If you like the way Tony Stark creates his Ironman suit using virtual 3D models in his workshop, you’ll be thrilled to learn about a fascinating 3D modeling hack that brings this concept a little closer to reality. This innovative hack utilizes a Microsoft Kinect game controller to create a virtual 3D environment, making the dream of designing objects in mid-air more accessible.
Sebastian Pirch at 3rD-EYE, a media production company, has ingeniously combined a Kinect with a set of homemade Arduino-powered gloves to develop a 3D environment for object creation. Initially, his development prototypes relied on arm extensions to mimic mouse clicks for the system. However, this method proved to be too exhausting for the user, leading to the need for further refinement.
Innovative Solutions and Prototypes
Pirch’s journey to perfecting this 3D modeling system involved several iterations and creative problem-solving. The initial prototypes, while groundbreaking, highlighted the physical strain of using arm extensions for mouse clicks. Recognizing the need for a more user-friendly solution, Pirch turned to a pair of $3 gloves connected to an Arduino. This adjustment effectively resolved the mouse click issue, allowing for a more intuitive and less tiring user experience.
The gloves, equipped with sensors, enable users to interact with the 3D environment seamlessly. By leveraging Kinect’s depth perception capabilities, Pirch created a simple mesh modeler that allows for the creation and manipulation of 3D objects. This setup not only makes the process more efficient but also opens up new possibilities for virtual design and modeling.
Watch the video after the jump to see the system and how it was constructed.
Open Source Software and Community Collaboration
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is its reliance on open-source software. Pirch utilized several open-source tools to bring his vision to life, including PURE DATA, GEM, OpenNI, and UBUNTU. These tools provided the necessary framework for developing the 3D modeling environment and allowed for greater flexibility and customization.
PURE DATA, a visual programming language, was instrumental in handling the data flow and interactions within the system. GEM, an extension of PURE DATA, facilitated the graphical rendering of the 3D models. OpenNI, a middleware framework, enabled the integration of the Kinect’s depth-sensing capabilities, while UBUNTU provided a stable and versatile operating system for the project.
The use of open-source software not only made the project more accessible but also encouraged collaboration and innovation within the community. By sharing his work and findings, Pirch has inspired other developers and enthusiasts to explore similar projects, further advancing the field of virtual 3D modeling.
In conclusion, Sebastian Pirch’s innovative use of a Kinect and Arduino-powered gloves to create a 3D modeling environment is a remarkable achievement. By addressing the challenges of user fatigue and leveraging open-source software, Pirch has developed a system that brings us one step closer to the futuristic design tools seen in movies like Ironman. This project not only showcases the potential of combining existing technologies in new ways but also highlights the importance of community collaboration and open-source development in driving innovation forward.
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