Inspired by Superhero Engineering
I always dreamed of a high-tech workbench that could turn ideas into prototypes in minutes, just like in the movies with Tony Stark building his suits. This project brought that vision to life, facing challenges that tested our ingenuity but ultimately delivered an innovative tool for faster creation.
TL;DR
I started with a dream of a roll-up touchscreen workbench, inspired by Iron Man, to speed up prototyping and control machines.
Building the layers proved tricky, especially adhering vinyl without bubbles, but we overcame it to create a functional mat.
Integrating a Raspberry Pi and projector added smart features, leading to custom software for seamless design and automation.
Testing apps for 3D modeling and machine control revealed exciting possibilities, like voice-activated creation that felt truly futuristic.
The final setup connected everything, hinting at endless projects ahead and the thrill of engineering breakthroughs.
We began this project with a simple yet ambitious goal: to build a workbench that mimics the high-tech setups in movies, like Tony Stark's lab. I envisioned a device that could roll up for easy storage, feature a touchscreen interface, and control all our machines to turn ideas into reality almost instantly. Drawing inspiration from Avengers scenes, we named it the Hollow Map and outlined three key requirements: it had to roll up, be touchscreen-enabled, and integrate with our tools.
The first challenge was constructing the flexible touchscreen. We started with a base layer of rubber to protect the surface and prevent slipping. On top of that, we added a capacitive touch foil that connects via USB to detect touches, followed by a sheet of matte black vinyl for a smooth, projectable finish.
Assembling these layers was tougher than expected; adhering the vinyl without bubbles took multiple attempts, requiring a straight edge and working in sections. Once in place, we trimmed the excess with a razor, hoping the whole mat would roll up neatly as in the films.
After testing the mat by plugging it into a laptop and confirming it worked, we created a 3D-printed cover to hide the electronics for a clean look. It rolled up perfectly, marking a successful first phase. Next, we moved to the projection system, designing a custom bracket for ceiling mounting or a stand for home use.
For the brains of the operation, we used a Raspberry Pi 5, a compact computer with HDMI output, USB ports, and a powerful processor. We mounted it above the projector and loaded it with Raspberry Pi OS, then connected the Hollow Map via USB for full touchscreen control.
This setup allowed us to develop custom software in React and JavaScript, creating a futuristic HUD interface. The software features a circular app carousel where apps can be added dynamically, and it's designed for easy expansion with simple JSX files for new apps.
With the hardware complete, we focused on practical applications. For instance, I used the mat to design a life-size pickleball paddle by opening a 2D image, scaling it accurately, and tracing it directly on the surface. This enabled precise cutting with our laser cutter, ensuring the first try was spot-on.
We built apps for 2D and 3D design, including a drawing tool and a 3D viewer that lets you manipulate models before sending them to printers. For voice-activated creation, we integrated an AI model that converts speech to text, generates images, and turns them into 3D models, mimicking Tony Stark's style.
Connecting the mat to our machines, like the Xtool F1 Ultra laser cutter and Bamboo Labs 3D printers, was seamless. We could export designs directly, monitor prints in real time with live streams, and even check filament levels, making the process efficient and automated.
One highlight was using AI for material suggestions, where I asked about a gold titanium alloy for a suit design, and it provided detailed properties and applications based on the query.
This project wrapped up with a versatile tool that supports endless creativity, from rapid prototyping to complex engineering tasks.
Reflecting on this build, I've realized how combining hardware and software can turn ambitious ideas into practical realities, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in everyday engineering. It's not just about the final product; it's the lessons learned from challenges that make future projects even more exciting and efficient.
Key Takeaways
The Hollow Map project combined flexible hardware layers with touchscreen technology for a portable, high-tech workbench.
Overcoming assembly challenges led to successful integration with Raspberry Pi and custom software for enhanced functionality.
Apps for design and machine control demonstrated real-time automation, highlighting the potential for voice-activated and AI-assisted creation.
