Have you ever brought home a couple of adorable kittens, only to find yourself swept up in a whirlwind of feline mischief? It’s a common experience for many cat owners who underestimate the boundless energy and mischievousness of their furry companions. But fear not, because Hoani Bryson has come up with a brilliant solution to keep your playful kittens entertained while you go about your daily activities.
Bryson, like many cat owners, noticed that cats have an undeniable fascination with laser pointers. They will go to great lengths to chase that elusive red dot, performing gravity-defying leaps and twists in the process. Inspired by this, Bryson set out to create an automated laser turret that would stimulate his kittens’ hunting instincts and provide them with endless entertainment.
The result of his efforts is LazerPaw, a ceiling-mounted device that uses computer vision and intelligent tracking to keep the laser moving away from the cats as they give chase. By mounting a low-power red laser to a servo pan-tilt module and attaching a camera, Bryson was able to ensure that the laser was always at the center of the image frame, without the need for manual tracking.
To simplify the cat detection process, Bryson placed a red-colored flooring below the camera, making the cats stand out against the background. This allowed him to employ a thresholding algorithm in OpenCV to detect and localize the cats easily. Bryson even developed a safety feature that turns off the laser if it is pointing directly at one of the kitties, ensuring their well-being.
LazerPaw can be activated through a pushbutton on the device itself or via a web interface that streams images, allowing Bryson to check in on his playful companions even when he is away. The cats thoroughly enjoy the laser chasing experience, bringing peace and amusement to Bryson’s home.
Are you intrigued by LazerPaw and would like to build your own intelligent cat laser turret? You’re in luck! The source code for LazerPaw is available on GitHub, providing you with a step-by-step guide to create this innovative playtime solution for your beloved feline friends.
FAQ:
Q: How does LazerPaw work?
A: LazerPaw uses computer vision and intelligent tracking to move the laser away from the cats as they chase it, stimulating their hunting instincts.
Q: Is LazerPaw safe for cats?
A: Yes, LazerPaw utilizes a low-power red laser and includes a safety feature that turns off the laser if it is pointing directly at the cats.
Q: Can I monitor my cats while I am away?
A: Absolutely! LazerPaw includes a web interface that streams images, allowing you to check in on your furry friends from anywhere.
Q: Where can I find the source code for LazerPaw?
A: You can access the source code for LazerPaw on GitHub [github.com/lazerpaw].
Q: Is LazerPaw suitable for all types of cats?
A: Yes, LazerPaw can be enjoyed by cats of all breeds and ages. However, it is always recommended to supervise your pets during playtime for their safety.