The Coin-Operated Pleasure Backpack
The Backpack was our follow-up to the taco machine. The prototype attended Camp Crucible in 2019, but the enclosure we used for the electronics was small and difficult to work with.We rebuilt the machine using a Harbor Freight Pelican-case knock-off with more space and a swing-open, latching cover.
In response to putting in coins, the Backpack allows selection of a song that is then "played" on the vibes. There are 4 vibe connections (two high, two low) and 2 channels (left, right) which execute different vibration patterns.
The software has also undergone revisions over the years. Early versions would accept multiple coins, extending songs by slowing the tempo. In later versions this was disabled, as some fans would end up "hogging the machine" by queuing up extended durations.
Consent shut-off was done via an over-the-shoulder string connected to a pull-chain switch. A second E-stop was provided on the backpack case.
| Year | 2019, rebuilt for 2020 |
|---|---|
| Platform | RaspberryPi |
| Additional kit | Coin acceptor AdaFruit stepper/motor controller board 2×AdaFruit 16×2 LCD with adjustable backlight |
| Sensors used | Joystick |
| Connectors | We used aircraft connectors, as they were secure and mounted well on the case. We subsequently made adapter cables providing industry-standard 2.5mm phone receptacles. The Backpack also featured an Ethernet jack. |
Pictures
