Card Shuffler

Description: This project involves the design and development of an advanced card shuffler. The device is intended to (pseudo) randomly select a number between 1 and 6, corresponding to one of six plastic trays capable of holding standard playing cards. The machine propels a card from the main stack into the randomly chosen tray. Once all cards have been distributed, they are gathered together, resulting in a shuffled deck ready for use.

Development Stage: Currently in the prototype phase, the card shuffler utilizes off-the-shelf motors, linear rails, and driving belts. Custom components have been 3D printed and designed using CAD software. The electronics schematic is custom-made and implemented on a hand-soldered perf-board. The device is controlled by a Teensy Microcontroller, selected for its compact size and high performance, featuring ample IO for managing the device's various components including three stepper motors, one DC motor, three end-limit switches, an RGB rotary encoder with a push button, and a small display.

• 3D Printed Components: Many parts, including helical spiral gears, are 3D FDM printed. This allows for precise adjustments and optimal gearing, ensuring the machine reliably dispenses one card at a time.
• Potential Features: The capability to read each card individually suggests the possibility of a 'cheating mode,' although this functionality requires further development involving a camera and additional processing power.
• Next Steps: Future improvements include transitioning to a PCB design for the electronics, finalizing the enclosure, and refining the mechanical setup to guarantee single-card dispensing. Additionally, efforts will focus on optimizing speed and reducing operational noise, with the current prototype shuffling a deck in approximately 50 seconds.

Future Considerations: As this project originated as a hobby, market research for potential mass production and commercialization has not been conducted. While we may explore this possibility in the future, the immediate goal is to complete the next prototype and enhance its functionality for personal enjoyment.