We have just over a week left until our project due date and presentation.  We have the programs written for face detection, color detection, and basic blob detection.  Blob detection is the best method for motion tracking because it does not require the object to be of a certain color, size, or orientation.

What we have left to do is integrate the Arduino with the finished computer program on Open CV.  This is proving to be challenging.  The Arduino board is not properly communicating with the computer, so many bugs must still be ironed out.

The laser mount mentioned in previous posts proved to difficult to print in plastic, and expensive to machine out of aluminum.  Instead of these methods, we have decided to use a flat piece of sheet metal bent to shape.  The shape will allow the laser to slip in through two holes.  It also mounts in the same holes as the original servo motor.

Finally, we built a simple wooden base to mount the robotic arm and camera too.  It is essential that both do not move once they are calibrated.  It has allows use to conceal many of the wires and components underneath.  This is not just purely cosmetic, but also eliminates the possibility that the wires will get caught on the arm in motion and alter its position.