DDRK (Dance Dance Revolution Keyboard)

Inspiration

Growing up, we loved playing Dance Dance Revolution and spending hours stepping along to the music. While we enjoyed the game, we also realized how much time we were spending sitting down during school, work, and gaming. DDRK (Dance Dance Revolution Keyboard) was born from the idea of combining productivity with movement, creating a fun way to stay active while working or using a computer.

What it does

DDRK is a keyboard replacement that lets you type using your legs and feet instead of your hands. By sitting down and pressing a sequence of actions similar to Dance Dance Revolution, each combination corresponds to a character, allowing you to type efficiently while staying active and moving.

How we built it

We built DDRK using a combination of hardware and software. For the hardware, we used plywood, buttons, and an ESP8266 microcontroller to create a sturdy and responsive foot operated keyboard. On the software side, we programmed the device using C for the microcontroller and Python to handle input mapping and communication with a computer.

Challenges we ran into

One of the biggest challenges was deciding which microcontroller would work best for DDRK. We experimented with the Arduino Uno, Raspberry Pi 4, and ESP32. After testing, we found that the ESP32 was the ideal choice due to its compact size, versatility, and compatibility with our hardware and software setup.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We’re especially proud of our creative approach to building DDRK using unconventional materials. By incorporating sponges for cushioning and hot glue to secure and connect wires, we were able to assemble a functional and durable foot operated keyboard in a unique and resourceful way.

What we learned

We learned that you don’t need perfect or high end hardware to create something meaningful, what matters most is the drive to bring your idea to life. Creativity, resourcefulness, and determination can overcome hardware limitations and make a project successful.

What's next for DDRK

The next step is to start using DDRK regularly and see how it changes the way we interact with computers. We’re excited to explore its potential for making work and play more active and fun.