Smoothie Power Challenge

Project Overview:

The Smoothie Power Challenge is a gamified cycling experience built in Unity and designed for wellness events. Participants pedal a stationary bike outfitted with Arduino-based sensors to power an on-screen avatar racing toward a finish line. Upon crossing the line, riders earn a smoothie gift, seamlessly blending physical activity with real-time game feedback

Methodology:

By integrating Arduino hall-effect sensors with Unity’s scripting API, we captured pedal cadence data, filtered and smoothed the readings, and translated them into avatar velocity in real time.

Game Development:

Developed entirely in Unity 3D (C#), the project features a serial communication module for Arduino input, a movement controller for the avatar, and an animation system to trigger the reward sequence.

Platform:

Optimized for Windows PCs connected to an Arduino Uno and stationary bicycle setup—ideal for turnkey event kiosks.

Game Components:

• Arduino Sensor Module: Detects wheel rotations via hall-effect sensors.

• Serial Data Handler: Unity script that reads, debounces, and normalizes RPM data.

• Avatar Controller: Maps normalized RPM to forward motion on a 3D track.

• Reward System: Launches smoothie-dispensing animation and on-screen celebration.

Mechanics:

Players pedal to accelerate their avatar. The direct mapping of pedaling speed to in-game velocity creates an intuitive, effort-driven racing mechanic.

User Interface Development:

A clean HUD displays real-time RPM, distance remaining, and a progress bar. Start and finish screens feature clear prompts and celebratory graphics.

Intuitive Design:

Minimal visual clutter keeps focus on pedaling. Bold, high-contrast gauges and progress indicators ensure immediate understanding for riders of all ages.

User-Friendly Upload Process:

Event staff can adjust pedaling thresholds, track length, and gift parameters via a simple JSON config file—no code changes required.

Dynamic Visuals:

Background environments pulse and shift color intensity based on pedal speed, creating a more engaging, energy-driven aesthetic.

Real-Time Feedback:

Instant updates to the speedometer and avatar movement reinforce the user’s physical input, maintaining high engagement without perceptible lag.

Testing and Validation:

Field-tested with dozens of participants to ensure reliable sensor readings, stable serial communication, and smooth avatar motion under continuous use.

Performance Optimization:

Leveraged Unity’s Job System and optimized asset bundling to maintain a steady 60 FPS, even during prolonged event operation.

Deliverables:

• Complete Unity project with Arduino integration

• Arduino firmware and wiring diagrams

• Windows build packages for rapid deployment

• Configuration guide for event customization

Unity-Based Application:

Structured with modular C# scripts and ScriptableObjects for easy extension and maintenance, running on Unity 2021 LTS.

Custom-Branded Frames:

Start/finish screens customized with event branding and sponsor logos to reinforce the wellness expo’s identity.

Conclusion:

The Smoothie Power Challenge successfully fused physical exertion with digital gaming, driving high participant engagement and leaving a lasting impression. It demonstrates how combining simple hardware sensors with interactive Unity experiences can deliver both fun and fitness at large-scale events.