RevolvoResoluto is a ten foot diameter geodesic sphere. The structure is based on the Carbon60 molecule named for Buckminster Fuller, a "fullerene" commonly known as a "buckyball". Comprised of 60 "vertex" pieces and 90 "edge" pieces , the structure will be self contained, self powered, able to roll around and be played with. The primary appeal will be microcontrolled LED modules imbedded in each vertex node. These modules will incorporate a capacitive touch sensor chip allowing the nodes to respond to human touch. Various patterns and puzzle sequences demand multiple simultaneous touch inputs thus requiring people to cooperate to solve the riddle.
Each vertex will lit by 5 5mm RGB LED units pwm modulated for 24bit color. These units are connected to neighboring vertex with a twisted pair serial line allowing them to communicate. Self generating patterns of colour will course around RevolvoResoluto when not being touched. These patterns will change and react to touch as well as the orientation of the unit. An integrated accelerometer unit will allow the unit to know which side is up and adjust the patterns accordingly. Additionally, the ball will react to motion and speed as it is rolled or pushed. Some sequences will require the unit to be moved to solve.
We envision RevolvoResoluto to be set loose at sunset and retrieved in the morning for recharging. A single 100watt solar panel will provide the charging power supplied to the vertex by a wire harness. The panel will be suspended by temporary wire cables in the center of the structure, requiring that RR be secured with tiedowns to prevent rolling while charging. A short range radio link has been added to the protoype, allowing the unit to send telemetry of battery status and real time interaction.