On Oct. 17, the 鶹Ʒ Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology (ECET) capstone team in Indianapolis attended the Pinball Expo in Schaumburg, Illinois with professor of engineering technology Robert Weissbach. The event provided an exceptional hands-on learning opportunity that complemented the team's collaborative capstone project with students from Westphalian University of Applied Science in Bocholt, Germany.
During the expo, the students immersed themselves in a diverse array of pinball machines, from classic electromechanical models to modern digital systems. The experience deepened their understanding of how electrical, mechanical and software components work together in complex consumer products.
A particular highlight was a museum-style exhibit that deconstructed pinball machines, allowing the team to study core components like bumpers, solenoids and drop targets in isolation. This up-close examination clarified the precise interactions between motion, wiring and sensors, which directly relate to the students' own design for scoring and control systems. Throughout the day, the team spoke with industry professionals who shared invaluable advice on system design, testing protocols and ensuring reliability in a commercial product.
The visit concluded with a presentation by a professional pinball machine designer, who discussed the critical importance of synchronization between sensors and control systems for creating a seamless player experience.
The expo was both educational and inspiring for the students, giving them a clearer picture of what a professional-grade machine should look like and how they can apply those lessons in their own capstone design.
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