Kick It Up a Notch: Automating Foosball Scoring with DIY Electronics

In the realm of indoor sports, foosball stands tall as a captivating game of skill and camaraderie. But what if you could elevate your foosball experience with a touch of automation and high-tech wizardry? Enter Joey Cumeras Khan, a foosball enthusiast who embarked on a remarkable journey during the COVID-19 lockdown, transforming his beloved foosball table into a marvel of modern technology.

Automating the Score: A Stroke of Brilliance

Driven by a passion for innovation and a desire to enhance his foosball matches, Joey embarked on a mission to automate the scoring system. Drawing inspiration from the world of electronics, he meticulously crafted an ingenious system that would revolutionize the way he and his friends kept score.

The Magic of Sensors: Illuminating the Goals

At the heart of Joey’s automated scoring system lies a network of sensors, strategically placed within each player’s scoring tray. These sensors, consisting of LED and LDR pairs, act as vigilant guardians, monitoring the flow of the game with unwavering precision. When a ball finds its way into the net, the sensor detects the sudden absence of light, triggering a signal to the iRobota Nano microcontroller, the brains behind the operation.

Communicating the Score: A Digital Dialogue

Upon receiving the signal from the sensors, the iRobota Nano microcontroller springs into action, initiating communication with the Orange Pi Zero, a compact yet powerful single-board computer. This communication channel serves as a digital bridge, relaying the goal information to the Orange Pi Zero, which then takes center stage in displaying the updated score.

The Scoreboard: A Visual Symphony of Numbers

The Orange Pi Zero orchestrates a visual spectacle on both players’ phones, displaying the current score in a captivating and dynamic manner. With each goal, the scoreboard bursts into life, showcasing the updated tally in a clear and easily readable format. The seamless integration of technology and aesthetics elevates the foosball experience, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement.

User-Friendly Interface: Simplicity at Your Fingertips

To utilize this automated scoring system, players simply need to scan a QR code conveniently located on the side of the table. This simple gesture launches the scoreboard, complete with custom sounds and a user-friendly reset interface. The intuitive design ensures that even the most technologically challenged players can effortlessly engage with the system, maximizing their enjoyment of the game.

A Glimpse into the Creation: A Visual Journey

For those eager to delve deeper into the intricacies of Joey’s automated scoring system, a captivating YouTube video titled “DIY electronic table football” awaits. This visual masterpiece provides a comprehensive guide to the system’s setup and functionality, offering viewers an immersive experience as they witness the magic unfold.

Bonus: The Art of Foosball Mastery

Beyond the automated scoring system, Joey’s journey into the world of foosball has yielded valuable insights into the art of mastering this captivating game. His advice to aspiring foosball enthusiasts is simple yet profound: “Practice, practice, practice!” With unwavering dedication and a keen eye for strategy, anyone can elevate their game to new heights.

In the words of the legendary foosball player, Freddy “Rapid” Fernandez, “Foosball is a game of skill, strategy, and passion. It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about the joy of the game and the camaraderie you share with your opponents.” Embrace the spirit of foosball, let your skills shine, and revel in the moments of triumph and laughter that this incredible sport has to offer.

So, gather your friends, unleash your competitive spirit, and let the automated scoring system keep track of your victories and defeats. As you immerse yourself in the world of foosball, remember that it’s not just about the goals you score; it’s about the memories you create and the bonds you forge along the way.


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