Ka-Chow
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Date
2024
Authors
Amna Othman
Hadeel Darawsha
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Abstract
Project Ka-Chow explores a novel approach to car racing by blending two distinct yet integrated
experiences. We’ve built a high-tech system featuring the car with two modes: a self-driving
car with autonomous obstacle avoidance and a remote-controlled counterpart. Participants can
choose their racing thrill: navigate a challenging track through the car’s independent decision-
making in self-driving mode, or take the wheel (remotely) and engage in a dynamic, hands-on
experience, The remote control comes in two shapes: a PlayStation controller and a custom design
created with the App- Inventor program. The Project Ka-Chow system enhances the racing
experience through an immersive environment that includes real-time race updates, dynamic
LED lighting, pulsating music, and a timer that determines the winner. The system also includes
a camera that shows the race and streams it to a laptop or mobile app. This allows participants
to watch the race from different perspectives and share it with others, The system also includes
a smart gate that opens when it senses a car in front of it. The car then enters the gate. At the
end of the race, there is a simple parking area where the car can be parked. The car then stops
and ends the race.
What is Ka-Chow? The phrase ”Ka-chow” is a made-up onomatopoeia that is used to represent
the sound of a car accelerating. It is first used by Lightning McQueen in the 2006 film Cars, and
it quickly becomes his signature catchphrase. McQueen uses ”Ka-chow” in a variety of contexts.
He might use it to express excitement, like when he is about to race. He might use it to express
determination, like when he is facing a challenge. Or, he might use it to express his competitive
spirit, like when he is winning a race.