Project Update and To-Do List

Well, it's getting to be crunch time. After a week of playing with electronics, I think I have a much better grasp on how to utilize them in my project. After a few attempts, I think I have chosen a good set-up for my interactive dance project. I am using the LilyPad Arduino Main Board with a LilyPad LiPower and Polymer Lithium Ion Batteries - 2000mAh as a power source. Also, I invested in a Bluetooth® Modem - BlueSMiRF Gold so that the set-up is wireless and can be worn easily by the dancers. Finally, I chose the Ultrasonic Range Finder - Maxbotix LV-EZ3 as my proximity sensor. Supposedly, the sensor provides very accurate readings of 0 to 255 inches (0 to 6.45m) in 1 inch increments with little or no dead zone. However, I am a little worried that the detection range in terms of width won't be great enough with this sensor. Apparently, Maxbotix is offering the EZ0, EZ1, EZ2, EZ3, and EZ4 with progressively narrower beam angles allowing the sensor to match the application. So, the sensor with the widest range with the EZo sensor. I might have to switch to this one. In addition to this challenge, I still have to figure out how to translate its readings in the Max patch so that the video/audio output will be artistically relevant. I mostly concerned with coordinating the sensor reading with the Max program. What will be easier and more enjoyable will be the creation of the corresponding videos. I am creating them in Flash with images created in Photoshop and sounds created with Garage Band (not the most sophisticated option, but I am a novice sound engineer and this seems to work well for now.) Wish me luck!!


To-Do:

1) Complete Flash videos and convert to QuickTime for Max output
2) Sew electronics onto a shirt with conductive thread (and puffy paint for insulation!)
3) Hook up electronics to my computer with BlueTooth and pray that my Max patch works