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Ben Heck’s Auto Tracking Camera Part 2 Episode -- Episode 174

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element14's The Ben Heck Show

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Max helps film this week's episode as Ben completes the auto tracking camera that will follow an object on his work surface. Watch how it works here.

 

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  • Hello!

     

    I am a senior in Biomedical Engineering in Boston and my project consists in building a camera system for an OR. Your project here would greatly improve our system, I was just wondering what are the electronic components you used for your circuit?

     

    Thank you!

  • in reply to clem57

    My vacuum cleaner may disagree with you there Clem... image

  • How about a follow cam variation of this which can track Ben in the workshop. However the design needs to keep in mind that Karen or Felix are sometimes with Ben so the camera needs to be able to zoom in and out to allow for this.

     

    Optional add-ons might be follow spots which keep Ben well illuminated whilst in frame.

     

    There is a real world application for this in the likes of teaching where often the trainer needs to be filmed as they move around the room between flipchart, whiteboard and desk/lectern. However existing camera tracking systems can be expensive and often rely upon ultrasonic or IR beacons to be worn.

     

    Although wearing a neon green tie or shirt might work with the likes of the Pixy camera, it may not be the best of approaches here. The Panasonic Grid-EYE IR sensor might work though as it can identify multiple people, position, and direction of movement.

  • in reply to clem57

    The droop should help keep the dust off the lens when not in use image

  • Interesting show and concept.

     

    To keep the camera from drooping, you need a bigger cradle that can extend up the sides of the camera, and place the pivot point through the center of gravity of the camera. (Actually, through the center of gravity of the camera and the moving cradle part.)

     

    And while the big red switch taped to the side of the bench has a certain amount of appeal, what would make it much slicker is to hollow out the target object, place a battery and a very simple wireless transmitter in it, and a momentary button on the top. As long as the button is held, the transmitter is on, and the camera tracks the movement. Once aimed, let go of the button and move the target out of the way. The button should probably be recessed slightly so it doesn't get pressed accidentally by setting something on top of it, and therefore run down the battery.

  • in reply to patgau215

    Yeah! Cut power and the camera droops. Turn on power and the camera pops up. image

  • For the Y axis try a servo, maybe geared. You can set the program to keep the servo powered to prevent the camera from moving. Now you just got to work out how to auto zoom the camera to different areas. Could also make a ceiling system that follows you around or goes between different spot in the shop. Just be worry if it takes you there is cake.

     

    Thanks Ben

    Pat