A Laser Range Finder using RaspberryPi, Arduino and OpenCV

Eduardo has been working on a project to build a Laser Range Finder using a Raspberry Pi, an Arduino, and OpenCV using a webcam. I hope that eventually this project may be used on a mobile robot using the algorithms taught on Udacity CS373 especially SLAM (Synchronous Location and Mapping).

The First Prototype

This prototype is more a proof of concept than a usable device. Anyway, it’s working pretty well except for it being quite slow.

  • Raspberry Pi Model B running:
    • Archlinux ARM with a modified kernel to support the Arduino and the Webcam
    • OpenCV 2.4.1
    • Python 2.7
    • The LRF software
  • Arduino UNO is connected via USB to the Raspberry Pi. Runs a controller that receives a message to turn on and off the laser. I hope it will also control some servos later.
  • Logitech c270 webcam, disassembled, so it can be installed on the casing
  • Sparkfun TTL Controlled Laser Module
  • A Targus mini USB hub
  • My Powered USB cable provides the extra current that the Raspberry Pi can’t provide to USB devices
  • A couple of USB power sources, one for the RPi and the other for the USB devices
  • A lousy acrylic casing, the first thing I’ve done with acrylic

Also, check the video for an overview of its parts and how it works.

This project has lasers, Arduino, and Raspberry PI, what more could you possibly want?

Read the details on his blog.

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