Day 3

Today, we focused on both the hardware integration and software debugging aspects of the project. We began by individually testing each of the four EMG sensors with the ESP32 to verify signal acquisition, electrode placement, and proper analog readings from the GPIO pins. After confirming that each sensor worked independently, we proceeded to test all four EMG sensors simultaneously as part of the complete system integration process.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to debugging and refining the arcade game software. Several gameplay issues were identified and resolved, including fixing the scoreboard logic in the Snake game, where scores were previously not updating correctly during gameplay. We also resolved the collision-detection issue in the Pac-Man game that prevented Pac-Man from properly consuming coins/pellets and updating the score accordingly.

On the hardware side, we assembled and breadboarded the full EMG-ESP32 circuit, integrating all sensors into the system architecture. During testing, one of the EMG sensors was accidentally short-circuited and became unusable; however, it was quickly replaced with a spare sensor, allowing testing and development to continue without major delays.

At this stage, the majority of the core coding and system integration work has been completed. The EMG input acquisition pipeline is functioning, the arcade interface is operational, and most major software bugs have been addressed. Remaining work primarily involves optimization, calibration of sensor responsiveness, gameplay refinement, and final system testing for stability and reliability.