Prototypes: Set up #4 - Full Size

The Art of Ping Pong Prototype #4 - Full Size from Jono Sandilands on Vimeo.

Using the same rough sketches as the last prototype (see here). The application uses colour tracking to track the red ball.

I set up a makeshift table using really thin sheets of board - they kinda absorbed the bounce making it really hard to play normally - will need to get a better surface even to test on - even an old ping pong table would be great - if anyone can help?

So hopefully in the video you can see how the projector and camera are placed at a high angle to the table - this test has confirmed that the projector and camera (especially) need to be directly above (or below if I can source a reasonably priced short throw projector - see table plan option 1 here).

Next:
A lot of work needed on the application
More tests of actual gameplay at full speed - I think the camera I currently use may not pick up high speed play.
Also work on plans for construction of the final table.

One step further...

Construction: Table option 2

So after a test with projector at a slight angle above - it confirms the tracking camera and projector would need to be directly above the table - if the inside table, original idea (see here) is not plausible. Would need a transportable rig to firmly hold the projector and camera and the idea would be to have two large tripod stands with a gantry frame/ rig over table.

Source website: http://www.cokerexpo.co.uk/lighting.htm

Prototypes: Set up #4 - Full Size

Quick screen grab from video clip of full size working set up. Video coming soon.

Construction: The Table

Rough Table model - produced in Google Sketch Up
Note: 1 clear side on top and 1 side panel absent to allow view inside table.

I had always planned to build a 'special' table for The Art of Ping Pong, but I have only recently begun to think about how it may look. It does need to be within a budget so have tried to come up with something which works to that.

I should think about how to transport this and also store it - can it come apart? Flatpack? Fold up?

Technology: Ideally everything would be housed inside the table - but have not tested out all potential routes yet. (ie short throw projector could be expensive + camera to track motion may have to be placed above table). The printer could be accommodated in a much cleverer way (perhaps much like a photobooth style when photo drops out).

Build: There would be a frame of rough sawn timber and boxed in bottom and sides with plywood and doors for access. The top would consist of perspex sheeting which allows for backlit projection. With standard table tennis equipment. I'd also plan to 'brand' the table with vinyl logo etc.

Brainwave: Just another thought for marketing - get printed ping pong balls with logo + web.

Learning: Daniel Shiffman

A bit more advanced & in depth than the YouTube tutorials I have been working through. Looks great!
http://www.learningprocessing.com/

Suppliers: Perspex

If I go with a backlit projection from within the table I will need to source perspex sheeting to allow light to "shine" through. For a uni project I used a company in Dundee called Stockline Plastics (website).
Have also found this site: http://www.theplasticshop.co.uk/

Arduino Starter Kit Arrived!

Now, find time to get stuck into some awesome geekery!

Hardware: Arduino

Over the past few weeks I have been reading up on some books, some posted in earlier post Book List. One which I read in one sitting was "Getting Started with Arduino", has made me very excited about stating to work with Arduino on this project.

I must say, all the books Ive been reading are targeted directly at designers/artists of projects just like this, so the books have given me a great understanding as they talk on the same level, I would thoroughly recommend them for any artists or designer thinking about interactivity in their work!

There is a long way to go yet but I now know that what I thought was impossible for me to do, will be totally possible, especially with the help of these books and advice/help from people who are interested in becoming involved. Another thing to explore is the online communities for the likes of Arduino, they will be a great resource for understanding and problem solving!

My next step with this project is to start prototyping using hardware and programming, I am just going through what best hardware to purchase, from the Arduino website there are a number of suppliers in the UK.

Arduino Website
Arduino Forums - to explore!

Suppliers UK:
Cool Components
SK Pang Electronics
oomlout
Robotiq
RobotBits

Got my eye on this one to begin with (Arduino Duemilano Starter Kit - E v2) from SK Pang.