Laser Tag Gun (1st attempt)

Our senior design project at the University of Central Florida involves designing a printed circuit board (PCB) for an innovative laser tag system. The goal of this system is to create a fun, interactive, and technology-driven experience for players, with real-time communication, scoring, and game mechanics controlled by our custom-designed electronics.

At the core of the system is an infrared (IR) laser emitter and receiver circuit, which enables players to "tag" each other during gameplay. Each laser tag gun will be equipped with a low-power IR laser diode that emits a beam when the trigger is pulled. The player's vest or helmet will contain IR receivers strategically placed to detect incoming beams from opponents. The PCB we are designing on EasyEDA will manage the signal processing for these receivers, ensuring accurate hit detection and real-time response.

The PCB will also integrate a microcontroller (MCU) that serves as the central processing unit. It will manage various functions such as scoring, player status, and game timing. Additionally, the MCU will handle communication between the player's equipment and a central game server via wireless modules (e.g., Bluetooth or RF transceivers). This will allow for real-time tracking of each player's performance and updates on game progress.

Power efficiency is a critical design aspect, so our PCB includes a power management unit to optimize battery usage, ensuring long play sessions without frequent recharging. The design also features low-power standby modes for components not actively in use.

Moreover, safety is paramount in our laser tag system. The PCB will incorporate safety mechanisms, such as limiting the laser’s output power to ensure compliance with safety standards. Our design provides robust performance, is scalable, and aims to deliver an engaging laser tag experience, bringing innovation to recreational gaming.