This week, I made several adjustments to the software design in response to our team’s decision to move away from using OpenCV and a camera for board detection.
Since the Sudoku board will now be loaded from a file rather than scanned, I had to modify how the software initializes and manages board data. This required reworking the logic for handling user inputs and ensuring that the projected grid updates dynamically as users interact with it. Additionally, I’ve been considering how to efficiently update and maintain a constantly changing 9×9 grid in real-time as users input values. One possible approach is using Matplotlib for rendering the board updates, but other alternatives such as Pygame, Tkinter Canvas, or drawing functions could also be explored to ensure smooth real-time updates.
Speed optimization is another critical factor, as we need to ensure that changes appear on the projected board with minimal delay. We are currently targeting an update rate of 10 milliseconds, so I will be focusing on implementing a lightweight rendering solution that meets this requirement. I’ve also ordered the projector, and once it arrives, we can begin integrating the hardware with the software and refining the display logic. Another key aspect I’ve been pondering on is the undo/reset functionality, allowing users to revert their actions efficiently. One potential approach is implementing a history stack, where each board state is stored, enabling users to step back to previous configurations.
Health (A):
Our interactive system promotes cognitive health by providing a real-time, projected Sudoku board with capacitive touch functionality and thus offering a more engaging alternative. Mentally stimulating activities like Sudoku can support cognitive well-being and help slow cognitive decline, making our system beneficial for brain capacity and mental health. To ensure safety, we are incorporating proper insulation, minimal exposed wiring, and low-voltage operation to prevent electrical hazards. Additionally, our design enhances welfare by making Sudoku more accessible and intuitive, particularly in educational settings, where it can help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in an interactive, hands-on way.