Annual Gathering Digital Signage System

Overview

At the check-in of the Mensa annual meeting, paper signs at table height were used to direct members to the correct queue. These signs were easily blocked by waiting members, regularly causing confusion and queue chaos. On personal initiative, this problem was solved within about five weeks with a custom-built system of six Raspberry Pi-based LED matrix displays that can be controlled wirelessly and in real time.

Responsibilities

Hardware and assembly

Design and sourcing of all components with a focus on cost, plus full assembly of six units including custom-built stands. Custom-designed 3D-printed parts connect the components cleanly and give the units a professional appearance despite being entirely self-built.

Software and control

Development of the firmware and a custom-built control interface for the wireless live control of all displays, through which content can be updated directly during the event and pushed to all units.

Deployment concept

Simple setup and teardown as well as the transportability of the six display units were the primary design goals, to ensure smooth deployment at recurring events.

Components used

Raspberry Pi Zero 2W, 32x64px LED matrix displays, wood, 3D printing.