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Robotics 101: Computer Vision

Build Python programs that can recognize motion, objects, people, and hand gestures!

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Robotics 101: Computer Vision

Robotics 101: Computer Vision

Build Python programs that can recognize motion, objects, people, and hand gestures!

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Registrations Closed

About

This is the first in a series of courses on building autonomous robots in which you'll explore computer vision software used by security cameras, robot vacuums, self-steering cars, etc.

You'll use the OpenCV software (Open Source Computer Vision Library) to build Python programs (a high-level programming language used in multiple fields). Open CV is a free, open-source software library that's a standard tool for computer vision and image processing. It's used by companies like Google, startups, and academic researchers to develop computer vision and deep learning applications.

Session 1: Setup development environment and run sample CV code.

Session 2:
Detecting objects, people, and hand gestures.

Details

  • All software used is open source and free. You'll need a laptop with a functioning camera running Windows 10/11, MacOS 10+, or Ubuntu 20+. The Tech Lab has a small amount of equipment available to borrow.
  • There will be two lectures/coding sessions that last two hours over one week that will give participants a code base to learn computer vision. You'll be able to use follow-up Open Studios to help with specific projects.
  • Google Classroom will be used for course delivery, course materials, and program sharing. You'll get links to prior to the start date.
  • Skill level: Intermediate. Some experience with Python programming or other computer language needed.

Class Policies

Ages 14 and up are welcome.

Instructor
Nat Ballou

Nat has worked in the computer field for more than 40 years. He was employed at both large companies (NCR, AT&R, Microsoft) as well as small, startup companies building mobile applications. Nat holds a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in digital education leadership from Seattle Pacific University. Nat also has taught computer science at a community college on the east side. He and his wife moved to Bainbridge Island in September 2020 and immediately became BARN members. You can reach Nat at natbal@gmail.com for any questions.

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