Wiimote Project

Boonjin
If only I had my Wiimote at home to test, will have to wait until Monday!  >:(

This looks awesome. I think you have just taken the lead for the most functional Wiimote Whiteboard Application.

I look forward to testing  :D :D :D

Benpaddlejones :-)

Maybe you can start creating your settings files. :)

Boon Jin

I did a quick test on the screen of my PC.  Works like a charm so far and the ALT-TAB function, which is for me a very nice functionality works great.

User interface is very workable and easy to use.

What I particularly like is having an idea what the Wiimote sees for optimizing the tracking area. It would be equally interesting, if possible, to have an indicator of how much sensitivity the Wiimote has to help selecting a good sensitivity level.

Coming Tuesday I have a good possibility to field test it.  I think I will put some post-its around the projected area with ALT, TAB, and enter on it.  I'm looking forward to it, the more since I built myself an IR pen that has the switch in the tip (press the pen on the board = IR led is on, remove the pressure on the board = IR led is off).

Again, great work Boon Jin!!!

Stefan

Thanks for your quick feedback.
Hopefully it works well for you.  :)

Regarding the sensitivity indicator, I might include it in the next version. However, I have difficulty testing it as I do not have a projector, and placing the Wiimote near the screen (using a small screen). Maybe I can include just a slight feedback regarding the blob size of the IR source and also some calculations to determine the consistency of the detection of the IR source.

Thanks again for the suggestion!

Great!!! software!!!
Calibration is Advanced Settings is very helpfull and the clickareas are very usefull.
Would it be possible to make versions in other languages (Dutch in my case)?

I was thinking about a more 'realtime' calibration: suppose I have a frame of some kind with four IR LED's at the corners.
The size should fit the calibration area on the whiteboard.
Would it then possible to position the Wiimote while the calibration screen is continuously updated so that you can easily find the best position?
I understand that the Wii mote can detect 4 sources of IR LED's. Perhaps an idea for a separate calibration tool?


Thanks again for this software.
I will further test and report if necessary.

I've watched and read with excited anticipation of the development of Boon Jin's whiteboard modifications and improvements. I think Boon Jin should be rewarded with his own projector so he can get the full effect of what he is revolutionizing. I will gladly contribute...

Got a paypal account Boon Jin?

I will contribute as well

BoonJin, this looks amazing.

The one thing that I'd love to see implemented in a windows environment is the ability to use multiple wiimotes.  It has been implemented in both the Linux version and the Mac (Java) version, but I haven't seen it in a good ol' windows environment.

Basically, the problem is this:  I use my wiimote whiteboard in my high school classroom... mostly in my Chemistry Honors classes.  My wiimote is mounted centrally on the ceiling and does a pretty good job "seeing" the screen.  However, sometimes students will stand directly in front of where they are trying to write blocking the IR camera completely. I'd like to be able to have 2 wiimotes "seeing" the screen at all times, so even if one is blocked by a student the other will see it.

Here's an example picture.

Thanks for your positive responses!

About localizing the software to different languages, I think it can be done when the software is stable and ready to be released officially. Will need a lot of help with this.  :D

The real time calibration method will be useful but requires a bit more work on the setup. The IR diodes have to be placed at the corners of the screen and activated by a switch which might be a bit awkward. hehe. The programming part of this will not be difficult as the I can retrieve the four IR sources in real time.
I will certainly add this to the 'todo' list.  :P

By testing the software and providing suggestions, you have already contributed a lot. Many thanks to all!

Once the application is stable, we can start promoting it to be used as an end-user application. :)

Hi!

My original aim in developing the new wiimote whiteboard is actually to support two Wiimotes. :) However, I found that the usability of the wiimote whiteboard can be first improved by having toggles. This can allow presenters to use the whiteboard without the need of going to the keyboard or using a mouse.

Next, I will be trying to do the multiple (two) Wiimote support like you have mentioned. Most probably I will just provide some basic functions first. Such as the second Wiimote only is used when it detects an IR source and the primary Wiimote does not.

Boon Jin

PS: How did you mount it to the ceiling? How do you pair and power the Wiimote?
Thanks!!
:)

Boonjin
Borrowed a friend’s wiimote, works awesome the settings and functions are very user friendly.

Given end of term, I won't have a few classes in a row to test its stability. Given last few versions have been very stable I don't this will be a big issue, although I think you need a 64bit tester to check no 64bit issues.

Richwhite http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR3TriDV1kg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR3TriDV1kg)has put out a video where he is also using the wiimote as a whiteboard and application controller. I am thinking the following idea could combine functions into one application:

In the main window in the cursor section have a toggle option "Calibrated Tracking Area" or "All Tracking Area". If calibrated tracking area is checked then as is. If all tracking area is checked it works the same as Jason Smiths Presenter application.

In the Advanced setting window is a third tab "Keyboard Controls" this tab allows users to custom set each wiimote keyboard (and accelerometer too if poss) settings.

This then only leaves the connection issue? Do you think the Java connection can be ported to yours? This is very stable and appears to connect across all platforms including widcomm.

Once again great work   ;D

Benpaddlejones :D

Ben

I have not used the Wiimote Presenter yet. Can you explain more about the All Tracking Area option?

Thanks!

Boon Jin
(will be adding a feedback form template at the first post)

Impressive stuff here :D

Rather than a static remote & dynamic IR-Source in a calibrated zone (your whiteboard setup)

The full tracking area is sensitive and is not calibrated. I have a perminatly on IR-Source sitting on my whitebaord ledge.

I then hold the wiimote (the buttons are set to send specific key strokes). I use as a Powerpoint Presenter. Thus I can press buttons to run mouse clicks & keybaord strokes as per my settings.

If I want to control the mouse I point the wiimote at the white board and it moves the mouse based on hand movement relitive to the perminant IR-source.

Best way to explain is as a reverse whiteboard. The IR-source is static and the wiimote is dynamic. Movement always controls the cursor but need to push a button to acheive mouse clicks (left/right/middle).

Ben :-)

Hey,
verry good work congratulations! I will test it at home, i really like the thing where you can see the trackingutilisation and the ability to set the sensitivity.

Keep on developing this!

I will give feedback as son as i find the time to really test it. I know how important feedback is as i'm a developer myself(WiimoteConnect).

One thing i noticed is that if you start the application without a wiimote connected it crashes.
It would be an idea to start the application even if no wiimote is connected (handle error) and let the apllication, as long as no wiimote is connected, try to connect every x seconds or so. You coud maybe indicate the connectionstatus in the statusbar or so.

thex

Thex/Boonjin
On 32Bit XP I found that the program did not crash, when started without Wiimote connected.

I accidently started Wiimote SmoothBoard before connecting Wiimote (just wasn't thinking). Relising my error I noticed the program did complete only brining up a error saying something along the lines of "no wiimote detected" given JCL's app's never completed execution without a connected Wiimote, I though I'd connect a Wiimote and see what happens. It connected fine, I could then press the 'A' button and the calibration window displayed but the IR-Camera did not detect my IR-Pen. I had to shut everything down then execute in correct order  to get full functionality.

Not sure if this is of any use but interesting compared to Thex's experience and your idea of allowing Wiimote SmoothBoard to run as a background application, until a Wiimote is connected.

Benpaddlejones

Sorry forget to mention, error appeared on the following system:
Dell D630
Vista(32bit) SP1
MS bluetooth stack

thex

Got it! Thanks! :)

How do you want to trigger this mode? By a option box in the main window?

I have downloaded the Wiimote Presenter source code but could not open it because it uses VS2008. I have just downloaded the VS2008 Express Edition. Will install it later.

BTW, I will be going for a short holiday trip tomorrow. Will only be back a few days later. :)

thex,
Thanks for the response :)
I will be trying to make it the app to poll for the detection of the wiimote. However, I have some problems previously where the WiimoteLib will crash when a Wiimote is not detected.

I will try again later. Hopefully I can make the application to standby in the background similar to your application. I have already made it to auto start with windows but its useless without the ability to wait for the wiimote to connect.

Any ideas on how to detect the presence of a wiimote, regardless of the library used?

Thanks!!!

Out of topic: Do you have any basic documentations regarding your application (wiimoteConnect 0.5)? I am not sure about the environment which the app will work. Thanks!


Hm...I did not expect you still can press the 'A' button.  ;D
In the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.1 version, I have not yet successfully made the application to automatically wait for a Wiimote.
Hopefully, this can be ready in the next version.

I will be experimenting more. hehe

Boon Jin

Hey,
I have created several videos showcasing the Wiimote Smooth Board.

Wiimote Smooth Board 0.1 - Demonstration
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j90JIH--RkI

Wiimote Smooth Board 0.1 - Calibration
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ceubMfW4Z8

More videos here:
http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/05/wiimote-smooth-board-01-videos (http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/05/wiimote-smooth-board-01-videos)

i don't realy have documentation ;) but feel free to ask me anything

maybe you can check if a wiimote is connected if you enumerate the human interface devices and search vor the VID of the wiimote

thex

an other improvement would be a feedback for the outer screen stuff

some OSD message that says "right-click enabled" or a ballon message or something like this

thex

Thanks for the great idea!
I think i will make a small balloon showing the user what was clicked.
And this option can be disabled or enabled.

On the update of my current work, I have made a new feature to allow a portion of a screen to be calibrated (instead of full screen). This is for screens which is too huge and is hard for the user to calibrate. This can also be used for teachers/presenters who wants to allow drawing/cursor control within a limited screen area. As the tracking area is focused within an area of the screen, the tracking accuracy should be better than tracking the whole screen.

Currently, I am working on the two wiimotes. Hopefully this will work out. :)

Thanks!

Boon Jin

Option box is best!

I think seperating the options of:
a) Being able to switch between calibrated and uncalibrated Ir Camera tracking
and
b) "Mouse Click" at IR detection and "Move Mouse to" IR detection

Benpaddlejones

This is the best whiteboard app! Much appreciation. Hats off. This opens up a lot of new avenues, now all I need is my favorite commercial applications to get multi touch capability.

PRUSER

Thanks to everyone who have been testing and giving feedback regarding the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.1

I have just completed the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.2 with the most critical feature most of you are looking for: 2 Wiimotes support.
The second wiimote will provide the redundancy. If the secondary wiimote detects the IR source and the first wiimote does not, the values will be taken from the second wiimote. If calibration was done nicely, the transition between the two wiimotes should be almost unnoticeable.  :)
The secondary and primary wiimotes can be switched through the application's settings.

Like I have mentioned previously, this version also contains the partial screen area selection feature. This allows you to focus the tracking area to a specific screen area (MS Paint window etc). The tracking accuracy of the focused area will certainly be better than tracking the entire screen. You can use this feature to prevent users (e.g. young children) from messing around with other parts of your system by limiting the tracked area.

You will also be able to use two wiimotes simultaneously (primary wiimote tracking a focus drawing area and the secondary wiimote tracking the full screen). This will allow you to have greater tracking accuracy within your drawing area and at the same time being able to use the whole screen through the secondary wiimote.

I will be able to release the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.2 only in the next few days as I do not have a permanent access to an internet connection at the moment.

Next Version?
In the future, I will be planning to add the Wiimote Presenter style feature, two different selection area for the two wiimotes, balloon to notify the executed toggle, and the auto detection of connected wiimotes.

Lovely work BoonJin!

I can't wait to test it out!  Great work!

Great work on this software, looks awesome.

Dice :)

I have finally completed the documentations for the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.2
Sorry to keep everyone waiting. :)

You can jump straight to here: http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/13/wiimote-smooth-board-02-beta (http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/13/wiimote-smooth-board-02-beta)
or go to the first post of this thread: http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-whiteboard/wiimote-smooth-board-0-1-beta/ (http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-whiteboard/wiimote-smooth-board-0-1-beta/)

I have actually implemented the cursor motion only mode because of a request from a kindergarten teacher. :)

I think the toggle area toolbar will be cool. Maybe those toggle area will be sticked together side by side.
So do you think it would be best that the toggled click will be only for one click or continuous until the user change to another type of click?

I have not looked into anyone's code yet as I am concentrating on the wiimote smooth board but I have already downloaded them. :) I am still unsure of how to use thex's wiimote connect application.

Btw, do you think setting a Wiimote button to switch between the presenter mode and whiteboard mode will be ok?

Thanks!

Boon Jin

Boonjin
Been thinking again!
Here is a list of my idea's:
1. Yes a toolbar with toggle option side by side would be best. Maybe choices:
    a) Left Click (locked)
    b) Left Click (Next click only)
    b) Right Click (locked)
    c) Right Click (Next click only)
    d) Double Click (Next click only)
    d) Cursor Motion Only
    e) No Cursor Control
2. I think the "Smoothing" option should also be in the "Cursor Control" tab.
3. Have only one settings file
    - I think you currently have a general settings file and another for outside screen toggles
    - This settings file is loaded from the main window, rather than 'outside screen toggles' tab.
    - Thus a user can have a number of pre-set settings for different operating environments, all loaded from the main window so the user does advanced settings once, saves the settings file and then they can recall quickly and easily from main window, without going into advanced settings everytime.
    - I can then open my custom 'Powerpoint Presenter' settings that automatically put into presenter mode and have all my programmed buttones. Then I can then open my 'Student Kindlelab' settings that have the outside toggles set for students and the partial screen tracking I set for Kindle lab. Then I can open my 'Onenote' settings that have my onenote specific tools, etc
    - Maybe worth the 'Settings File' be named on the 'Main Window' so user knows which file is currently loaded.
4. If the Presenter Mode & Whiteboard switch is on the Wiimote you reduce the number of programmable keys, I think it would be better on the 'Main window'. It could be an option for those that want it.
5. The key programming options should then be a tab in the advanced settings window.

Benpaddlejones   :)

Yesterday I made a toolbar with Cursor Motion only, left click, right click, double click and locked double click.
The locked right click did not work well so I have removed it. However, in the Advanced Settings-Cursor Control tab the locked right click is still usable.

Like you requested, I have placed it in the Cursor Control tab too. :)


Currently I have separated the outside click settings file because I feel that these files can be shared by the users easily.
I am now thinking of ways to allow easy switching of the settings files.

Until now I have not actually used the Wiimote Presenter....must try this soon. :)

The settings file named in the window will be in too.

Noted!

On the updates for my next version
I have created a small notification window that will fade in and out when you have toggled an outside click. (very useful..from now onwards I will keep this enabled all the time) :)

Cursor Control Toolbar - easily resizable and switch the toolbar to be vertical/horizontal

Boon Jin

Boonjin
I look forward to testing!

The presenter is an awesome program I have used many professional presenters (some costing over $200) and the Wiimote prsenter does it so much better (cursor control and  heaps more buttons) plus it is by default very ergonomic.

The only missing element from a professional presenter is a laser pointer. If you could push a button which turns the mouse to a red dot this it would make the wiimote better than any presenter on the market by a long shot.

Many higher education teachers would use the presenter more than the Interactive Whiteboard. Having them bundled together makes an awesome one-stop software solution.

Benpaddlejones :)

Last night I tried out the Wiimote Presenter. It was awesome!
I could control my desktop from my bed. :)

Will start ripping it apart and integrating into Wiimote Smooth Board. Just converted the Wiimote Smooth Board to the C# 2008 to suit the Wiimote Presenter.

Do I just keep the Wiimote Presenter file format and configuration interface? However, I am planning to remove the LED timings etc.

Btw, Wiimote Smooth Board 0.2 and Wiimote Presenter can actually run together if you have two wiimotes. Run Wiimote Presenter first and then run Wiimote Smooth Board (set to multiple wiimotes).

Boon Jin

The whiteboard and presenter functions are two completely different functions and I would say keep them separate. My fear is that the growing complexity will affect performance, though perhaps unfounded. There could be two versions of the software: 1)Wiimote Smooth Board and 2) Wiimote Smooth Board w/Wiimote Presenter. Just a thought...

jmitchell
Reason for integrating is switching between the two crashes wiimote connection and occasionally your system.

Plus my expereince with most low-tech teachers is that they find multiple programs confusing. They are more likely to use only one program. The settings files will allow for settings to be preset/shared then the tecaher can just open settings and have what they want. High-tech teachers will just do what they have always done (personalise/customise and work arround).

Benpaddlejones

I have just successfully integrated the Wiimote Presenter into the Wiimote Smooth Board. Took me quite a long time to do as the user interface was quite huge (many elements) and I am now using the WiimoteLib 1.4 instead of 1.2.

Now, we have the ultimate wiimote smooth board. :)
With two wiimotes you can actually use the Whiteboard and Presenter simultaneously. Primary Wiimote for Whiteboard and Secondary Wiimote for Presenter.

There is a radio button in the main page. Whiteboard, Presenter, and Wiimote and Presenter.

Now I am working on a quick way to switch setting files.

Boon Jin

Great minds think alike!

I was wondering if this was possible but thought I'd let you get your head arround the presenter first!

Did you have any luck with a laser pointer function on the presenter?

I think the settings file should be uploaded from the main window. Saves the need to go into advanced settings. A tech-savy teacher can create settings, demonstrate to the tech-novice then they can simply upload settings, without getting lost in the advanced settings.

Thinking about the main window providing basic needs, can a mirror of the Tracking Utilisation/Calibration image be displayed there?

Benpaddlejones :-)

I have not tried to make a laser pointer yet. :)

Changing settings is now as easy as pressing Next and Previous on the main window. there is one for Outside Screen Toggles and one for Wiimote Presenter
The file name will be stated there.

I think the main window is already a bit crowded. The stuff here is about all that I will try to fit. I am scared it will be intimidating for the first time users.  :P

Boon Jin

WOOOWWWW! Am looking forward to testing that out for sure!!!

It is a good reason to get another Wiimote for those who have only one.  :D
It was really fun to play with the ability to use the cursor from afar (Presenter) and draw on the screen (Whiteboard). During presentations, you can hold the Presenter wiimote on your left hand while using the IR pen on your right (I am right handed). The Presenter will allow seamless changes between slides/features with the assigned buttons.

I have successfully made an option to convert your cursor into a laser pointer (drawn by myself). However, I can't seem to convert it back to the original default cursor. As a temporary solution, you can choose any of the cursors that are stored in a subdirectory (\cursors). I have included Vista, XP cursors but it might not be accurate as I have edited them myself (could not find the original files). There is a large laser pointer and an ordinary laser pointer.

If anyone has some nice looking or even the original windows cursors, please send to me. Thanks!

Yesterday, I have also completed the option to allow users to select the screen used for the whiteboard. Previously, only the primary screen can be used. After selecting the display, notifications,select screen area,cursor toggle area,and calibration will be shown on the chosen display.

A potential problem with using the Whiteboard and Presenter simultaneously is the IR source, which is usually placed near the screen. The application might register this IR source as a Whiteboard click. Therefore, I have included a simple feature to allow you to ignore this stationary IR source. IR dots found within this area will be
ignored by the Whiteboard.

As suggested by Ben, I have allowed the application to minimize to the system tray. :)
How about the original RightClick system tray icon. Will it be still useful or we can just scrap it off? Hm...Just a few weeks ago this was the core of my development. heeheh

My final addition will be the cursor smoothing for the Presenter mode. :)

What if the stationary IR-Source is out of the calibrated area (and the periferal programmed zones), do you still need to ignor?

Can it be made optional? I use it heeps but I know some system trays are really full and some won't use it. Making it optional gives users the most flexibility.

Will be very helpfull I'm a shaker (too much caffine & Red Bull) so I find Jason's app difficult to select Icon's.

I thought you had skill then! Now, I think its pretty safe to say you CAN program!

Benpaddlejones :)

Sure. :)


Yeah, it was difficult to click on icons or launch applications. Most of the time, it was a drag motion.

I have added the smoothing feature. Reused most of my previous code and it works quite well. :)

Once this is done, I will need help on rearranging the user interface (minor changes) to be more intuitive and adding simple understandable instructions within the user interface.
Lastly, we will need to create user guides for teachers and also detailed instructions.
Thanks!

I can def help with this!

Benpaddlejones :)

Great!
When will your classes at school resume?
We can try to prepare a timeline for our Wiimote Smooth Board.
:)

Boonjin
Back at school tomorrow, but I tend to treat time flexible so can fit most things in.

I'd be keen to have manual 100% together and edited within two weeks of the application being ready for Beta release.

I think best to start on the manual when the GUI is in the final refining stage. Otherwise we will be constantly rewriting with every change.

I think either a HTML or PDF manual is best.

Benpaddlejones  :)

Any of these help:
http://www.thebitguru.com/articles/14-Programmatically%20Changing%20Windows%20Mouse%20Cursors (http://www.thebitguru.com/articles/14-Programmatically%20Changing%20Windows%20Mouse%20Cursors)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q160041/ (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q160041/)
http://www.syncfusion.com/faq/windowsforms/faq_c99c.aspx (http://www.syncfusion.com/faq/windowsforms/faq_c99c.aspx)

Benpaddlejones :)

I am currently using the MSDN's solution which I have converted to C# .Net. Currently, it captures the wait cursor instead of the default cursor. Will try it out again later as I am getting bored with this cursor thing.
:)

Will also try out the registry method.

Thanks!


Below is a drawing in Paint using an IR pen and a Presenter Wiimote simultaneously :)

Artistic! - I think there is room for that kind of art around here ;)

Boonjin

I wouldn't waste too much time on it either. The other issues are way more important for the overall functionality, this is just a bonus

Benpaddlejones :)

Hi,
I was wondering if a full complete version of the software is out yet.  if not, I'm looking forward to it and please tell me if it has come out!  btw, it looks pretty cool! :D

Thanks

Hi,
I am still doing some fine tuning to this 'ultimate' Wiimote Smooth Board. :)
If everything goes well, I will release it within the next few days. However, this time I might not prepare in depth documentations compared to previously. This is just to allow some testing in the actual environment first.
Then, I will need all the help to prepare end-user documentations. :)
Once that is completed, the Wiimote Smooth Board 1.0 will be released.

I will keep everyone updated.

I have just released the latest version, Wiimote Smoothboard 0.3.5 :)
The several differences with the Wiimote Smooth Board 0.2 is the inclusion of the Wiimote Presenter 0.2 (I take no credit from Jason Smith's hardwork), Cursor Control Toolbar and simplified settings file switching mechanism.

For the Presenter Mode, I have added Cursor Smoothing and laser pointer cursors (Warning! This will replace your cursor. Therefore, I have included several cursors in the Cursors folder).

As I have found that to enter the Key Codes for the Wiimote Presenter is cumbersome, I have added a section where the codes will be automatically generated. On the combo box field, you can select from the drop down list or just press the keyboard button. Most keyboard keys will be detected accurately. :)
For example, if you want to add a copy key combination of , CTRL + C, you just have to press the CONTROL key on the first field. Then focus the next field and press the C key. Next, just choose which button you want to assign this code to and press enter.
Similarly, the Outside Screen Toggles tab will also feature this new improvement.

Details at the first post: http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-whiteboard/wiimote-smooth-board-0-1-beta/msg4470/#msg4470
and at my website: http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/22/wiimote-smoothboard-35

We truly need your feedback for this version.
Thanks!

Very Nice!

Your doing some really great work, keep it up.  now if only it was for Mac's :)

Keep it up!
Dice :)

Brilliant!!!

Boonjin
Some really cool programming, love the presenter integration. Can the switch between cursor & Laser pointer be done as a Wiimote keyboard press?

What changes can you perceive with the GUI?

Benpaddlejones

Does the cursor function works well for you? :)
I will maybe make new WP key codes to do this.

Is the GUI's arrangement/text is self explanatory or is not intuitive enough at the moment?
If you have any suggestions on rearrangements/text replacements, please tell me.

Thanks!
I think I will make a web survey so that people can give a quick feedback. :)

Update: I have created a Software Evaluation Survey that can be found here:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=1CImYo18SKEDrq0nn_2bsV2A_3d_3d (http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=1CImYo18SKEDrq0nn_2bsV2A_3d_3d)

Please provide your feedback regarding the functionality of the Wiimote Smoothboard. Your responses are greatly appreciated.
With your valuable feedback, the Wiimote Smoothboard will be able to be improved tremendously and ready to be released to everyone.


Boon Jin

Boonjin
Cursor function and options are fantastic.

Laser Pointer:
   Thinking list to selecting to "Default Cursor"
   Then add key strokes options in presenter to change to:
      * Small Red Laser Dot
      * Large Red Laser Dot
      * Medium Red Arrow
      * Large Red Arrow
   Then when allocated button is pressed and for duration held cursor changes to selection
   and returns to selected default on press release.

Gui:
Confusion between option for 'Partiatial Screen' in 'Cursor Control' Tab and 'Partiatial Screen' Tab. I think this need to be together in with the 'Partial Screen' tab.

I will play more over next few days, looking specifically for ease of use in the GUI.

Small Bug:
Steps:
   1. Started in Whiteboard only mode, calibrated, ect fine
   2. Switched to'Presenter Only Mode'
   3. Closed
   4. Re-opened
   5. At calibaration screen instead of the 4 calibration point being about 1cm from edge of screen they were closely grouped towards the middle, just outside your logo.
   6. Calibrated fine, full screen cursor control but terrible accuracy
   7. Tried restarting (inc whole system) - no fix
   8. Reloaded all files from *.zip - no fix
   9. Deleted 'Calibration.dat' - FIXED
Not sure why, but a calibration data seemed to lock something.

Otherwise:
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TylvUGJIi_w

Benpaddlejones
p.s. Left a message for you at http://www.wiimoteproject.com/ir-pens/ir-pen-gallery/ (http://www.wiimoteproject.com/ir-pens/ir-pen-gallery/)

I will try to look into this. :)
That's a great idea! It will be like using an actual laser pointer.

Actually, the Limit Cursor in Screen area, ignores IR sources outside of the selected screen area. If used for partial screen area, this will limit the cursor within the confined area. If used in full screen, this will ignore the IR sources that is found outside the screen (can be used for ignoring ir source used in Presenter Mode). Therefore, there seems to be no suitable place to place this option. Maybe split into two different options?


Thanks for the detailed step-by-step account of the bug. Previously I had some problems with the starting up Presenter Mode and have corrected the issue. Looks like the Presenter Mode and the calibration.dat are causing the application to go haywire again.
Does this problem persist if you repeat the steps?

Thanks!

Boonjin
Gui:
Have you plans to add any more significant functions? As I think we wait until you have finished most features, you get some more feedback and I play some more then, when we are writing the manual the flow of the Gui will be more consistent.

Bug:
I quickly tried to replicate but no success. Seems a bit simple but, would it be easy for application to just ignor the existing 'calibration.dat' and start from fresh every time calibration is executed?

Benpaddlejones :)

Boonjin,

I love the latest version!  I did notice however, that when using the presenter with powerpoint, it skips a slide when I hit the wiimote button emulating a keyboard press left or right.  So it is as I pushed a keyboard left or right twice in a row. 

I will try to quickly rectify this bug. The application was simulating the key press again when the Wiimote button was lifted.
Thanks for the bug report!
:)

Update: I have corrected this bug.
As this bug is quite critical, you should download the updated version at my website: http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/22/wiimote-smoothboard-35 (http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/07/22/wiimote-smoothboard-35)
Sorry for the inconvenience caused.

Thanks to jmatson for identifying and reporting the bug. :)

Boon Jin

Boonjin
I was helping a primary teacher setup her Wiimote Smoothboard today. The calibration this happened again, similar circumstances (switching between presenter & whiteboard).

How do you save a settings file? I could not find how to create a new settings file, only modify & save existing.

If in Presenter only mode, cannot access presenter settings in Whiteboard settings mode.

I like the way the presenter settings slide out from the main window. Can this be done for the Whiteboard settings? Saves having multiple windows etc.

I think I will play more this weekend and compile a list of things that should be grouped, would that be helpful?

When we do a manual, can you include "?" links next too each tool? So if the user is unsure what it does, clicks the "?" then is directed to help details about the tool.

Benpaddlejones :)

Will try to settle this issue as fast as possible.
You can modify the current settings file and click Save As to be a new settings file.

Do you need to access the Presenter Mode tab within the Whiteboard settings? This is because it will only affect the usage of the whiteboard (ignore the stationary IR source)

Yea, the effect seems cool. :) I am scared overloading the main window will cause performance issues. So do you think the whiteboard settings should load into the same area where the presenter settings are? (only one can be shown at a time)


Yeah! Grouping things together will be certainly helpful. You can also rename/rewrite the titles/instructions to be more meaningful.

About the "?" links, I was thinking about that too. We can have a small balloon showing brief information about the function and if possible link to the user guide. The user guide can be made into a Help File (.CHM).

Just tried out wiimote smoothboard 0.3.
Congratulation!!! Wonderfull work well with vista integral SP1

Just a difficulty
Want to adapt the presentation keys for the small zoomit program (simple and very good)
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb897434.aspx
But get some difficulties:
have to do IR pointer+ left click+ tab key but multikey does not support WP special keys
seems that zoomit controls "too many things"

Could you help??

Regards

Hi Lulu1356,
Thanks for the feedback!

I have just downloaded the ZoomIt app. Just to clarify, which WP special keys do you need to function together?

Edit: Wow! Its a cool program. It works well with the wiimote presenter here.
Here is how I added the Zoom Toggle Shortcut for the ZoomIt (Control + 1)
I have just selected the "Key 1" combobox and press the Control button on the keyboard
and selected the "key 2" combobox and press the "1" button on the keyboard
I selected the button I wanted to assigned to from the "Wiimote Button" combobox and clicked Enter.

Repeat the steps for the Drawing Toggle Shortcut (Control + 2)

Here are the automatically generated keycodes:
For Zooming:
WP82 0x11 0x31 ControlKey D1
For Drawing:
WP82 0x11 0x32 ControlKey D2

Thanks! Its really a cool small app!

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hello,

thank you for your response,

The difficulty is mapping keys to draw
a square
tab+ir+left click
a circle
Ctrl+IR+leftClick
an arrow
shift+control+ir+left clik

But it seems (not sure) that some key of the wiimote are desabled by the zoomit software

Other question : Do you use or know if somebody use the nunchuk part of the wii?? It could be cool to use it as a trackball and left and right click

Regards

Hi,

Looks like you have to map the left click and other buttons separately. You will have to click both the buttons simultaneously to obtain the circle/lines.

For the Shift+Control+IR+Left Click, you can assign Shift+Control to a button and Left Click to another button. To draw the arrow, press and hold the first button and press on the left click button to start drawing.

If you got an extra Wiimote, then you can use the Whiteboard and Presenter Modes simultaneously. With this, you can click and hold an assigned button (for Control /Shift/Tab/Control+Shift) on the Wiimote and draw directly on the screen with an IR pen

Edit: I have tried another method using the Outside Screen Toggles in the Whiteboard Mode. At the bottom of the screen, I have set the triggers to be, Shift Control Tab and Control+Shift.
When I want to draw a shape for example the arrow (Control+Shift Left Mouse Down), I click and hold while dragging the assigned area of the (Control+Shift) Trigger into any neighbouring screen area and let go. This will cause the application to simulate the key press down without simulating the key press up. Next, you can draw the arrow line.
When you are done, you can release the (control+shift) key by clicking on the specified trigger area once.

Hope this solution helps. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

Thank you for your help

I will try do do something, but after 10 days (I go travelling)

You did not respond for the consideration of the nunchuk

Regards

Hi,
Sorry! I forgot to include the response. hehe.

Using the nunchuk to control the mouse pointer might be quite difficult. If we use the nunchuk's analog control, it might be hard to make fine adjustments to the cursors's motion.
Furthermore, the nunchuk extension does not look suitable during presentations. :)

However, the nunchuk is suitable for controlling motion such as moving around in games.

Currently, the Wiimote Smoothboard does not support the usage of the nunchuk.

Do you have any suggestions on how to utilize the nunchuk?

Regards
Boon Jin

suggestion could be a mouse control such as with a trackball, with right and left click (just like some presenters)
and if accelerometer works in nunchuk to change some parameters (like with wiimote)

Regards

Do you know this program too

http://lightools.fredisland.net/index2.htm

Nice little program too

Do you know others like this?

Regards

Since the Wiimote already has an IR camera, I think having the mouse control on the nunchuk will be quite redundant. :)
I will see what can the nunchuk do.


Wow..looks like you have been using all kinds of software for your presentations. I have not actually used any tools for my presentations yet(even the Wiimote Smooth Board).
Have you tried Annotate! Pro which was recommended by Ben?
http://www.annotatepro.com/ (http://www.annotatepro.com/)
However, it is not free. :)

I am looking, studying and testing, for myself (beginning teaching with it in september), and trying to equip a portuguese university (before december), the university is working for very good IR pointers.
Did not decided yet which one I will use for me

For the junction with the wiimote, I will strongly recommand smoothboard, it is, by far, the most interesting I tested.

I think zoomit seems one of the simplest and more complete.

Succeeding maping keys with smoothboard will be decisive.

Do you which a direct email contact??

Regards

Boonjin
Posted your IR-Pen this morning, should be there in 5-7 days.

I'm going to spend the next few hours playing. I will look specifically at the GUI and how it can be made more user frindly.

I will try to be as visual as posible.

Benpaddlejones :)

Boonjin
I love this version. Finding myself getting more used to it. Almost no changes to the advanced settings, except integrating the Presenter settings.

I am still really big on a single settings file that controls all. When moving arround alot it gets really confusing.

This image show my notes:
(http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-whiteboard/wiimote-smooth-board-0-1-beta/?action=dlattach;attach=358;image)

On the next version can you add the "?" links next to each element, just to see what it looks like and how it will affect the performance of the program.

How do you want me to start writing the help files, just as a text document?

Benpaddlejones :)

Sorry for the late reply. I was away for a short trip.

Thanks for the in depth feedback and the IR pen! I will look through your suggestions :)

With the given explanation, now I understand what you meant by the different settings files. hehe

Regarding the help file, do you think starting with a Wiki style help will be easy to edit? (hosted at my website)
Another option is using MS Word or any HTML editor. We will need to include some screenshots. :)

Once it is almost done, we can convert it to a compiled HTML file to be included in the application and insert the "?" links.

Thanks!

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
I think Word documents to get the text & idea's correct, when complete convert it to HTML with pictures and links. I suggets we have a few documents for each element of the program. We can email between ourselves. Then every few edits publish it for feedback.


Once you have published the next version, I will start, using the basics from your website.

Benpaddlejones :)

Ben,
Great!
I am very excited with the coming full release. :)
Thanks again for your extensive testing!

Btw, are there any other teachers in your school using the interactive whiteboard?

Regards,
Boon Jin

Yes
I have a number of teachers using it. I have also worked with about 30+ teachers in Western Sydney to set it up. Plus I have assisted heaps of teachers arround Australia online using MSN & email to set it up.

New South Wales Department of Education and Training is in the process of rolling out 1 Interactive Whietboard (Smartboard etc) per school. I am pushing this technology as away for teachers to be able to have their own IWB in their class that supports their skills and teaching for the Smartboard version. (Given your latest release has some cool tools that smartboard doesn't maybe we will replace them!)

Benpaddlejones

p.s. Do we want to make a different post about the Manual? just to seperate the two issues otherwise this topic may become difficult to manage.

Wow! That's great! You must really busy there. :)
Hows the current feedback from the other teachers who you have worked with?


Ok, we will make a new topic regarding the documentations. In the meantime, this topic will be for the bugs and suggestions regarding the application.

Please correct me, if I have misunderstood any of your suggestions. :)

Questions:
Currently, the Whiteboard and Presenter share several settings regardless of which modes are used. This is the IR Sensitivity Settings for the wiimote/wiimotes and Multiple Wiimotes Configurations (Single/Two Wiimotes and  Primary/Secondary Switching).
So do you think we should make a separate Settings window for this?

Your suggestion of integrating all the tabs in to the current Presenter Settings is brilliant!

If using this, do we still need to have two button to separate the Whiteboard Settings / Presenter Settings? Or we just have a single button that will slide out the settings tabs but will only display the settings that are relevant to the current mode. (Presenter Mode will show presenter only settings, Whiteboard Mode will show Whiteboard only settings, and Presenter and Whiteboard Mode will show all the settings).

For your single settings file. How would you like the switching to be done? Will it be ok if the switching is done similar to the ones I made for Outside Screen Toggles and Presenter Settings?
I think naming this as the "Global Settings" will sound great. Any other suggestions?
How about the settings switching for Outside Screen Toggles and Presenter Settings? Do we leave it there as it is or remove it?

I will also try to put the visual calibration guide on the main window. :)
Currently, does the main window too cluttered? If I were to increase the size, will it still be acceptable?

You were asking about locking the main window. This should be able to be done but after integrating all the settings together, do you still want this locking feature.
Do you want the window to appear on top of other windows too?

Did you test out the "Ignore IR source" feature (activated only in Whiteboard and Presenter mode). I have a hard time thinking of a easily understandable and fast way of ignoring the point. Basically, the user has to disable cursor control, place the IR source  at the screen and activate it, and click Ignore. Finally, the cursor control will be automatically enabled and all IR dots found in the vicinity of the specified location will be ignored.



Presenter to Whiteboard Bug:
Previously you have mentioned about the bug that occured to you twice. Does the bug only appear after you have restarted the application in the Presenter Mode and then change to Whiteboard Mode?

During your testing, did you find any other abnormalities in the application's behaviour?

If anyone else have found any bugs or unexpected behaviour from the application, please post it here or message me.

Thanks!

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
Always busy, most assume I'm addicted to some stimulant, the reality is I'm just a grown up ADHD kid!

The feedback is awesome, mostly I'm filtering and passing to you. I realise that much of my feedback is presneted from first person when much of it is a combination of first and third person.

At the moment I'm loading v0.2 as I find it is a little more user friendly. However when you make 1.0 I'm so excited it's not funny from a teacher perspective this so so powerful.

I'm currently doing some tutoring with some lower ability maths students at school. I'm am only using the Wiimote Whiteboard with online maths manipulatives and games. I hope to record some video soon on their progress but in three sessions I have shifted four students who hated Math to four students who arrive early to tutoring session and love their math. It is simply amazing.

As soon as you do the next release will open a new topic focused on the manual and start writing.

Here goes:


Yes! They may be similar (or even the same with non applicable settings ghosted) but this simplifies the settings for tech-novices.

I think (obvisously bound by programming limitations) that 1 button called "Settings" is best and the resulting window is based on the selected mode. I.e if "Presenter" mode is selected then when the "Settings button is pressed the "Presenter" settings is displayed or if "Whiteboard & Presenter" mode is selected then when the "Settings" button is selected the "Whiteboard & Presenter" settings is displayed.

1 file
1 place to save the file
1 place to create a new file
1 place do do everything relating to settings files
1 location, no confusion

I love the selection in the main window of v0.3.5 all that is missing is a button to create a new file. I also think it is in the right place. Thus remove all other buttons relating to saving files.

Given the idea above of 1 "settings" button if this was placed below the three toggle buttons of "Whiteboard", "Presenter" & "Whiteboard & presenter" then no this will not be two cluttered. infact you will be removing button from v0.3.5.

No need for settings window to be locked infront. The idea of prevent the "Main Window" from being minimised before the "settings window" is closed, is to prevent confusion. Thus the user is aware of what windows are opened.

I only have 1 wiimote at the moment, but yes I too found this very confusing even to read. Could this be done like a wizard?
Step 1 - User click button "Ignor IR Source"
Step 2 - App disables cursor control & opens window that:
     a) displays visible IR-Soure count/ or IR visualisation
     b) Instructs user to place "1" IR source in view
Step 3 - User clicks "Done"
Step 4 - App displays "IR Camera View" with location of identified IR-Source
     If 1< IR Source identified: Error "More than 1 IR source located", user clicks "return to begining" or "cancel"
Step 5 - "Is this the IR-Source you want to ignor?"
Step 6 - User clicks:
     yes) Settings returned  to beginning and user continues
     no) return to first step of wizard
     cancel) returns to beginning no change in settings

No only after restarting

I don't want to be seen blowing smoke up your arse but you CAN program. Given the massive modifcations you have made to JCL's demo application I would normally expect the program to be falling over like a drunk on newyears eve!
I trully hope that the work you continue to put in to this application is seen buy a programming bigwig and leads to a serious future in programming for you!
I cannot fully express the appeciation that teachers in Western Sydney - Australia have for your efforts, but trust me it is huge!!!

Benpaddlejones :)

Attached are several previews of the modified user interface.

Settings
I ended up creating a double layer tab layout.
I am not sure what others will feel about this but I needed a way to separate the core settings in a distinguishable manner.
Therefore, I have splitted the first layer of tabs into Whiteboard/ Presenter / Wiimote.
Whiteboard or Presenter tab will be shown depending on the mode to avoid confusion.

Main Window
I have now added the Wiimote view in the main window. If its in whiteboard mode or whiteboard+presenter mode, it will show the IR dots seen by the wiimote with the calibrated screen area in the background. Looks cool! ;)
If you are running this in the presenter mode only, you will see the IR dots only in a white background.

The main window will only contain the quick calibration button and the cursor control toolbar button.
The "Show Settings" button will slide in and out the settings portion.

I have just started working on the single file settings saving and loading. Like Ben has suggested, this settings file will set all the application's configurations including partial screen area, outside screen area settings used, multiple/single wiimote, presenter settings used etc.

I will need feedback with this design before I continue working on with this.
As it is very different from the previous design, previous users might need to relearn the UI. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
Love it, flows well and easily sorts content. I think once used may only be a few minor movements if any.

My only suggestions:
1. 'Hide Settings' Button
2. I think 'Mode' toggle should be below the battery level. Not a big thing just how my brain flows the critical path for users.

Otherwise another massive step forward!

Benpaddlejones :-)

Thanks!
Can we make the "show settings" button turn to "hide settings" when the settings is already shown?

Where should we put the Load/Save settings and the settings button itself? below the Mode? or right at the bottom?

I am now working on a more readable configurations file if experienced users would like to edit directly. :)

I have also corrected several bugs.

Users can also double click the calibration window if they want to cancel/exit the calibration. Previously, the user can only press the Escape button on the keyboard to exit calibration.

Any other vital/minor features that are needed?

Regards,
Boon Jin

Great! The layout of the windows is more more simple now, and I agree with the toggle between "Show Settings"/"Hide Settings"
For the Load/Save Settings buttons I think is better at the bottom of the window.
Anyway, very very good program! I like it so much!
You are the whiteboard genius of the forum!! ;D

The perfect solution!

I like:
Pulldown menu
-------------
Battery Level
-------------
Mode
  (Toggles)
-------------
Show Settings
-------------
Load
  (Create/Save buttons)
-------------
Whiteboard
   (Calibrate/Toolbar buttons)
-------------
Screen
    (Visual)
    (Tracking Utilisation)
    (IR Dots)

When they are grouped with a box they make sense visually.

I think will be very userful. Given when this goes Beta the user base will increase masively exposing additional minor bugs and conflicts, a detailed config file will also help debuging.

Is it worth documenting what has been fixed with each release? Just gives a detailed picture of the program.

I assume the double click must come from another HID device? What if the user accidently double clciks their IR-pen?

I waiting for Bluesoleil to tell us they have resolved the connectivity issues and allowed pairing with the Wiimote. Then we have everything and more!

Hear Hear

I'm busting for the next version not only to take it for a test drive but also to start on the manual.

Benpaddlejones :)

Hi!
Thanks for your feedback.

I will try this. But will it be weird for the the settings file list to be on the top separated?

Yea, I have a mini document which tells myself what is updated. However, since it have not reach version 1 yet, its not critical. Once its version 1, then all updates will be neatly documented. :)

Once in calibration mode, the cursor control is disabled, only through other devices, the user can double click (mouse).
This is actually for my own convenience as previously I have to press the keyboard escape button to cancel calibration.

It is coming soon but not promises yet, try to sleep well. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
I just mean move the box with the Mode Toggles and put them between the "Battery Level" box and the "Show Settings" button. I think I over complexified the issue!

I did wonder were this came from, I had the same problem often when playing I would accidently knock the 'A' button or click the 'Calibrate' button and found it frustrating to get out of.

Just came back from two massive days on the Snow, its all I want to do!

Benpaddlejones  :)

First off.. well done Boonjin. I have yet to set up a wiimote white/smooth board but I will soon. We all appreciate your efforts!

A couple of minor suggestions for the user interface:

Why can't the 3 Mode radio buttons be collapsed into a combo box? It could help reduce the visual noise on an already busy dialog.

For the tab control within a tab control, (white board settings), I suggest for the inner tab control that you place the tabs on the bottom. (Not sure if you can do this with the stock WinForms tab control, but check it out).

Or, (better yet), consider breaking out the outer tab control, (whiteboard, presenter, wiimote) into a category selector, and then have a tab control within it where necessary. Exactly like the settings in firefox: go to Tools->Options and click the Advanced category. Then you have a tab control in there. Have a look at the attached screenshot.

Careful with bolding the "Show Settings" button. This immediately draws your attention to this button. Although accessing the settings is very important, consider your typical workflow (where people will have made settings that work for them already).

Hi..

I was following this conversation (thread) from a long time.

I got a new Wiimote and tested this software and the software works like a miracle... When the Multiple wiimotes version was made, I got another wiimote to test and It worked perfectly. I am from India, and my friends are new to Wiimote and to this kind of technologies and they are very excited when I was using my desktop monitor as a touch screen.

I have shown it to my teacher and he is also impressed. And he wants to use it in the classroom. But we are facing trouble while placing the Wiimote fixed towards the board (projected area) also we used two Wiimotes too (Thanks to Boonjin for his fabulous work) to cover the entire projected area without interference, but the placing of the wiimotes and calibrating every time we use them seems to be problematic.

If you can suggest any way to position the wiimote permanently either at board or at the projector so that we just have to calibrate the screen and not to adjust the positions of wiimote every time we want to use Smoothboard.

Thanks for your brilliant suggestion of following the firefox options window. I will try to create some icons and do this, hopefully together with the coming version.

Yeah, I have just 'un'bolded the Show Settings button as you have suggested. :)

For the 3 main modes to be inside a combo box, I will see how according to other feedbacks. (I am used to clicking directly on the option boxes)

Thanks!

Hi!

Once you have found a good position for the wiimotes, and have calibrated the wiimotes in the application, you will not have to recalibrate or reposition the wiimotes. The calibration data for both wiimotes are saved and reloaded next time the application is opened.

Can you explain more regarding the need to readjust the wiimote when you use the Smoothboard?

Thank you!

I have several questions regarding the upcoming version,
1) Should the calibration data saved together with each General Settings File?
2) Should the application auto save the settings when the application is closed?
   and the same settings will be reloaded in the next run, until the user loads another settings file?
3) If the application auto saves the current settings, should the application overwrite the originally made settings file or create a 'current' settings file to prevent the already configure settings file to be modified?

Some of the changes I have made,
Default IR sensitivity is WiiLevel5
Calibration sequence changed to, top left - top right - bottom right - bottom left.

Boonjin
No only thing seperate from the settings file should be calibration data. That way users can share settings without inlfuencing their calibration data.

Can this be a option?
   a) Automatically save changes
   b) Ask to save changes if changes made without saving (save, close without save)
   c) Do not save changes
If not able to make optional I think b) is the best default, it Covers all bases. The last settings file used should be automatically loaded.

Can't wait!

Benpaddlejones :)

Sorry for the delay in this release.

I have just released the latest wiimote whiteboard, Wiimote Smoothboard 0.4.5.
The whole interface is now redesigned and hopefully to be more intuitive for new users.

I have also corrected several bugs and annoying issues with the old version. Please help to test this version out so that we can have a stable version 1 very soon. Thanks!

Additional details and link to ZIP file here: http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/08/14/wiimote-smoothboard-045-beta (http://www.boonjin.com/wp/2008/08/14/wiimote-smoothboard-045-beta)

Later today, I will post some screenshots and basic instructions to get started with this new version.

Please post your comments here. Thanks!

Wiimote Smoothboard 0.4.5 has a general settings file which affects the whole application. This will allow experience users to create specific settings for new users. The new users will just have to click on the specific settings file and all the required settings will be automatically loaded. In certain cases where the screen area is different, the user might have to recalibrate.

To create a new settings file, click on File->Create New Settings File. This will prompt you for the filename of the settings file. Please note that you will have to save the settings file in the Settings directory.
(http://www.boonjin.com/files/wiimote/whiteboard/Wiimote%20Smoothboard%200.4.5%20Beta/File%20Menu%20.jpg)
Configure all the required settings and please remember to click on Save.

When the application is closed and reopened, it remembers the exact settings that was last used. This will allow you to use the application without actually creating or using the general settings file.

Looking very nice indeed Boonjin,

I'll have some time to test it out this coming weekend and will let you know. I'm liking the new look.

Boonjin
AWESOME!

Just spent an hour trying to flow path the software. I can only find the following very minor points:

1. Main screen
   - Battery level at bottom of screen

2. Settings
   - Some elements have a black heading
   - Some have blue heading
Can this be consistently blue with activate check box in top left corner so each stands out and is seperated

3. Whiteboard/Presenter Ignor IR Source
   - Can each stage be marked Step 1, Step 2, Step 3, etc so is obviously a process.

I love how the settings files can be changed, and the global settings method. The general flow of the GUI is extremely user friendly.

I have a heap of work due in for my last unit of my masters, will take a few weeks to clear. I Guess uni has kicked back for you too. I suggest we give it time for users to locate minor bugs. I will slowly start the users manaual with the aim to have a published copy end september. How does that fit with you?

Benpaddlejones :)

Thanks for the feedback!
:)

Thanks for the comments. I will try to work out the colours. :)

Yeah, the university's coursework is killing me. We will give time for people to discover the bugs. But I will really need feedback on this.

You can take your time with the manual. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

I just tested it on my brand new laptop - a Dell Latitude D830 with built in BT from Toshiba

Works like a charm, no problems pairing or anything

10+ on this one

I don't know if it is built in yet but a hotswitch for changing configs/profiles could be handy
( haven't had time to check it out that much)

If you work with multiple configs/profiles you can have 1 for presentation, 1 for Photoshop and so on...And on each of them you have specially dedicated buttons for the application in use


//UndCon

Hi UndCon,

Thanks for the feedback.

For Wiimote Smoothboard 0.4.6, I have included a combo box at the main window which allows you to select the saved profiles.
Hopefully, it works as you have required. :)

(http://www.boonjin.com/files/wiimote/whiteboard/Wiimote%20Smoothboard%200.4.5%20Beta/Main%20Window%201%20Wiimote.jpg)

Regards,
Boon Jin

I poked around a bit in the GUI and found hot switches for various apps and some alternatives to the outside switches - very useful...


Now I have to give my IR-pen some more "ooomph" as the screen on my laptop is very matte and barely gives any useful reflection - I set up a tablet working space on my desk meanwhile

Everybody wonders why I have a 1 meter high tripod with a wiimote mounted onto it :)
(the downside of being in the middle of an open office landscape)

//UndCon

Try dealing with 30 teenages that see a wiimote and assume they will be playing Nitendo Wii for the lesson!

Benpaddlejones  ;D

Maybe you should get a Wii console to entertain them once a while.
:)


Glad to hear that it works well for you. :)

I have tested the smoothboard in a presentation. Everything seems fine. But i do have a suggestion.

For the balloon notification , it should display a descriptive statement like previous slide, next slide, pen , arrow instead of up , down , control P, control A. It would definitely be a help to teachers or whoever is using it especially since different programs use different key combinations.
 
This could be achieved by having a textbox in the settings which would be displayed instead of the keystrokes.

To help shorten the space area, could implement the tick box for ctrl, alt etc like what is used in macros in microsoft office.

Hope that is agreeable with the rest of the forumers

HAGoh

Hi BoonJin,

Excellent app! Donated a little to your kitty yesterday.

A small query - I am working on a very small screen size (resolution <800x600) and when I try to calibrate the screen the markers go out of the screen! I can only see the top left mark. Is there any way of bringing the calibration marks inside? They work perfectly on my 1024x76 and greater screen sizes.

Thanks again!
Kawaljit

Hi Kawaljit,
Thanks for your donation!

I have not actually tested this on a 800x600 screen. In the whiteboard settings, under the Screen tab, does the resolution show 800x600? Maybe the detected resolution was wrong.

A temporary solution is to click Select Screen Area and select the whole screen.

I will try this out when I have access to my computer.

Thanks.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi Boon Jin,

You were right. It was detecting the wrong resolution (probably because I have 2 split monitors).

Worked fine when I went to single monitor.

Cheers!

ps. any plans to release the source code? :)

I have also detected som anomalies with 2 monitors in use

my laptop has 1920*1200 or something, and my external TFT only has 1280*1024

it seems it depends on wich monitor the program is executed from...atleast it worked when i disabled one of my screens...

sir can i ask question about the programming language you use, is it visual C## or  VB.net?

can you send the source code of having a right click double? like in sir johnny lee blog?

thanks in advance   

BoonJin:

I just came back to your webpage and it looks like you've really been busy. I think it is terrific that you've worked with Jason Smith to integrate the presenter. I use both the whiteboard and the presenter programs separately at work and this integration will definitely help with setup time.

I have a new addition to suggest to the presenter program. Often times we have multiple presenters and a restricted time schedule for each presenter. It is too uncertain to setup the timer for wiimote to help control time. Can you set up a keyboard key that when tapped will buzz the wiimote? This could serve as a private buzz to the presenter from the person behind the laptop to say "Hey, your running long."

Thanks for your consideration.

New user here, having trouble getting this program working.
I'm using a Vishay 6400 IR Pen, OS is Windows XP; Bluetooth Adapter is Rocketfish (from Best Buy).
.NET Framework 3.5 is installed

I keep getting the “No Wiimotes found in HID device list" error.

I am able to use Uwe's program though.

These are the steps I've gone through to "find" my Wii:
1) Click on "My Bluetooth Places" on desktop
2)Select Nintentdo RVL-CNT-01 Peripheral Device
3) Click "Add the selected Bluetooth Device"
4) Skip pairing
5) Press the Wii's 1 & 2 buttons so it shows up in the next search screen.
6) Select the Wii.
7) The Nintentdo RVL-CNT-01 now shows up in a new window, "Entire Bluetooth Neighborhood" with the green arrows facing each other.  The Wii itself has the blue lights blinking now the whole time.
8) Start Smoothboard, get error message.
9) Post on this board!

Any help?
Thanks!
-Matt

MattSacks,

Is your wiimote powered from batteries or from an ac converter?  Because I receive the same message sometimes when running the wiimote from an ac to dc converter.

Matt
If you repost to the "Bluetooth & Connectivity" thread, you will get more support and save hijacking another discussion. As this is not a Wiimote SmoothBoard software issue but a bluetooth issue.

Benpaddlejones :)

may i know how boon jin right click works? is it using 2 IR pen or just 1 IR pen. If just 1 IR pen, how to differentiate right click, dobule click and normal draging of the cursor.

Sorry for my poor english...

The smoothboard only uses one IR pen. I made a toggle for you to switch to right click mode. Then your subsequent click on the screen will be a right click instead of the normal left click.

This also applies to double click.

oo ok thanks. so it means that the toggle is in ur program. Then u nid to select whether u wan to have normal click, double click or right click by selecting the options rite?

yeah

sorry to ask again, is boon jin smoothboard program have higher chance to get better tracking utilization? if yes how did u do that? is it making improvement of the warper.cs? or is it something else?

Boon Jin,
I love the newest version.  However, I have a question about something that sometimes happen when I use it as a whiteboard and presenter simultaneously with 2 wiimotes.  After using it in this manner, once I close out of the application and try to open it back up again, it does not recognize my controllers.  The battery bar is grayed out and I've tried re-syncing the wiimotes and even restarting the program with only 1 wiimote.  Both times this has happened I have had to completely delete the program and re-install it.  I actually tried to just delete the exe file and then copy the original exe file back into the Smoothboard 4.6 folder.  This did not work, but when I deleted the whole folder and reinstalled it, the problem is fixed.  Is there something I am doing wrong when using it as a presenter and whiteboard?  Or have others experienced a similar issue?  Thanks for any feedback on this matter.

Boon jin
I just wanna thank you for all the great work that you do.
i tested this version and its working like a charm  :)
so thank you again. and we're waitng for version 1.0   :D

yahya...

Hi jmatson,

It looks like it is an issue with the settings file.
Did you try deleting the settings file (.ini) in the main folder?

The problem only occurs when you use Whiteboard and Presenter simultaneously?

Hi yahya,

Thanks!

The version 0.4.6 has a bug where you will be unable to Save As the outside screen toggle settings. I have corrected this but did not release the new version yet.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi jmatson,

It looks like it is an issue with the settings file.
Did you try deleting the settings file (.ini) in the main folder?

The problem only occurs when you use Whiteboard and Presenter simultaneously?

[/quote]

Thanks Boonjin, I will delete the file on Monday when I get back to school.  I deleted the whole application, including the settings file twice already to fix the issue.  I wonder if I should download the folder again instead of using the one that is on my hard drive.  Yes, it only does it when I use the Whiteboard and presenter simultaneously.  Thanks for your help.  I'll let you know if this doesn't fix it.

i just wanted to say that your project is so impressive

Hi jmatson,

You are using the version 0.4.6?
If its possible can you send the settings file that gives you the problem? I will try it out on my computer.

Thanks!

Thanks!

Boonjin
Sorry to add more, but...

Can "Left Mouse Click" and "Middle Mouse Click" be added ot the mouse click options in Outside Screen Toogles and "Middle Mouse Click" added to cursor control list and cursor control toolbar.

Middle click is used in many CAD/CAM programs to manipulate the object.

Benpaddlejones :-)

p.s. My last uni task is due in a week, I'm looking forward to strat getting the manual underway.

Hi ben,
I will try this out next week.
Thanks for the suggestion. :)

All the best in your manual! hehe

Regards,
Boon Jin

I noticed an abnormality.  I have only looked at the last 3 pages of the discussion, so I don't know if it's been covered.

I have this set up on my Dell Vostro 1500 XP SP2, built-in Dell Bluetooth.  Widcomm drivers.

I have a dual monitor setup.  The built-in LCD is 1680x1050, and the external monitor is cloned to 1440x900 monitor and projector.  With the old version of wiimote whiteboard with smoothing (don't remember the version) it worked wonderfully. 

On this new version I calibrate it and the pointer shows up 4 inches or so from the LED.  When I turn off the built-in LCD and only use the exteranl monitor/projector it works fine.  I enjoy having the ability to have my email, browser, etc. open on the internal LCD and the workbook, etc. open on the projector. 

HOWEVER, this works so very well in every other way that I have a second lappie next to it with my email and browser on it.  This program is good.  My school will buy me (in 6 weeks or so) a real-live SMART board, and even when that gets here, I'll still use this program, even if only for the wiimote presenter.

Boon Jin,
I just wanted to inform you about what seems to be a bug in the Smoothboard.  It appears that Smoothboard occasionally crashes when the Wiimote is calibrated many times.  I've experienced it after about 14-30 calibrations.  I'm not sure if the speed at which it is calibrated has something to do with the crash, or if it is the number of calibrations that matters.  I'll update this after some more tests.

I have reproduced it on this system at least three times:
Windows XP SP2
Kensington Bluetooth USB Adapter 2.0
WIDCOMM 4.0.1.2400 Stack
Smoothboard 0.4.6

I realize that this probably isn't a high priority as it has not affected too many people yet, however it would be good to remove this bug if possible to help people who are trying to find the best position for their Smoothboard setup as I was.

Thanks for the excellent program and I hope you can remove this minor bug if possible!

Descalzo,

A temporary fix for the inaccuracy would be to set the cursor offset (located under cursor control) to a value that brings it back to the correct position. This might be a pain if your Smoothboard changes position often, but if it stays in the the same position most of the time, it might be an acceptable fix until Boon Jin can address your problem.

Good luck!

Hi,

At the screen tab in the Whiteboard mode, what are the resolutions shown for your screens?
Thanks for the feedback.

Which screen is your primary screen? The screens are cloned?

I am using two monitors too (LCD screen and an external monitor) running at 1680x1050 and 1280x800.

Hi seancron,

Thanks for reporting the bug.
What is the error shown when the program crashes?

Regards,
Boon Jin

The resolutions shown are:
Primary Display 1680x1050
Secondary Display 1440x900 (Selected)

They are not cloned, the desktop is extended, with the start menu being on the 1440x900 screen.

I have tried before on my secondary screen (1280x800) and it works.
The first calibration point appears further in the screen? And the rest could not be seen?

Thanks

No, it just gives me the normal calibration screen.  I click the 4 points with my pen, the screen disappears, and I'm mousing 6 inches below and to the right of the arrow.

When I turn off the internal LCD and only output info to the external monitor/projector, it works.  I don't have to recalibrate or anything.

Maybe I should try uninstalling and reinstalling.  It couldn't hurt.

When the program crashes, I get a generic error message asking me if I want to send the crash data to Microsoft.  If you can think of any part of that dialog that you want me to post, just let me know.

seancron

I will try it out this weekend.
Thanks

The program crashes after the calibration is completed? or during the calibration?

Regards,
Boon Jin

Bug report: When you use the right click over an application button in the taskbar, the menu pops up, but you can´t use the options even when they are showed (to close the app, for example). It´s like smoothboard doesn´t toggle to left click as usual. (Win Vista 32

Superjob!

I offer myself to translate it to spansh and french.

Thanks for the offer. :)

Do you mean that after right clicking on the taskbar, you could not left click again?

Regards,
Boon Jin

You could not left click on the secondary menu only. You can click anywhere else without a problem. Probably is not a big issue, but one to keep an eye on.

Superjob!

Hi!
On my computer, Win XP 32-bit, it works.
We will see if there is anyone else with this issue.
Thanks for the bug report. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

It crashes after the calibration is completed.  However, it does not crash every time, but only after multiple calibrations in a short period of time.

Every time the program crashes, this is the error given:

EventType : clr20r3     P1 : wiimotesmoothboard.exe     P2 : 0.4.6.0     
P3 : 48a5aa78     P4 : system.drawing     P5 : 2.0.0.0     P6 : 4889dec2     
P7 : 3a0     P8 : 1c     P9 : system.invalidoperationexception

Hopefully that helps you clear this up!

seancron

I constructed a new pen, using an actual battery holder instead of wadded-up tinfoil.  I also added one of those clicking lever-switches.  It works all the time, every time now. 

That, coupled with this software (I wasn't aware of it until a couple of weeks ago; I took the summer off from thinking about wiimotes), has made this a truly amazing tool for my classroom.

Anyway, thanks!

P.S.:  Is there a way to calibrate the presenter wiimote?  It seems to jump all over the place, or only reach the bottom 4/5 of the board.

Hi seancron,

Thanks for the error report.

I have tried repeating the calibrations for more than 30 times and still have not experienced the error.

I will try to go through the code and see what I can do with it.

Thanks

Regards,
Boon Jin

Descalzo

Shouldn't need to calibrate?

Where is the permenant IR Source located? Have you got the presenter smoothing turned to max, will make alot easier to use.

Benpaddlejones :)

Here's the deal with my presenter/calibration issue:

I used a different sensor bar and everything works wonderfully.  You were right.

My thoughts:
1 - Why not support TUIO? It would be interesting to include this feature and mostly full (no need for additional programs).
2 - It would be interesting to connect the device directly by the program itself, as http://www.uweschmidt.org/wiimote-whiteboard (http://www.uweschmidt.org/wiimote-whiteboard) does?
3 - Is it possible to be placed more than 2 wiimotes?

Thank you. Your program is very good. At the end of this month will be donating a simple sum. Sorry my bad English.

Hi vbcrayon,

The Smoothboard does not support TUIO yet mainly because the application is meant to be a practical and functional app to be used in an actual teaching/presentation environment. However, multi touch applications at the moment are not mainstream yet and mostly limited to demos only.

As far as I know, the Mac version uses a Bluetooth Java library which handles the connectivity. For Windows, I am not sure of any equivalent methods. I am using the latest Bluesoleil which is very easy to connect to a Wiimote. I just need to press 1+2 buttons on the Wiimote and double click on the a desktop shortcut.

Currently, the Smoothboard does not support more than 2 wiimotes. Most of the users I have known only use a single wiimote. If there is a need to connect more than 2 wiimotes, maybe I will work on it.

Thanks for your suggestions. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

This
http://www.multigesture.net/2008/05/05/tdesk-released/ (http://www.multigesture.net/2008/05/05/tdesk-released/)
and especially
http://www.multigesture.net/2008/05/01/touchlib-speedfix-and-mma-pro-update/ (http://www.multigesture.net/2008/05/01/touchlib-speedfix-and-mma-pro-update/)
are fully functional and are interesting, no?
PS.:I did run the program MMA Pro with this software here:http://code.google.com/p/wiimotetuio/ (http://code.google.com/p/wiimotetuio/)


Library BlueCove (http://www.bluecove.org/), but it seems that only works with BlueSoleil 1.6, 2.3 and 3.2... :'( (http://code.google.com/p/bluecove/wiki/stacks (http://code.google.com/p/bluecove/wiki/stacks))


I know! But if I had two for the Whiteboard (improving the uptake) and another for the presenter could be interesting... Or better, if I have two projectors dividing a video card in a dual screen expanded, each with a wiimote, the presenter may not be installed! :'(


Thank you for the patience and response. :D

Hi,

I have tried the MMA Pro using the Wiimote TUIO and its certainly great. However, it is not a mainstream application that all teachers will use. Currently, my aim is to focus on the compatibility with the major applications that people are using such as Powerpoint, Google Earth, SketchUp and OneNote.

I will certainly develop a support for TUIO in the future maybe in December. It will not be difficult to implement this as the TUIO protocol is quite simple. However, I may release this as another variant of the Smoothboard as the UI is already cluttered. :)

Yea, there are many uses with more than 2 wiimotes but not many people have two or more wiimotes. The problem was with the previous version, when I developed the 2 wiimotes support, not many people actually used two wiimotes (unless they kept quiet about it). :)

I will look into how to make additional wiimotes to be more useful. (will incur more cost for me...heheh)

Thanks again for your ideas.

More suggestions:
1 - Skins and support for others languages;
2 - Java Support (for compatibility with Mac, Linux, etc);
3 - I saw a project (searching) that draws the wiimote in 3D real-time. It would be interesting for calibration.
4 - In the module presenter, creating the option "toogle profile" (to change in real time, without intervention on your keyboard) and the possibility of a profile assign a function of an LED.
5 - Button "Lock" only holds the "Double Click"? Why not the others? There are applications such as ArtRage, which moves the objects using the right click. Or, create a possibility of drag with the right mouse button.

PS.:Sorry to private message! I am very happy with the program! :D

Thanks so much. Johnny Lee's software was ok, but this looks like a much better alternative. It works fine on my 8 year old laptop, but when I try it on my 3 year old desktop, after I open it, it pops up with a box that says "Exception: Request Failed." Please help, I need it to work on my desktop too. Thanks anyway!

tyler

Hi,
Did you installed the .NET 3.5 Framework?

Regards,
Boon Jin

Yea, there are many uses with more than 2 wiimotes but not many people have two or more wiimotes. The problem was with the previous version, when I developed the 2 wiimotes support, not many people actually used two wiimotes (unless they kept quiet about it). :)

I will look into how to make additional wiimotes to be more useful. (will incur more cost for me...heheh)

Thanks again for your ideas.



[/quote]

I use 2 wiimotes every day and it works great!  I just wanted to let you know that your multiple wiimote support was not in vain!  I keep them hooked up as whiteboard + presenter all the time.  Thanks!!

i nt sure whether someone had suggest this, regarding the left click, double click and right click, if u can make them work without using the button, it would be great. Like just using IR pen to determine whether it is  a single click, double click or right click.

This will improve your whiteboard application.

My 1 cent worth of suggestion.

I found three more problems:
1 - As I lost my bluetooth the program gives a critical error and closes;
2 - If I mark "Activate Outside Screen Toogles" once, I can't unmark (only if I reinstall the program);
3 - Sometimes the pen cursor stops. I saw that this happend when presenter is on. I don't know if the problem is this program or using multiple wiimotes.

PS.: I use Windows XP Professional SP3, Widcomm 5.1.0.1100 Bluetooh Stack (or others) and last .Net Framework (3.5 SP1). I tested the program many times in many machines.

i too use 2 remotes at the same time.  i use them both with the whiteboard and then also use one for presenter sometimes. 

I have to admit i have not gotten the mouse part to work with the presenter, but the L and R on the Dpad work, which is all i really need anyways


thanks and i would use 3 wiimotes if it were possible, 2 for the whiteboard and 1 for the presenter.

i am a high school science teacher in CA

This program is great, I use it daily in the classroom with both the Whiteboard and Presentation mode.  I hooked up a 3v DC adapter for both the sensor bar and the whiteboard wiimote, no more batteries, except for the presentation wiimote, which I can turn off the camera / pointer for extra life.  I will have to take picture this week and post up my setup.  YOU HAVE THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING!

One possible edition???

Could you add a hotkey button on the presentation wiimote that would play a WAV or MP3 sound clip?  I think that would be a nice edition to engage students in having some type of sound or sounds with different buttons for positive reinforcement.

Thanks, you are the man!

Thanks for the feedback. :)
Maybe you can launch the WAV or MP3 file directly by choosing the file path to those files. Temporarily it should work in the whiteboard mode (outside screen area toggles). In presenter, it will not be easy to add those files to be launched.

Regards,
Boon Jin

I forgot about the whiteboard offscreen toggles, I will have to try that one.  Thanks again!

I don't know if I'm going to suggest an already present feature in WS046, but I think it would boost the user experience a lot and reduce the gap from big-money solutions.

The bad thing of this project is that you have to deal with a somehow non-intuitive approach of writing: pressing/releasing a button rather than making the tip close or far to the surface, which is what we're used to do since we were children.

Here it is the solution: an optional wiimote, looking to the screen and positioned on the same plane of the screen surface. It will map the "z-index", i.e. a calibration phase should ask to click a single point (or some of them, for more precision) [see note at the end], at some distance from the screen, to tell the software: consider a surface, parallel to the projection screen, distant from it like I'm doing now. Then, to write or whatever, I'll press the pen button to activate the led, and will keep it pressed... how the software will know when I want to avoid writing? Simple, when the tip is far from the screen, i.e. outside of the reference surface, it has to be considered "off", if it's between the screen and the reference surface, it has to be considered "on". I'll try to explain with a picture:

                                        |
                                        |
                                   |    |
                                   |    .
reference_plane____ | ____________       
                                   .                                                             .-----------------,
screen___________(A)____________                             <-- |___WIIMOTE_|



So, you see the screen and a wiimote on its same surface lookng at it; in case (A), the pen tip is "inside" the reference plan, while in the other case (on the left) it's outside. No need to explain which is the case when the stroke has to be drawn, and the one with no stroke on the screen ;)


Is it a feature we already have? If not, do you think it could be added?
In my opinion it would change the experience a lot.

NOTE: the calibration phase should be the same of the one we have now: when we touch the 4 corner points, the "xy-wiimote" will retrieve normal (x,y) info, AND the "z-wiimote" (let me call it like this) will retrieve the "touch-distance" for the 4 (x,y) points. So the smoothboard software will know the reference plane (let's call it the "touch-plane"), which will be parallel to the normal plane and with a little gap from it (the touch-distance), and will work like this:

* xy-wiimote says pen tip is on (x,y) of screen;

* z-wiimote says pen tip is on distance z from the touch-plane (comparing to the z value associated to that (x,y) point)

* is distance z less than a tolerable amount (bigger means "no touch")?

* if yes, simulate touch, otherwise not.

Hi,
Thanks for the idea.
I am already thinking about this method and was planning to try it out after my exams.
It will need a lot of experimentation to work smoothly.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Of course.

Glad you had the same idea, good luck with your exams.

Just installed smoothboard and NET 3.5. When I start up SmoothBoard I get the following error:

See the end of this message for details on invoking
just-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.

************** Exception Text **************
System.FormatException: Input string was not in a correct format.
   at System.Number.StringToNumber(String str, NumberStyles options, NumberBuffer& number, NumberFormatInfo info, Boolean parseDecimal)
   at System.Number.ParseSingle(String value, NumberStyles options, NumberFormatInfo numfmt)
   at System.Single.Parse(String s, NumberStyles style, NumberFormatInfo info)
   at WiimoteWhiteboard.Form1.loadCalibrationData()
   at WiimoteWhiteboard.Form1.Form1_Load(Object sender, EventArgs e)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Form.OnLoad(EventArgs e)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Form.OnCreateControl()
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.CreateControl(Boolean fIgnoreVisible)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.CreateControl()
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WmShowWindow(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WndProc(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.ScrollableControl.WndProc(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.ContainerControl.WndProc(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Form.WmShowWindow(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Form.WndProc(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.OnMessage(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.WndProc(Message& m)
   at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)


************** Loaded Assemblies **************
mscorlib
    Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
    Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.3053 (netfxsp.050727-3000)
    CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v2.0.50727/mscorlib.dll
----------------------------------------
WiimoteSmoothboard
    Assembly Version: 0.4.6.0
    Win32 Version: 0.4.6.0
    CodeBase: file:///C:/Wiimote%20Smoothboard%200.4.6/WiimoteSmoothboard.exe
----------------------------------------
System.Windows.Forms
    Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
    Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.3053 (netfxsp.050727-3000)
    CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Windows.Forms/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Windows.Forms.dll
----------------------------------------
System
    Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
    Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.3053 (netfxsp.050727-3000)
    CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Drawing
    Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
    Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.3053 (netfxsp.050727-3000)
    CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Drawing/2.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/System.Drawing.dll
----------------------------------------

************** JIT Debugging **************
To enable just-in-time (JIT) debugging, the .config file for this
application or computer (machine.config) must have the
jitDebugging value set in the system.windows.forms section.
The application must also be compiled with debugging
enabled.

For example:

<configuration>
    <system.windows.forms jitDebugging="true" />
</configuration>

When JIT debugging is enabled, any unhandled exception
will be sent to the JIT debugger registered on the computer
rather than be handled by this dialog box.


If I hit continue, the program comes up, but it does not see my wiimote. Any ideas what is wrong?

Hi boonjin & vbcrayon,
I have bought an IR array (just waiting), and have some TUIO AS3 example to use with it and fingers with tape on it.
You said you both used MMA Pro with wiimotetuio.
I think it will be really impossible to use a virtual keyboard as the one in MMA.
If I understand how TUIO is implemented, it's always like I'm "pressing the mouse botton", so if I have
to choose one letter I'll have to choose all the letter on the way to that letter,
as there isn't a way to "click" with finger.
Maybe it's possible to change the TUIO.as so that 2 blobs really close means mousedown event? 
Bye
Andrea

Hi Andrea,
I have not tried with any of the finger tracking project.
For the finger tracking in mid air, it will difficult to know where you are actually pressing.

The Wiimote TUIO I tested is actually a whiteboard application and not a finger tracking application.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi Boon Jin,
thanks for the very quick answer.
BTW december is near so maybe you will implement TUIO as you said, and I will test it with finger tracking.
Bye
Andrea

Hi Andrea,

How do you plan to test it with finger tracking?

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi Boon Jin,
You know there are some applications that work with TUIO (Puzzle game, Photo, Creative Multitouching which comes with fla sources, some wall games too).
I think the Keyboard app is impossible to do with finger tracking on the air, you need something that shows the position on the screen and something else that says "click now".
So even if I can imagine to distinct blob to do the action it will be not really user friendly.
Maybe the only way to use the keyboard with wiimote is with an Infrared pen (Tuio not involved here).
Bye
Andrea

wouldn't detecting it in reverse help this. "on" or "reflecting" equal to track and show cursor. "off" or "not reflecting" to be click. just a seed idea. needs a safe way to remove hand from area without continuously "clicking"

I don't know if the following is a bug notification or a feature request: maybe that's already there, but it doesn't work on my setup.
Here it is:

When I end calibration, I can see a still picture of the tracked screen (white screen on grey background), and a "Tracking Utilization" percentage value.

I did expect - or I would like it to be like this - white screen picture and Tracking Utilization value to change (realtime) while I move the Wiimote: this would allow me to easily (visually) find the best position for the wiimote.

Let me know if that's something broken on my setup, or if it's a missing feature, as I can see that picture and percentge value change only whenever I do calibration.

Hi,
Your setup is correct.
The system does not know the changed wiimote position. Therefore, you need to recalibrate each time you move it.
Unless there are 4 IR Leds on the edges of the screen, I might be able to modify the application to continuously auto calibrated.

Thanks for the feedback.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
Is this feature necessary?
Wiimote can only track 4 IR-Blobs so would be unable to track IR-Pen (unless 2 Wiimote?). Plus users would need to create 4x startic IR-Sources, not realistic for everage user.

What may be of value (very limited) is a single IR-Source that once located and identified, if moves X-pixels then a system warning is displayed advising user to recalibrate.

benpaddlejones
2 classes of reports left and the help manual will be my priority until it is finished :)

Hi ben,

Yea.. thats the thing... its not necessary. :)
If it is done is only for during the calibration. The issue is fixing the 4 IR leds which is too troublesome.

Regards,
Boon Jin

The way you understood what I wrote I agree is not necessary.
But I did intend another thing:

I don't really care to track wiimote accidental movements, what I want is to be easily able to find the max tracking utilization, without guessing the right wiimote position and enter into calibration phase over and over like I do now when I change screen size, room, etc.

Positioning 4 infrared leds definitely is not an option.
Let me suggest another solution, tell me if it's possible:

Before calibration, you could activate a checkbox under that little camera preview window to show realtime a red dot of the real position of the infrared led in the wiimote camera view.

This way it would be easy for two persons roughly find the better wiimote position (one taking the pen still in the top left corner of the screen, the other one positioning the wiimote where the red dot is visible near the top left corner of the camera view, then moving the pen around and slightly moving the wiimote to have the best screen coverage would be as easy as everything with realtime visual feedback is).

When a good wiimote position has been roughly established, we'll proceed on normal calibration, sure the 4 points will be all visible by the wiimote and I bet with this method the worst tracking values will be at least 67% ;)

Hi,
The method will require two persons which is still troublesome.
You can use that method at the moment if you set to Presenter Mode. This will show you the real time tracking of the IR source.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Not if "the other person" is replaced by a servo motor controlled support for the wiimote (it could receive data via bluetooth), with control software running on pc and displayed on the screen ;)
We have a PC running for this thing, it can do a lot of nice things he he he.
Of course this would increase building cost a little.

Btw the two person is not a big deal really.



Great! Good to know, I'll have a look to it, thank you.

Just to say the feature in presenter mode is right as I imagined it, very useful!
It's just a bit odd for my purpose that everything is reversed, but I can stay with that.

Thank you

Hi,
That's great!

Your idea regarding using the servo motor sounds cool. :)

Regards,
Boon Jin

Boonjin
Have you seen this: http://wiki.uweschmidt.org/WiimoteWhiteboard/Preferences (http://wiki.uweschmidt.org/WiimoteWhiteboard/Preferences)? The adaptive smoothing looks like  areally cool idea.

benpaddlejones :)

Hello. I like a lot this program. Congratulations.

But it doesn't save two parameter (fundamentals for me):

Second display selection.
Smooth average value at 14 points.

This is a very good tool to do the homework with my children in front the screen.

Greetings from Spain.
K.

Hi,

Thanks for the feedback.
Can you send your settings file to me?

Have you tried deleting the settings file?

I think I made the smoothing to be less than 14 points.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hello, here is my setting file (default.txt):

combo_A,WP62 Right mouse button
combo_B,WP60 Left mouse button
combo_Up,0x26 Up
combo_Down,0x28 Down
combo_Left,0x25 Left
combo_Right,0x27 Right
combo_Minus,0xAE Volume down
combo_Home,0x0D Enter
combo_Plus,0xAF Volume up
combo_One,0xB3 Play/Pause media
combo_Two,WP82 0x11 0x57, Ctrl-W (swich app between screens)
combo_Acc_Left,0xA6
combo_Acc_Right,0xA7
combo_Acc_Fwd,
combo_Acc_Back,
tick_Ir,True
tick_Screen1,False
tick_Screen2,True
tick_Acc,False
txt_Timer1_min,10
txt_Timer1_sec,0
txt_Timer2_min,14
txt_Timer2_sec,0
txt_Timer3_min,15
txt_Timer3_sec,0
txt_Timer4_min,0
txt_Timer4_sec,0
tick_Tflash,False
LED1_T1,True
LED1_T2,False
LED1_T3,False
LED1_T4,False
LED1_Ir,False
LED1_Acc,False
LED1_On,False
LED1_Off,False
LED2_T1,False
LED2_T2,True
LED2_T3,False
LED2_T4,False
LED2_Ir,False
LED2_Acc,False
LED2_On,False
LED2_Off,False
LED3_T1,False
LED3_T2,False
LED3_T3,True
LED3_T4,False
LED3_Ir,False
LED3_Acc,False
LED3_On,False

When I start the WSB 0.4.6 in the configuration tab only is activated Screen 1. But in the default.txt file have:
tick_Screen1,False
tick_Screen2,True
Note: The default.txt is the file selected in the bottom combobox.

The rest of parameters work O.K. I change it and the default.txt file is saved correctly, when restart the WSB 0.4.6, the rest of parameters are updated without problems.

The Average numbers of points for smoothing is in the setting file?

And, yes, I'll delete the setting file and I'll save again. The bug persist.

(Sorry, my english is no very good)

Gracias.
Thanks!
K.

P.D. If you need a spanish traslator for this fantastic program, here I am.

 

Hi Boon Jin,
Great work. But, having some problems with the calibration. Eventough wiimote detects the IR dots (Wiimote Smoothboard 0.4.6 says it), in the calibration screen nothing happens. Need some suggestions. Thank you

Can you see that the ir led is on and working well, by looking it trough a cell-phone camera?

If yes:

if you point the pen directly towards the wiimote and start clicking, are you able to exit from the calibration screen without clicking the ESC key?

Insertnick, thanks for the quick response. :)

Hi eyucel,

If you have tried what insertnick have mentioned, can you check whether the IR dots are drawn in the small black area of the main window?
Maybe the Wiimote was detected as a secondary Wiimote in a two wiimote set up.

Regards,
Boon Jin

hello!Great Boon Jin. :).I would like to continue your project development.Your source code will be published it?Or what can it be? ;)

Insertnick and Boon Jin, really appreciate your help.
Problem you can not see the IR dot in the window, but the text below the window when the text says "Number of IR sources : 1 ". I use you beuatiful program in other computers at work and know how to use it pretty well. I am having this problem at home. Also, at home Johnny's program works well, but I am addicted to your program.

And I want to share my concept of whiteboard with you, because I take it seriously. I and my daughter study at home using a 50' plasma TV (although I have to turn the IR led back to see the wiimote) and a TRUST TB-2100 WIRELESS TABLET. One of us is using the tablet to write something on the screen and one of us in front of the TV with an IR pen. We study using MS Onenote (Thanks to the Benpaddlejones's advice).
 
Insertnick yes I tried your suggestion, but even in front of wiimote, calibration screen does not do anything.

eyucel
I suggest you start another thread specific to your needs so we can help you.

In your thread post the following information

• Wiimote IWB App:
• Bluetooth Stack:
• IR-Led manufacturer:
• Last full Windows update:
• A clear description (inc video if possible of your problem:

benpaddlejones

Was playing with the smoothboard last night, gotta start with great job! really nicely done bit of software.

I was wondering if in the whiteboard+presenter mode it would be possible to make use of the nunchuck? I'd was thinking about having the second wiimote in my pocket, holding the nunchuck in my left hand and using the stick to generate a psuedo pressure signal. (would be like pressing the button on top of a can of spray paint)
would put the pen in always on mode and just use the IR for mouse position, then the nunchuck can do a pressure axis, plus the 2 buttons as straight clicks or modifiers. (alt would be useful)
Guess the left and right of the stick could be put to use too, maybe as the a tilt axis.
Would be truly sweet if it would register as a wacom for software like inkscape :D

Boon Jin:

Thanks for your wonderful effort, we are using this tool with great ease.
Can you please let us know when you plan to release Smoothboard 1.0.

Thanks again.

Hi Boon Jin, (or anyone who would like to help),

I have been using the Smooth board for a while, it works perfectly, the only problem I have had is, it does not work on 1 of my 3 computers, but it works well on the other 2, unfortunately, it is this unlucky laptop computer that I use most often, it is very inconvenient for me to have to change computer when I want to play with the wiimote whiteboard, so I have done some tests with the problem today:

This unlucky laptop runs windows VISTA home premium, the other 2 computers run windows XP and windows VISTA home premium on each.

On the unlucky laptop, I can connect to the wiimote with WiimoteConnect, and Smoothboard can find the wiimote without a problem. But as soon as I've done the calibration, the software crashes and an error message pops up saying "Wiimote Smooth Board has stopped working" blah blah, and quits itself.

After some tests today, I have found some clue:
I've placed the software in different folders at different location on my laptop, I did notice that occassionaly for some unknown reason, when I moved the software to a different folder, it suddenly worked, I could complete calibration and use the whiteboard, but only for a while, if I restart the software again and again, eventually the same problem happens and I could not use it anymore.

Another thing I have found out is, if I do not calibrate but exit the software by clicking on the cross button or using the menu "File ---> exit", the software does not just exit right away as it does on the "good" computers, a dialog shows up saying:

"Unhandle exception has occurred in your application, if you click Continue, ....... If you click Quit, the applicaiton will close immediately

The process cannot access the file ".....\Wiimote Smoothboard0.4.6\WhiteboardCalibration.dat" because it is being used by another process"
And the dialog gives 3 buttons, if I click on Continue, the software will stay on, if I click on Quit, it will close.

See the error message screen shot below:
(http://www.upload2world.com/pic108/upload2world_76bea.jpg) (http://www.upload2world.com)

I never see the same dialog on the other 2 computers, and on the rare occasions when it works on the laptop, if I exit the software it does not show the error either. So I'm pretty sure this is the key.

I'm not sure if any other users have experienced the same problem, I'm not sure either if it is a problem with my laptop or the software, but I hope this could help Boon Jin make the software more reliably.

Thanks again for sharing the great software with us!

Hi dsgclan
It looks like the Smoothboard could not access the folder on your machine. Have you tried placing the application on the root of your C drive?

From your description, the Smoothboard crashes everytime the settings is saved.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi dsgclan

Did you open the smoothboard via folder window? Did you close the window after activating?
I had similar problems before as the window explorer in the background was still accessing the folder hence the application could not write to it. If possible create a shortcut on the desktop and activate from there.

Hope that helps.

hagoh

Hi Boon Jin, Hagoh,

Hagoh is correct, I made a shortcut on the desktop and ran the software from the shortcut, it never crashes again! so it must be the same reason as Hagoh said, if the save folder is opened by explorer the calibration data can not be saved. but I'm curious why it has never happened on the other VISTA computer of me.

I'm not sure if this is a software issue but I think other people may have seen the same problem, if Boon Jin wants to make a FAQ in future, please do remember include this issue in it.

Thanks alot for the help Hagoh, now I don't have to switch computers when using the whiteboard!

dsgclan
I'm 10 steps ahead of you! (well 1 actually but 10 did sound better)

I'm in the process of writng a comprehensive Wiki for Smoothboard. I have alreay included 'Setup Instructions' that will advis ethe best place to store the application is in a Specific folder in '/program files/' then create a short cut to your desktop or start menu.

As soon as it is complete we will be promoting to all!

p.s. don't for get to buy Boonjin a beer for his awesome work you can donate through his home page.  :D

The reason it didn't happen on your other machines may relate to different setups/locations or just luck.

benpaddlejones :)

Hi

Would it be possible to add a 'deadzone' when right clicking?
I use FalconAF flightsim and can't right click because it's impossible to keep my IR pen abolutely still when rightclicking. The program interprets this as a mouse panning commando (holding the right mouse button and slewing the mouse lets you pan/change view in the cockpit).

Keep up the good work!

Maik

Mik Jansen
Try increasing the smoothing this will create your dead zone.

benpaddlejones :)

Hi Maik,

You can try Ben's solution first. :)
Make sure when u click the right click quickly too. This will prevent the dragging.

Regards,
Boon Jin

Hi

Thanks.
Smoothing was already set to '9'. Seems like the problem is in the flightsim itself?
Thanks again.

Maik

Maik
I have really bad shakes (too much caffine). For me to get 100% right click I goto the location pause, then push a little firmer (not punching holes or anything) on the whiteboard to lock my hand and the IR position.

Doing this gives me 100% sucess (I think the pause makes the biggest difference), maybe worth a try.

benpaddlejones :)

Hi Benpaddlejones.

Thanks for your reply.
Rightclicking on the whiteboard in my classroom is no problem. Because those applications are 2D apps? Maybe the problem is the 3D environment in the flightsim? Strange thing is that right clicking in the cockpit using the mouse is no problem. I have to slew the mousecursor a few cm before the panning/looking around kicks in. With the IR pen and using Boojing's software though, it seems like the cursur jumps to another position.

I hope you all understand that I'm very enthousiastic about Wii moting and the effort of all you guys so far.

Cheers,
Maik

Maik
Perhaps you could post a youtube video that compares the same situation between a mouse & a Wiimote IWB. Help us understand the problem more.

benpaddlejones :)

GREAT idea!!
I hope I'll  manage doing that today.

CU
Maik

Hi Ben, yes I will certainly donate for Boon Jin's great job and I look forward to his new release.

Smoothboard Friends

Now smoothboard has its own discussion board!

I have locked this post (When I get time I'll seperate posts to topics). Please post your Smoothboard discussion direct to the thread: http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-smoothboard/ (http://www.wiimoteproject.com/wiimote-smoothboard/)

benpaddlejones :)