Ball Hit Detection Project for Python Machine Learning Jam

Theme: Machine Learning

Project Overview

Create a Python-based machine learning system that accurately detects when a tennis ball hits a designated area on a wall and translates this interaction to a full-size virtual white screen on a computer. Both the physical frame and the virtual screen should maintain a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Core Requirements

1. Frame Setup:
   • Use colored tape to create a frame on a wall
   • The frame must have a 16:9 aspect ratio
   • Minimum frame size: 32 inches diagonal (approximately 28 inches width x 15.75 inches height)
   • The frame can be extended to any size up to 200 inches diagonal
   • The system should work with any frame size within this range, maintaining the 16:9 ratio
2. Camera Setup:
   • Use a webcam directed towards the framed area
3. Virtual Screen:
   • Create a full-size white screen on the computer that corresponds to the framed area on the wall
   • The virtual screen must also maintain a 16:9 aspect ratio
   • Ensure proper scaling between the physical frame and the virtual screen
4. Ball Hit Detection:
   • Detect when a tennis ball hits within the framed area
   • Identify the exact point of impact where the ball hits the wall
   • Implement strategies to minimize noise and false positives
   • Ensure high accuracy in distinguishing actual hits from near misses or other movements
5. Hit Visualization:
   • When a ball hit is detected, display a black circle at the corresponding location on the virtual white screen
   • The black circle should persist on the screen
   • Only register and display hits that actually contact the wall within the frame
6. Calibration:
   • Implement a method to calibrate the system for different frame sizes, ensuring the 16:9 aspect ratio is maintained
   • Ensure accurate mapping between the physical frame and the full-size virtual screen
7. Lighting Robustness:
   • Ensure the system works under various lighting conditions without compromising hit detection accuracy

Constraints

• Use only a webcam and tennis balls for the implementation
• The solution should work with common household items for setup (e.g., colored tape for the frame)

Deliverables

1. Python script implementing the accurate ball hit detection system
2. Brief user guide for setting up and running the system, including instructions for creating a properly proportioned frame
3. Short demonstration video showcasing the project in action, highlighting the accuracy of hit detection