We have featured quite a few different Kinect hacks here at Geeky Gadgets, from the cool Kinect Air Guitar Hack to the awesome Minority Report Kinect hack, and now we have a tiny humanoid robot controlled by the Microsoft Kinect.
As you will see in the video below, all of the robot’s movements are controlled using the Microsoft Kinect, and this one was made by Asura Engineering from Japan.
Innovative Use of Kinect Technology
The Microsoft Kinect, originally designed as a motion-sensing input device for the Xbox 360, has found a myriad of applications beyond gaming. Its ability to track body movements in real-time has made it a favorite among hackers and engineers for various innovative projects. The Kinect’s depth-sensing camera and infrared projector allow it to create a 3D map of its surroundings, making it an ideal tool for controlling robots.
In this particular project, Asura Engineering utilized the Kinect to control a GR-001 robot. The GR-001 is a small humanoid robot that is typically operated via remote control. However, by integrating the Kinect, the team was able to map human movements directly to the robot, allowing for a more intuitive and interactive control method. This setup not only showcases the versatility of the Kinect but also opens up new possibilities for human-robot interaction.
Potential Applications and Future Developments
The ability to control robots using the Kinect has significant implications for various fields. For instance, in the realm of education, such technology can be used to create interactive learning experiences where students can control educational robots through simple body movements. This can make learning more engaging and accessible, especially for younger students.
In healthcare, Kinect-controlled robots could assist in physical therapy sessions. Patients recovering from injuries could perform exercises that are mirrored by a robot, providing real-time feedback and ensuring that movements are performed correctly. This could enhance the rehabilitation process and make it more efficient.
Moreover, the integration of Kinect technology in robotics can be beneficial for remote operations. For example, in hazardous environments where human presence is risky, robots controlled by Kinect can perform tasks while being operated from a safe distance. This can be particularly useful in fields such as disaster response, mining, and space exploration.
Asura Engineering’s project is a testament to the potential of combining Kinect technology with robotics. It demonstrates how off-the-shelf consumer electronics can be repurposed for advanced technological applications. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of the Kinect in various domains.
Asura Engineering have used a GR-001 robot which can normally be controlled via remote control, although we think controlling him by a Kinect is much more fun.
via Crunch Gear
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