Multitouch Surface Computer Build

Modifying a ps3 eye camera

2010-10-23T06:49:00.001-07:00

We modified the PS3 eye camera to see infra red light. We have used the filter from a floppy disk but will try exposed film instead has we are not getting any blobs from the CCV software.

The SWAT

2010-09-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

The SWAT(Students Working to Advance Technology) Club has been launched on Tuesday 28th September at Stanmmore College.

Day 6: Initial Community Vision Software check

2010-03-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

I have not added a blog post in a while as I awaiting some parts. Adjusted the projector again using a hard plastic strip donated by Sharad's dad. It works well but I will still need to adjust the projector later. Community Vision also installed and checked. I am still awaiting the IR illuminators from China to complete the final hardware work on the project and begin software testing.

Day 5: Adjusting projector and attaching screen

2010-03-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

I am now using Diffused Illumination (DI) as opposed to Frustrated Total Internal Reflection (FTIR) as with DI you can track objects according to the NUI website. I had to also do some adjustments to the design so I could get a better screen display by relocating the CD RW Drive. It is still not perfect but ok for now. Decided to try and use a cupboard door from Ikea for the screen display. Using this has lost me 2cm of the display but I am still statisfied. The door I choose also has a thin pale grey layer which is being used as the projector surface. Later I might also try to use 2 mirrors for reflecting the image. I still need the IR illuminators. The projector works well so thanks to our Media Department. However it may work better for the larger Multitouch table we will build later. For this DI build I may need to replace the projector with one that has a higher resolution later.

Work Day 4: Setting up power switch, DVD drive and connectors ports

2010-03-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Had to do a bit of drilling to setup the power switch, DVD drive and connectors ports. Just need a fascia to tidy it up later. The setup has the ports connector, followed by the DVD drive and finally a 3.5 inch bay cooling kit with 2 fans. Also tested the projector. Now experimenting with creating Infra Red strips...

Work Day 3(Part 2): Setting up PC in frame

2010-03-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

I have installed all the PC components in the frame. I had to make some custom motherboard spacers with some plastic bits I found but they seem to do the job. The PC is up and running and all work seems to be on track.

Work Day 3(Part 1): Replacement Projector and Setting up Windows 7

2010-03-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

I have enlisted the help of some students (Sharad and Jake) who did an excellent job to install Windows 7 on an old pc we have, (P4, 2.4 GHz and 80GB HDD). They also tried to troubleshoot the faulty NEC projector but no luck with that so we got an old infocus projector that works.

Work Day 2: Wheels and Projector

2010-03-15T14:24:00.001-07:00

I added some wheels to the unit today so it could move more freely. I also acquired an NEC VT440k projector today which does not power on. The manual I downloaded says I may need the remote so I will get that tomorrow and see if I can get it up and running.

Work Day 1: Building the frame

2010-03-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Project: Multitouch mini
Project inspired by Metzatop build by Meirion Williams, City University.
Visit- http://mezatop.com

Just started to gather some of the stuff I need. Starting with the main base. I acquired a Uben kitchen unit I saw at Ikea. I hope I will be able to use this but it all depends on the projector I am trying to acquire on ebay.

Parts List for main remaining items: Sony Playstation eye camera, IR bandpass filter, IR laser diodes, Computer with Windows 7, Projector, First-surace mirror, IR blocking hot-mirror filter, ATX power supply, Arylic sheet.