Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
More Ideas to Work With
openFrameworks has a lot more functionality than described in this chapter. openFrameworks can manipulate sound
images or even 3D objects, and the connection to serial devices or Arduinos allows controllers to be built that can
control the computer. You can create programs to control the Arduino as well. With all the possible projects that you
can create using Arduinos, the extra features that openFrameworks provides may make it hard to decide where to go
and what to do. Try out some of the ideas listed below; they came up during a few brainstorming sessions. These ideas
should help further your exploration of openFrameworks while providing more experience with the platform.
•
Use a keypad to select a song from a playlist (i.e., make a jukebox).
•
Make a small game using an old hard drive motor for the input controls.
•
Create a logging system that records data to a database such as MySQL using Arduino and
openFrameworks.
•
Build a dynamic scrolling LED marquee that also displays the characters being typed on the
computer screen.
•
Create an RGB LED array to build a mood light that changes in response to audio or visual cues.
Summary
This chapter discussed the fundamental steps to integrate openFrameworks with Arduino. As a development tool,
openFrameworks may provide the catalyst that can take a good idea to the next step. Its versatility is only increased by
providing two great ways to develop: using serial or Firmata. With time and use, most developers will find a preference
for one method over the other.
openFrameworks has a lot more functionality than can be covered here, but this chapter should provide you
the knowledge and confidence to delve deeper into openFrameworks. Also check out other resources available; the
forums at
www.arduino.cc/
and
www.openframeworks.cc/
are great places to find more information. The examples
included with openFrameworks can also provide excellent insight.
