Secret Compartment Chess Set

I play chess pretty poorly and have always wanted to get better, but I don’t even own a chess set. I decided I wanted to make my own set, but with a twist. I have made a chess board with a secret drawer that is locked unless the pieces are arranged on the board in a specific pattern.
Secret Compartment Chess Set
The way it works is there are magnetic switches underneath the chosen squares on the chess set and magnets glued to the bottom of every chess piece. When the chess pieces with the magnets are placed on the squares with the magnetic switches, the switches open. The arduino is programmed to move a servo with a lever attached inside of the box when the switches are open. When this lever is lifted, the spring-loaded drawer is no longer held in place and pops out.

To lock the drawer again, press the pushbutton on the side while holding the drawer in. A buzzer will go off whenever the servo lever is being opened or closed.

Step 1: What you need

[box color=”#985D00″ bg=”#FFF8CB” font=”verdana” fontsize=”14 ” radius=”20 ” border=”#985D12″ float=”right” head=”Major Components in Project” headbg=”#FFEB70″ headcolor=”#985D00″]

(x1) Arduino uno (RadioShack #276-128)
(x1) Standard Servo (RadioShack #273-766)
(x6) Switch-Magnetic Reed Flange (RadioShack #55050593)
(x1) Universal 1000mA AC Adapter (RadioShack #273-316)
(x1) M-type Adaptaplug (RadioShack #273-344)
(x1) Grid-Style PC board (RadioShack #276-149)
(x1) SPST Normally Open Pushbutton (RadioShack #275-644)
(x1) 75dB Piezo Electric Buzzer (RadioShack #273-793)
(x32) Round Ceramic Magnet (RadioShack #64-1883)
(x7) 10kOhm Resistor (RadioShack #271-1335)
(x3) Male header pins
(x2) 36″x24″x1/4″ plywood
(x1) 1.5″x1.5″x1/8″ plywood
(x1) 2″x2″x1/2″ plywood
(x1) Chess Piece Set[/box]

Step 2: Cut wood

Use a laser cutter to cut the outer box pattern on the 1/4″ plywood.

Use a laser cutter to cut the drawer pattern on the other sheet of 1/4″ plywood.

Step 3: Glue outer box

Glue outer box

Glue together the pieces of the outer box.

Step 4: Glue drawer

Glue together the pieces of the drawer.

Save the 1/2″ squares cut from the same sheet. You will later use these to mount the servo.

 

For more detail: Secret Compartment Chess Set


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top