VHDL described finger tracking system for real-time human-machine interaction
Xabier Iturbe, Andoni Altuna, Alberto Ruiz de Olano, Imanol Martínez · 2008
This work presents an image recognition technique that enables finger position to be automatically detected in natural interaction systems, within the context of ambient intelligence, AmI. The aim is a robust system in which users do not need to wear gloves containing specific colored markings to establish location. The system has been validated, having been used for the design of a virtual keyboard. The algorithm is based on the Hough Transform to detect the presence of straight lines in a scene, as the finger’s profile is sufficient for this method to be employed. To distinguish between a finger and other straight forms that may accidentally appear in a scene, the algorithm fine-tunes location by incorporating movement information. The system is implemented using a field programmable gate array (FPGA), providing real-time capability and improving the sensation of interaction for the user. In this article, we present a detailed description of all the stages involved.