Interactive quiz vending machine: custom project for a science and technology center

An interactive quiz vending machine custom-built for a science and technology center: students take a technology quiz on the touchscreen, and when they answer the required number of questions correctly, the machine automatically drops a prize. The machine is built around a Raspberry Pi, with an Arduino controlling the dispensing motors. The question bank and interface were customized to the theme of the school event, and the machine was exhibited on site at a science education expo.
How it works
- Before starting, players read the game rules and safety reminders, check the box to agree, and press “Start Game.”
- Each round has 10 questions with 4 answer choices each. Players tap an answer and press “Next Question.”
- When the required number of questions is answered correctly, the machine dispenses a prize from the corresponding lane based on the score, and the player collects it from the pickup slot.

Features
- Dual-controller design: The Raspberry Pi handles the touch interface and question bank, and the Arduino handles motor dispensing.
- 13.3-inch vertical touchscreen: 10-point capacitive touch and built-in speakers let children operate it intuitively.
- 10 dispensing lanes: Holds 10 different prizes, dispensed according to the number of correct answers.
- Teacher-replaceable question bank: Questions are stored in a settings file and can be swapped using a USB flash drive. Random question order can be enabled.
- Custom interface and question bank: The screen style, logo, and question themes can be designed to match a school or event.
- Extensible code: Both the Raspberry Pi and Arduino programs can be modified, and they can also serve as material for an advanced programming course.
Hardware
| Main controller | Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 |
|---|---|
| Dispensing control | Arduino Nano |
| Display | 13.3-inch IPS all-in-one touch display (vertical), 10-point capacitive touch, built-in speakers |
| Dispensing | 10-lane spring-coil dispensing, LED-lit pickup area |
| Software | Full-screen web-based quiz program; 10 questions per round, random order available |
Suitable settings
- Campus technology weeks, science fairs, and school carnivals
- Education expos, camps, and winter and summer break activities
- Libraries and interactive exhibit areas in science education centers
- Interactive marketing events for companies or organizations
Ordering information
This is a custom project, quoted according to requirements. The question bank, screens, number of prizes, and cabinet appearance can all be adjusted. Please use the form below or our official LINE account to tell us about your event, the quantity, and your preferred delivery date.