Imaginative ways to use Microsoft’s Kinect keep appearing daily, and another worth mentioning today is this hack that uses either an iPad or Kinect to take control of a remote control car.
The project has been set up to show how hand gestures can be used to control R/C vehicles. One version uses a Kinect, and the other employs an HTML5 web application, utilizing WebSockets, DeviceMotionEvent, and Canvas. Watch a video of the hack after the jump to see the iPad and Kinect hacks in action.
HTML5-Based Control System
In the HTML5-based version, the web application uses DeviceMotionEvent to get accelerometer readings and calculates the instructions for what the R/C car needs to accomplish. This action is encoded in the format expected by the Arduino sketch and is then sent over a WebSocket to a simple server written in Python. The Python script simply forwards the received data to the Arduino via the serial port. The Arduino toggles its output to close and open switches to control the R/C car.
The use of HTML5 and WebSockets in this project is particularly innovative. HTML5 provides the necessary tools to capture motion data from the iPad’s accelerometer, while WebSockets enable real-time communication between the web application and the server. This combination allows for a seamless and responsive control experience, making it possible to steer the R/C car with precision.
Moreover, the integration of Python as the intermediary server script showcases the flexibility and power of Python in handling real-time data transmission. Python’s simplicity and extensive libraries make it an ideal choice for such projects, allowing developers to focus on the core functionality without getting bogged down by complex coding requirements.
Kinect-Based Control System
On the other hand, the Kinect-based version leverages the advanced motion-sensing capabilities of the Kinect sensor. By capturing hand gestures and body movements, the Kinect can translate these inputs into commands for the R/C car. This method provides a more immersive and intuitive control experience, as users can simply wave their hands or move their bodies to steer the car.
The Kinect sensor’s ability to track multiple points of movement simultaneously allows for more complex control schemes. For example, users can implement gestures for acceleration, braking, and turning, providing a richer and more engaging interaction with the R/C car. This approach also opens up possibilities for further enhancements, such as incorporating voice commands or facial recognition for even more sophisticated control mechanisms.
For more information on the project, visit the creator Gaurav Manek website.
The combination of iPad and Kinect technologies to control an R/C car demonstrates the potential of integrating different platforms and sensors to create innovative and interactive experiences. Whether using the HTML5-based web application or the Kinect sensor, these hacks showcase the versatility and creativity that can be achieved with modern technology. As developers continue to explore and experiment with these tools, we can expect to see even more exciting and imaginative applications in the future.
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