Automated Filming Device

An automated filming device with face-traking and remote control for one-person media creators.

A portable and user-friendly filming device that enables solo creators to record hands-free using face tracking, servo-based rotation, and remote control.

Awards

  • Grand Prize (1st Place), HD Hyundai Mechatronics Competition (Prize: KRW 3,000,000)

Background: Rise of One-Person Media

  • Growing demand for content creation without professional filming crews.
  • Key challenges:
    • Abrupt and unstable camera angles
    • Continuous attention required during filming

Product Overview

  • Problem: Existing tools (tripods, selfie sticks) do not support automatic tracking or flexible control.
  • Solution: A “Sunflower”-inspired device with automatic face-tracking rotation (vertical & horizontal) and manual remote control.
  • Value: Hands-free filming, ease of use, portable design.

Hardware

  • Components:
    • Wide-view camera
    • Dual servo motors (vertical/horizontal rotation)
    • Ball transfer unit (reduces friction, distributes weight)
    • Raspberry Pi controller
    • IR sensor for remote input
  • Design features:
    • Assembly-friendly structure
    • Camera placed at lower front to minimize rotation effects
    • Easy disassembly and portability

Software

  • Face Tracking: Detects facial movements and adjusts servo angles with PID control.
  • Remote Control:
    • Key 0 -> On/Off
    • Keys 2/8 -> Up/Down rotation
    • Keys 4/6 -> Left/Right rotation
    • Key 5 -> Stop
    • Key 9 -> Exit
  • Servo Motor Control:
    • Uses a PD (Proportional-Derivative) controller
  • User Interface:
    • Real-time LED indicators confirm recognition and recording status
    • No need to check phone during use
  • Underlying Framework:
    • LIRC (Linux Infrared Remote Control) processes IR signals
    • NEC IR protocol used for reliable key input

Code available in “GitHub repository”.

Usage Scenarios

Left: Device operation video Right: Output film
  • Recording short-form videos (Reels, Shorts)
  • Cooking shows and live demonstrations
  • Online lectures
  • Pet or baby surveillance
  • Exercise and posture correction

Market & Outlook

  • Advantages over competitors:
    • Both vertical & horizontal rotation (others: horizontal only)
    • Manual remote control option
    • Easy assembly/disassembly
  • Expected Benefits: Affordable, portable, and adaptable for various solo creators.

Conclusion

  • Simple & Portable
  • User-Friendly
  • Reasonable Price
  • Attractive Design

Future potential: integration with advanced vision features (motion analysis, semantic recognition) to support broader applications in smart media and robotics.