF it was feasible.... and it sounds like it is.

Like website building, code is crucial..... understanding how to use it also a learning curve..

But sounds like a challenge I am up for...

Thanks for the advice and I will be listening to it.

4

ProfPlumb:
... I have lots of time on my hands so I know between reading and experimenting I will get it working IF it was feasible.... and it sounds like it is.

Like website building, code is crucial..... understanding how to use it also a learning curve..

But sounds like a challenge I am up for...

Thanks for the advice and I will be listening to it.

Cool Prof!

One thing I have learned is that everything is ultimately feasible*. It may just be more complex/expensive than you first thought.

In general, Arduino projects can be neither and still be cool.

  • I love this word. It's an acronym: fuin' easily doable**