I.  Abstract

The proposed project, "Rook, Ma, No Hands!", introduces a smart chess board with an automated piece movement system, piece sensing subsystem, and the ability to play games against an AI opponent. This project aims to elevate the game of chess by automating the movement of pieces made by an AI opponent, bringing convenience and excitement to players, while allowing players to continue playing on a traditional board surface. The smart chess board incorporates two ESP32 microcontrollers: one controls the flow of game logic, manages communications with our external chess engine, and calculates piece movements, while the second controls the sensing subsystem in charge of determining piece positions when a piece is moved by the player. It features a user-friendly interface with minimal push buttons, making it accessible to players of all skill levels, as well as a traditional chess clock system.

The sensing subsystem utilizes Hall effect sensors and magnets embedded in each piece to detect their positions on the board, and sends move data to the main processor over a UART bus. The motion (gantry) system employs stepper motors, linear bearings, pulleys, and belts for smooth and precise movement of the pieces. The design ensures safety and reliability, preventing mechanical errors or collisions during gameplay.

The decision to pursue the development of Rook, Ma, No Hands! stemmed from the desire to enhance the overall chess playing experience of playing an AI opponent in real time and in person. By automating piece movement, players can focus more on strategy and gameplay. Furthermore, in future integration, it becomes easily possible to write additional firmware which allows for the extension of the automation feature, where two players with boards across the world would be able to play with each other. The project also provides a valuable learning experience in integrating technologies such as sensors, motion systems, and controllers. Ultimately, the smart chess board has the potential to revolutionize chess gameplay and introduce innovation to the game.

II.  Introduction

Welcome to the world of "Rook, Ma, No Hands" - the smart chess board that redefines the way we play chess. This innovative project combines automation and advanced sensing technology to create a chess board that moves the pieces for you, revolutionizing the traditional chess-playing experience.

Our motivation behind developing the smart chess board was to introduce convenience, excitement, and accessibility to chess enthusiasts of all levels. By incorporating an automated piece movement system and a sophisticated sensing subsystem, players can now enjoy the game without the hassle of physically moving the pieces. With just a touch of a button, the board effortlessly detects and moves the pieces, leaving players free to focus on strategy and immersion in the game.

At the core of this intelligent system lies the ESP32, acting as the brain that orchestrates the coordination between the motion and sensing subsystems. This allows for accurate positioning and seamless movement of the chess pieces across the board. The user-friendly interface, equipped with intuitive pushbuttons and informative LED indicators, ensures that players of all skill levels can easily engage with the smart chess board.

Not only does "Rook, Ma, No Hands" prioritize convenience, but it also embraces cutting-edge features that enhance the overall playing experience. Through the utilization of Hall effect sensors and magnets embedded within each piece, the sensing subsystem ensures precise detection of piece positions on the board at all times. The motion system, driven by stepper motors, linear bearings, pulleys, and belts, enables smooth and accurate piece movement. Safety mechanisms have been incorporated to prevent mechanical errors or collisions, guaranteeing a secure and reliable gameplay environment.

Our decision to embark on the development of this smart...