Mall Map

The Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) "Mall Map" is a completely original and entertaining kiosk developed by many of our members.

We use it to inform both members and visitors about the equipment we offer at PPM.

Additionally, it is movable and can be temporarily used at various events like Maker Faires.

PPM MEMBER USE

Both members and visitors are welcome to check it out while at PPM.

(735 East Pikes Peak Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado)

 

Behind the Scenes

• Our Mall Map requires power for the large display and Raspberry Pi.

• It uses an optional Internet connection for software updates.

• It is a bit tall and heavy. (But moving it does not require a forklift, at least.)

• The first map, which was originally built in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign, detected mouse clicks and then launched pages from our wiki: https://wiki.pikespeakmakerspace.org

• Our current map, a more stylized version of our 'space, accepts button and joystick input from a wired Xbox game controller and then loads data from a JSON file on the Raspberry Pi.
• An Arduino controls the lights of the color-coordinated upper display. This laser-engraved panel reinforces the color of the selected tool area! (See our "After" pic in the Picture Gallery, below.)

• Our code is under version control on GitHub: https://github.com/PikesPeakMakerspace/welcome-display

Original Contributors

Sixteen PPM members contributed

Ben S, Chris M, Chris S, Drew J, Greg B, Joey C, John N, Les F, Lisa M, Marvin H, Mathew P, Nate R, Pavan D, Ross H, Trevor B, and Warren J made our Mall Map successful.

Ongoing Tasks

Volunteers are needed

• Help keep the content current.

• Continually test that the system is understood and useful to users.

• Encourage potential members to check it out during tours of PPM(!)

Picture Gallery

• 
  Mall Map (PPM Kiosk)
  "After"
• 
  Mall Map (PPM Kiosk)
  with QR Code engraved sign
• 
  Mall Map (PPM Kiosk)
  with prototype poster
• 
  Mall Map (PPM Kiosk)
  with old map
• 
  Mall Map In Progress
  "Before"
• 
  Mall Map
  frame only
• 
  Mall Map In Progress
• 
  Mall Map
  original map only

Links to related PPM Wiki pages

  Classroom / Meeting Area   - make a reservation

  Raspberry Pi  

  Arduino  

JSON File Format Tips

Visual Studio Code Tips

GitHub Tips

QR Codes

Use the PPM Slack channel #computing

Note that we have a Slack channel (#job-board) for members to post, discuss, or accept job opportunities either within PPM or from the community.

Search the PPM Wiki — include Content pages as well as Multimedia.

Contact Us if you cannot find your answer here on our Wiki or if you notice any information that is outdated.