USB Biofeedback Game Controller

Step 1: Materials

Basics 1 x Arduino Uno R2 (needs the atmega8u2 USB chip which is only available on newer Arduino MCUs) 1 x Arduino Project Enclosure 1 x USB cable for...

Step 2: Constructing the plastic insert

First we will need to create a insert to attach the Power Supply board and three of the Muscle Sensors. This insert will fit inside the project enclos...

Step 3: Preparing the bottom of the project enclosure

Next we'll prepare the Arduino project enclosure.  First, trim down the two middle supports on the bottom of the enclosure. Leave enough height so th...

Step 4: Preparing the top of the project enclosure

Next, you'll need to modify the top portion of the enclosure as well. Using a Dremel tool or some other cutting tool, completely cut off the reinforce...

Step 5: Soldering the power supply connectors

We now need to create a way to connect the Power Supply board to each of the sensors. Grab your power supply board, the four sets of wire lengths, and...

Step 6: Mounting the muscle sensors and power supply board

Now it is time to mount your sensors using the 4-40 screws and nuts. Grab three of your sensors and the power supply board and put a screw into each ...

Step 7: Connecting the power supply to the muscle sensors

By this time, your muscle sensors and power supply should be mounted and your Arduino should be in the project enclosure. Now you should be ready to s...

Step 8: Decide which muscles are going to control which button(s)

Now, you're going to have to decide which muscles/muscle combos you want to use for your button(s) layout. We've opted to go with the following layout...

Step 9: Attaching the electrodes to your muscles

Next, you'll need to attach the electrodes to your muscles. The image above illustrates where to place the electrodes for our button layout. You can u...

Step 10: Connecting the electrodes to the muscle sensor(s)

Now, we'll attach the electrodes to each muscle sensor using the EMG cables. Sensor 1 Dark green- M.Mid Pin Light green - M.End Pin Sensor 2 Dark pi...

Step 11: Connecting the muscle sensor(s) to the Arduino

Now we're getting close. By this step, your muscle electrodes and power supply should be hooked up to your muscle sensors. We just have to connect the...

Step 12: Upload visualization sketch to your Arduino

By this point, your USB Biofeedback Game Controller should be completely assembled and hooked up. Before we go any further, we'll need to test out you...

Step 13: Upload keyboard sketch to your Arduino

Now, we'll work on turning your Arduino UNO into a HID keyboard. First, Download the zipped Arduino project from our Google Docs page. Then unzip, c...

Step 14: Hack your Ardunio to load new atmega8u2 firmware

To play video games on your computer with the Arduino, we're going to turn your Arduino into a HID USB keyboard to interface with your computer; to do...

Step 15: Playing Super Mario Bros 3