Monday, March 16, 2009

RFID Enabled Globe for remote controlling Google Earth

My plan to control the world is done.. at least the prototype.
I have created a globe that has RFID tags stuck on the insides that drives Google Earth. So, in effect, I have created a remote control physical globe for a virtual one. :) Right now the globe only has three tags and supports viewing Africa, Antarctica and the good 'ol U.S. of A. via a Touchatag reader.
To Google Earth's credit, just using a command-line to load a .KMZ file is quick and painless, with no noticible UI refreshes, etc. So, the effect of using the globe remote is smooth and seamless. I'll publish a video and how-to later.


Here's a link to the pictures:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnmknight/sets/72157615349049677/

New Photos.

Randomness from this week in photos.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnmknight/sets/72157615371310694/
Enjoy.

The Space Station is behind my house!

I took this picture of the ISS last night as it flew behind my house. I don't know why NASA didn't consider the big tree in my backyard when they decided to give me a fly over. Silly rocket scientists. Couldn't have have cut down some branches at least with a laser or something? For those wondering if a follow up shot of Endevor chasing the ISS is order, the answer is yes. Now, NASA just had to cut down some trees from space...
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