Proceedings of 2025 ASEE-NE Section Conference

Unlock the Mystery: Puzzle Box
Haridas Kumarakuru, Marlon Floyd Jost, Umme Hani  Bootwala, Don Heiman
Abstract

This project develops an interactive puzzle box with an electronic locking mechanism to engage young learners in logical problem-solving. The box features a series of switches and LEDs, and the user must find the correct combination of flipped switches to activate all the LEDs and unlock the box. A custom logic circuit, using AND and NOT gates, encourages iterative problem-solving. Concealed within the box, this innovative circuit adds an unexpected level of challenge that is more than one may initially expect. The box is designed to provide a hands-on learning experience, employing a reward system designed to foster persistence and critical thinking. The project also explores the educational potential of the puzzle box as a tool for teaching foundational engineering logic to young children. 


Last modified: 2025-03-21
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