SmartPlayground

An interactive playground control system developed by the Tufts University Center for Engineering Education and Outreach (CEEO) FET Lab.

Overview

We combine the novel smart tools developed at the center and the physical playground equipment to create engaging, interactive play experiences. The system uses ESP-based controllers and wireless communication to enable remote control and monitoring of playground elements.

Features

• Web-based Control Interface: Browser-based application for managing playground equipment
• Plushie Modules: Interactive soft toys with embedded electronics
• Real-time Communication: Wireless connectivity between control hub and playground elements
• Modular Design: Extensible architecture for adding new playground components

Repository Structure

SmartPlayground/
├── App_Hub/                    # Central hub application
├── App_Web/                    # Web-based control interface
├── Plushie_Module/            # Interactive plushie toy modules
└── old_stuff/                 # Archived legacy code

Getting Started

Prerequisites

• Playground modules (Buttons, Plushies, etc.) and a controller module developed at the center.
• A computer with Chrome browser installed to run the web app.

Preparing the Playground Modules (one-time setup)

• Download the codes from Plushie_Module onto the your computer
• Upload the following folders onto the Playground Modules
  1. games
  2. utilities
• Upload the following files onto the Playground Modules
  1. config.py
  2. main.py
• Modify the contents of config.py based on the type/name of your hardware

Using the App

• Connect the controller module to your computer using a USB-C cable
• Open the following link on Chrome browser https://tuftsceeo.github.io/SmartPlayground/
• If you are setting up the controller module for the first time, click Set up as a New Hub. Otherwise, click Connect to an Existing Hub. Select your device from the list.
• If you are setting up for the first time, click Start Upload and finish the setup process.
• Once you are all set, click on the message box to select the game you want to send to the playground modules. (Don't forget to hit send)

Project Status

Active development. Check the Issues tab for known bugs and planned features.

Contact

For questions or collaboration inquiries, please contact the Tufts CEEO team.

Acknowledgments

Developed by the Future Education Technology (FET) Lab at Tufts University Center for Engineering Education and Outreach.