“A part Arduino, part Java project that aims to recognize compound whistle commands, e.g. to activate a fan, or even steer a drone.
Story
Last March I went looking for inspiration to start a new, exciting Arduino project. Picky as I am, I wanted something (a) low-cost, (b) original, and (c) with an actual application in the real world.
I went through a couple of mediocre ideas until I saw this guy on YouTube that had recreated Yondu’s arrows from the Guardians of the Galaxy movies. The project focused mostly on the arrows, which launched using fireworks at a single whistle (and probably any loud sound). For me however, I was more interested in actually using complicated whistle commands to control something. Combining this idea with a tiny $10 drone I ordered a couple of weeks ago… you get the idea.
Usage and vision
As of now, I have a working prototype for some basic whistle command detection. There’s not enough precision in it to steer a drone just yet, but enough to activate a fan, or a light switch. Or a music installation. Or a sunshade.
The list goes on, and I’m sure you have some ideas of your own as well. That’s why I’m sharing this project. For those who want to dive straight in: GitHub link. Or read on for more on the hardware below.
Hardware
The program exists of both a Java and an Arduino part, which means you will need to keep your Arduino connected to a computer for the functionality to work. This computer could be a Raspberry Pi, but (especially while testing) it might be handy to have something with a monitor.
Anyway, a comprehensive list of all the items you’ll need:
Computer that can run Java (monitor recommended)
Arduino
USB cable to connect them together
Microphone (simple, see below)
Wires (to connect the mic to the Arduino)
As stated, you’ll just need a very simple microphone component (one that reads decibels). I used the KY-038 which only costs about $2. If you want to go with a more advanced microphone for e.g. increased range, you can, but you may need to rewrite the Arduino part of the code.”