Engineer Taylor Veltrop has created a system for controlling a robot by mapping Microsoft Kinect motion controller output onto a skeletal frame with some fantastic results.
Veltrop has created a wire model of the robot to help him control and calibrate the movements of the robot in conjunction with the movements from the Kinect. The robot used is called the Veltrobot, and is gyro-stabilized and has a significant amount of limb freedom. Check out the video to see the Kinect controlling the robot’s movements after the jump.
Technical Specifications and Functionality
Veltrobot is based on a Kondo KHR-1HV and is controlled by a Microsoft Kinect as master/slave. The software uses ROS (Robot Operating System) to run the robot and the NITE package for the Kinect. This combination allows for precise and real-time control of the robot’s movements, making it an impressive feat of engineering. The Kinect sensor captures the user’s movements and translates them into corresponding actions by the Veltrobot, enabling a seamless interaction between human and machine.
The Kondo KHR-1HV is a humanoid robot kit that offers a high degree of flexibility and customization. It features multiple degrees of freedom in its limbs, allowing for complex and fluid movements. The gyro-stabilization ensures that the robot maintains its balance, even when performing intricate tasks. This makes the Veltrobot not only a marvel of technology but also a practical tool for various applications, from entertainment to research and development.
Applications and Future Prospects
The potential applications for Veltrobot are vast and varied. In the field of entertainment, it could be used for interactive gaming experiences, where players control the robot using their own body movements. This could revolutionize the way we interact with virtual environments, making them more immersive and engaging. In research and development, Veltrobot could serve as a platform for testing new algorithms and control systems, providing valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of humanoid robots.
Moreover, the technology behind Veltrobot could be adapted for use in assistive devices for individuals with disabilities. By mapping the movements of a caregiver or therapist onto a robotic assistant, it would be possible to provide personalized and responsive support to those in need. This could greatly enhance the quality of life for many people, offering them greater independence and mobility.
More information on the project can be found at Veltrop’s website. The website provides detailed documentation on the development process, including the challenges faced and the solutions implemented. It also offers a platform for collaboration, inviting other engineers and enthusiasts to contribute to the ongoing improvement of the Veltrobot system.
Via DVICE
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