L3Harris: Military Hand Signal Interpreter

Team: Colin Bernhardt, Jeremy Croft, Dylan Hammond, Ryan Palmer, and Michael Van Shaar

Sponsor: L3Harris

Project Description

In military and operations, silent communication is essential. Our glove interprets military hand signs and wirelessly transmits them, enabling discreet long-range communication even when out of sight.

The glove uses onboard sensors and algorithms to recognize gestures and can also serve as a controller for drones or RC vehicles in the field. Designed for durability and simplicity, it’s user-friendly, and optimized for use in harsh environments.

Glove
senors

Design Description

The glove uses various sensors combined with a machine learning algorithm to interpret hand signals:

  • 5 Flex deflection sensors (1 for each finger)
  • MPU 6050 for hand gesture data
  • Custom PCB with ESP-NOW Antenna
  • Easy-access switches to turn glove on/off and toggle between control of drones
  • RC drone cars with ESP-NOW
  • Button to start hand signal
  • RGB LED to indicate glove status
labeled prototype. Starting from top left and going clockwise. Glove Status LED, Power Switch, 3D Printed Box With: Li-Po Battery Custom PCB MPU 6050, Antenna, Flex Sensors, Drone Control Switch, Start Button

Performance Review

Testing was done to ensure glove meets all design requirements including:

  • Signal Interpretation accuracy
  • Transmission range test
  • Battery life test
  • Drone control functionality
Transmission Range Test Results (681 ft.)

Transmission Range Test Results (681 ft.)

Requirements/ Constraints Target Threshold Actual Performance
Military Hand Signals Interpreted 25 signals, with capacity to add more 10 signals 23 signals
Glove Weight 0.25 lb. 1 lbs. 0.304 lb.
Drone Control Toggle control of multiple drones Controls 1 drone Toggle control of multiple drones
Transmission Range 720 ft, signal can travel through obstacles 100 ft 681 ft.
Battery Life 12+ hours, rechargeable 6+ hours , rechargeable 12.3 hours
Glove Cost Under $200 Under $800 $185.36

Conclusion

Person demoing the prototype

Performance

  • The glove is functional and meets all threshold requirements and most target requirements
  • The glove successfully interprets 23 hand signals with an average 95% accuracy

Lessons Learned

  • Prototype design iterations push the project forward
  • Better understanding of electronic part capabilities and limitations leads to more efficient prototyping

Future Work

  • Further design iteration of PCB/holder box for more compact fit
  • Further battery/weight optimization with weatherproofing considerations
  • Optimize machine learning algorithm for higher accuracy