Checkmate!
This project has been prepared by Kon-Hyong Kim (kk336), Tae Yong “Tim” Chung (tc228), and Kevin Jin-Ho Ham (kh272) for ECE 476 in Spring 2007.
 
 
Results and conclusion
As a whole, we have found that although we did receive an outside recognition chip, we have had difficulty having the chip reliably understand the commands. However, considering that many inputs were entered, this is not unexpected.
 
Results
In whole, the display segment of the project works without flaws. The display creates very little to no flickering at the time of input as well as the time of moves. Every situation that we have perceived has been interpreted properly by the machine. The calculations are very quick, and has no problem working real-time. In whole, given a sure input of the system, we have had no problems with the output of the system.
 
However, the voice recognition segment has some problems with the commands. Given we have used a somewhat insensitive microphone (-45dB/Pa), and that we had to input the commands ourself, it is conceivable that the noisy recording and input has compromised the fidelity of the command. As a result, the chip recognizes the correct command around 60% of the time for eight inputs, but considering that we need for five inputs at a time, it makes it very difficulty to understand a command. Therefore, we have created a series of commands that tend to work better instead of the original series of letters (a,b,c,...) or numbers (1,2,3...).
 
With a better microphone, this would be a very usable program to any user. Since the user inputs their own commands, the recognition chip can adapt to accents and vocal nuances of each user. Also, we show who’s turn it is, making it a simple program to use for chess players.
 
Other than the inevitable vocal noise created by the inputs, this system gives very little interference to other users. It does not give any RF noise whatsoever, or any notable usages of any electromagnetic waves.
 
Conclusion
Although we expected some difficulties with the voice recognition chip, we did not expect the microphone to create such problems. However, with more time, it would have made sense to create some filter design for the circuit shown from previous circuits while using a better (even noise canceling) microphone. If the voice recognition chip receives a better input, it would be possible that it could also distinguish them with less error.
 
Since this project was entirely based on using a microcontroller to control all the inputs, there are no standards or protocols that we have to follow. Our code was based on Bruce Land’s code, but all the additions were purely our creation. No reverse engineering, patents, trademarks, and public code was used for this project. The maximum voltage used in this project is at 9V, and since the user doesn't even have to touch the system, no safety considerations are required.
 
We have considered all situations for one’s safety and health in this project, specified by the IEEE’s Code of Ethics, and found that since there is no open, fatal current or electromagnetic waves emitting from our system, we feel that we have considered and prevent any possible cause for the user’s harm or injury. Our system is all based on our code, and although we have received criticisms and feedback about our system, we have created this without violation of intellectual properties. No bribery was taken from anybody (including potential graders). Some potential harms have been specified below.
 
Some people (about 1 in 4000) may have seizures or blackouts triggered by light flashes or patterns, and this may occur while they are watching TV or playing video games, even if they have never had a seizure before.  Anyone who has a seizure, loss of awareness, or other symptom linked to an epileptic  condition should consult a doctor before playing a video game.
 
Playing video games can make your eyes hurt. One should avoid excessive play, take a break for 10 to 15 minutes every hours, and stop for several hours if your eyes become sore and tired during game play. Also, playing video games can cause motion sickness in some players.
 
Finally, since this is an electronic device, there is always a risk of electric shock and burning. Since the voltage regulator reaches high temperatures during its operation, it may cause some minor burning onto open skin. Many of these risks are similar to those from video games. This site for safety has gotten references from other professional video game manufacturers. We have referenced the Nintendo Wii safety site for this consideration.