Projects
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Professor | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GreenCan |
Ifesi Onubogu Matthew Wildenradt Michael Obunike |
Sainath Barbhai | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf other1.docx proposal1.pdf |
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| # Project Title: Project Green Can Team Members: - Ifesi Onubogu (onubogu2) - Michael Obunike (obunike2) - Matthew Wildenradt (miw3) # Problem Crushing cans before recycling saves space, providing more recyclable material per container and making transportation more efficient. However, the average person does not have a safe and effective means of crushing cans before recycling. Our project offers a prototype of a safe communal method of crushing cans. # Solution We intend to make an Aluminum can recycling machine prevents recycling of non-empty Aluminum cans and keeps track of how many cans have been recycled for documentation purposes at larger organizations. The machine will use an IR sensor to tell when an aluminum can has been inserted into the machine. When the IR sensor detects a can, a PCB will send a signal to the motor which will crush the can. Once the can is crushed (this is detected by another IR sensor which detects when the crushing platform is leveled with the bottom of the can), a sliding platform-- driven by the motor-- pushes away the can so it slides into a crushed-can collector. then recycled can count is internally incremented. To ensure only empty cans are crushed, our system will monitor two values: the weight of cans placed into the crushing cubicle and the current drawn fro the motor. If it weight exceeds the weight of an empty can or the current crosses an experimentally determined threshold, a red button will glow (indicating to the user that the machine will not crush the can placed inside, sending the machine into a do not accept state). There will be a collection bin for the crushed cans. Its weight will be monitored such that when the bin is full, no more cans will be crushed. The total weight of recycled cans recycled is internally tracked using an Arduino/PCB register. To ensure the can is actually crushed, we will keep the space where the can is placed small enough that the only way to place the can for crushing is upright. That way, there is nowhere for it to move. Additionally, the platform that sweeps crushed cans away doubles as a divider between the space where the can is crushed and where the second ID sensor is placed to sense the crushing platform. At any point in time, the system is one of four states: not accepting cans (either the coins need to be topped up or the collecting bin is full), ready to accept new cans, waiting to start crushing inserted cans. These will be indicated by LED colors. # Parts needed (we will be providing the funds for purchasing these) -IR sensor (part number: IR; Ean: 0682228946447) -PCB -Arduino Uno -Access to a 3d printer for printing the crushing platform, piston and enclosures -Weight Sensor (Module - SKU-SEN0160) -geared motor (SKU 114090046) -15V battery (NEDA 220) -temperature- insensitive resistor (AP1011RJ-ND) # Solution Components ## Can-Counting Subsystem We use one of the Arduino uno registers to keep track of how many cans have been crushed or the total weight of all cans crushed in between servicing sessions (when the collection bin is emptied and the coin dispenser topped up). The input to these trackers are the IR and/or weight sensor. However, the tracker is reset in between service sessions. This data is kept in case an organization wants to keep track of how many Aluminum cans it recycles. ## Can-Crushing System with built-in protection from recycling full cans Once in the can-crushing state, the opening through which one places the can is shut and a platform comes down to crush the can (if the weight sensor beneath the can does not sense that the can is above 15g (the weight of an average empty can). To the left of the can is a mobile platform that sweeps crushed cans into a slit which opens into the collector bin. This sweeper doubles as a partition between the can-crushing space and there another IR sensor is located to know when the can-crushing platform reaches the base of the enclosure. While crushing the can, if the current drawn by the motor is beyond an experimentally determined threshold, the machine goes into the do not accept state. The current is obtained indirectly by monitoring the voltage across a current-sensitive amplifier and dividing it by the resistance of a temperature-inssentive resistor. ## Collector-bin subsystem The collector bin monitors the weight of the collected crushed cans. Once a threshold is reached that indicates the bin is full, the machine stops accepting cans. # Criterion For Success The machine can successfully crush 12 oz. empty cans each time a can is inserted. The machine counts the mass or number of aluminum cans recycled since service sessions. The machine will reject non-empty cans. The motor will not crush cans unless the can-insertion opening is closed and the crush button is pressed. System stops accepting cans after the collector bin capacity is reached. # link to web board https://courses.engr.illinois.edu/ece445/pace/view-topic.asp?id=71830 |
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| 2 | Microclimate: maintaining optimal vapor pressure deficit in a closed area |
Aadarsh Mahra Jeffrey Taylor Smit Purohit |
Ugur Akcal | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Aadarsh Mahra (amahra2) - Smit Purohit (smitp2) - Jeffrey Taylor (jt19) # Problem Indoor agriculture is growing in popularity in recent years, especially as outdoor climates become more unpredictable. Specialty, high-margin crops are currently being grown under totally controlled environments at a commercial scale, yet lower cost systems for smaller, at home spaces are not available for the hobbyist grower. One specific problem with indoor agriculture is maintaining a quality environment for your crops. Vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is the difference between the amount of moisture in the air and much moisture the air can hold when it is saturated. This is influenced through air temperature and relative humidity. # Solution We aim to create a system that uses off-the-self heaters, humidifiers, and fans with numerous sensor-based data acquisition nodes to control the VPD of a closed growing environment, in our case a 2'x4'x6' grow tent. A master controller will act as a scheduler to adjust these conditions as the plants mature. This system should be modular enough to be compatible with all conventionally-powered appliances and flexible enough to fit a variety of different sized environments. A grow tent, humidifier, dehumidifier, heater, and plants have already been acquired. ## Data acquisition nodes The data acquisition nodes will be small, easy to install boards with a microcontroller, external humidity and temperature sensors at minimum. The electronics will be placed in an enclosure to fight humidity. These nodes will be placed at various elevations in the grow environment. The data acquisition nodes will also log target parameters (temperature, humidity) and potentially non-critical parameters (airflow, light) to aid the hobbyist with optimizing conditions for future grows. Data from the nodes will be pushed to a MQTT broker. We are still considering whether to use wireless communication protocols and batteries or ethernet for power and communications. ## Appliance control node(s) The appliance control nodes will sit between the wall outlet and the power cord for the actuators. A relay will be employed with a microcontroller to essentially create 'smart outlets' that can toggle the heater and humidifier. The power for this system will come via an AC to DC converter, and state and control transmissions will occur via MQTT. ## The Overseer The Overseer combines the MQTT broker, a microcontroller, and a human interface device (likely a minimally functional web app on a computer) to act as a the scheduler and controller. Data from the acquisition nodes will be monitored and the actuators will be toggled as needed to meet target environmental variables. The Overseer will have the ability to set different target VPD's for different stages of growth, generally defined by the date. A small control system in The Overseer will be put in place to maintain an acceptable range of VPD set by the user. # Criterion for Success Our main objective with this system is to maintain a stable quality growing environment. This will involve multiple goals: - Keeping the VPD within 10% of target range for 95% of operation - The sensor nodes provide accurate data, log the data, and communicate the data to the overseer - The target values should be able to be set manually (either by a simple web app or programming the values directly) - The Overseer can accurately interpret data from the sensor nodes and activate the appropriate actuator(s) based on set target values - The actuators can be toggled via a MCU and relay |
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| 3 | Bike Tag |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Arne Fliflet | |||
| # Title Team Members: - Jamiel Abed (jabed2) - Dip Patel (dippp2) - Seung Lee (seungpl2) #Problem On UIUC's campus, there is a recurring problem of bikes being stolen on campus. However, it isn't necessarily because they don't have bike locks, it's because the bike locks alone aren't good enough. They're purely mechanical in nature and once they're broken, the robber can ride away with the bike. #Solution overview 1 (!-- This is one possible solution to the problem --!) I'm proposing we create a supplement to a bike lock that will prevent the gears from moving unless unlocked. The reason for this is because if a robber breaks a standard bike lock, they'll ride away with the bike. But if we add a fingerprint unlocked bike lock that attaches to the bike's gears, thus immobilizing it. Then, a robber will be significantly less likely to pick up the bike and run with it. If the lock is broken, the lock that is attached to the bikes gears will still be attached and the gears won't move. The way I measure with a high degree of certainty that a bike is being stolen is by using a built-in accelerometer to detect movement and a gps tracker to alert the user of the bike's location. When the user locks up the bike this activates the accelerometer which will constantly monitor to see if we pass a certain threshold of movement. If this threshold is passed it will trigger the GPS device as well as a suite of anti-theft protection such as lights, and audible beeping, etc. #Solution overview 2 (!-- This is one possible solution to the problem --!) I'm proposing we create a supplement to a bike lock that will prevent the gears from moving unless unlocked. The reason for this is because if a robber breaks a standard bike lock, they'll ride away with the bike. But if we add a fingerprint unlocked bike lock that attaches to the bike's gears, thus immobilizing it. Then, a robber will be significantly less likely to pick up the bike and run with it. If the lock is broken, the lock that is attached to the bikes gears will still be attached and the gears won't move. The way I measure with a high degree of certainty that the bike is stolen is by adding a perimeter module that the user can attach to the bike rack. This sets a active customizable perimeter around the bike rack which will monitor if the bike is detected outside the perimeter. If so, it then turns on GPS tracking as well as the suite of anti theft protections. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 All solutions: The software involved in fingerprint locking/unlocking as well as receiving gps location signals from the LoRa module ## Subsystem 2 All solutions: the physical lock attached to the gears ## Subsystem 3 Solution 1: The IMU, the gps tracker, and the anti-theft protection suite sending signals wirelessly through the LoRa module Solution 2: The perimeter detector, the gps tracker, and the anti-theft protection suite sending/receiving signals wirelessly through the LoRa module # Criterion For Success Criterion 1: The physical lock must immobilize the bike forcing the thief to carry the bike in order to move it. Criterion 2: The fingerprint sensor needs to lock/unlock when a proper fingerprint is scanned Criterion 3: The gps tracker must accurately (to some degree) give the location of the bike when it is stolen and must be power-efficient (to a reasonable degree) Criterion 4: Solution 1 : The accelerometer must correctly detect when a person picks up the bike and runs off with it. Solution 2: The perimeter module must be able to detect when the bike leaves the range. |
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| 4 | Agricultural Drone Refilling System |
Aditi Adya Batu Palanduz Steffi Chen |
Yixuan Wang | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Team Members - Batu Palanduz (batup2) - Aditi Adya (aditiaa2) - Steffi Chen (steffic2) # Problem With many agricultural drones, the sprayer tank needs to be manually refilled rather than having an automated system. While this does not pose a problem if there are a small number of drones, as the fleet size increases, tank refilling will take up more and more time, questioning the efficiency of this current system. This will result in a decrease in productivity as more time will be spent refilling the tanks instead of operating the drones or taking care of other tasks, such as analyzing the data collected from the drones and performing maintenance on various equipment to give a few examples. # Solution Overview An automated refilling system would relieve this issue by refilling the empty sprayer tanks without human intervention. This would free up the farmer and enable the drone fleet to operate more efficiently by reducing the downtime caused by waiting for an empty tank to be refilled. The refilling system would consist of a gantry that contains the refilling nozzle, camera, distance sensor, and pumping hardware needed to align the nozzle to the fill port on the drone's tank and refill it. Additionally, a computer and microprocessor would be needed to handle the image processing from the camera and control the gantry motors, respectively. Visual markers can be used to determine the location of the fill port, as well as the distance to the fill port, using image processing. The distance sensor would act as a backup to ensure that the gantry does not accidentally crash into the drone if the image processing fails to correctly determine the distance to the drone. # Solution Systems **Refilling System** - Tank Subsystem - Has a fluid monitor which signals to the control system if the refilling station needs refilling - Dispensing Subsystem - Has a distance sensor, nozzle, and hose which handles delivering the fluid to the drone - Gantry Subsystem - Uses stepper motors to move the dispensing subsystem in a controlled and precise manner. Has stepper motor drivers to power the stepper motors - Computer Vision System - Uses a Raspberry Pi for image processing and a camera for accurately aligning the dispensing subsystem with the drone’s fill port - Control Subsystem - Controls gantry movement and monitors the refilling process to prevent drone overfilling. Also monitors the tank subsystem’s fluid level and displays a notification if the tank needs refilling **Drone Replica** - Represents a replica of the important parts of the drone: wing/fuselage area around the fill port, fill port, visual markers, tank with fluid level sensor, refill the status display **Power System** - Includes an AC/DC power supply and off-shelf voltage regulator(s) to provide the needed voltages for the subsystems # Criterion for Success Our solution will be able to accurately refill water into the tanks of the drones. The detailed criterion for success is as follows: Precisely recognize the entry port to the water tank and line up to the tank port Make sure there is minimal to no amount of extra spillage around the water tank while connecting, filling, and disconnecting Correctly sense when the tank is filling up so that the refilling system does not overfill it or stop at the wrong time Send a signal to the drone to show that it is done being refilled # Anticipated Difficulties Some of the anticipated difficulties revolve around the integration between the hardware and software aspects of the project. Troubleshooting and debugging the gantry movement and alignment will take a long time as there are many sources of error that need to be accounted for, including slop in the mechanical system, repeatability, and any design oversights/errors. Difficulties with the software aspect might include difficulties reliably identifying the visual markers in different lighting conditions, dirt or other debris obstructing the visual markers, potentially steep learning curves to image processing/recognition, and reducing the computational power required to minimize costs. |
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| 5 | Directional Impact Sensing Helmet (DISH) |
Patrick Sear Ryan Josephson Saathvik Narra |
Ugur Akcal | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| ## Team Members: - Patrick Sear (sear2) - Saathvik Narra (snarra2) - Ryan Josephson (ryanj2) ## Problem In the NFL, many athletes suffer from concussions or other conditions as a result of repetitive, severe head trauma. These events can lead to long-term effects on the athlete’s health and significantly contribute to the reduced lifespan of professional football players. The average professional football player dies younger than age 60 (Source). This problem can be helped by making accurate collision data immediately available to medical personnel for making game-time decisions and helmet manufacturers so that they can make informed design choices based on real, in-game data. ## Solution The Directional Impact Sensing Helmet (DISH) is a helmet that can determine where on an athlete’s head a hard collision occurs, as well as how hard the hit is. This is useful information for both medical personnel, as well as those working on helmet renovations. For the DISH to work correctly, we believe we can group our project into four modules: data input and digestion, data transmission, data reception and visualization, and power. ## Subsystem 1 - Data Input and Digestion This subsystem is responsible for measuring the data. It has an array of force sensors and the IMU. By using an array of force sensors rather than a single sensor, we can pinpoint where a blunt force collision occurs. We plan to use 9 force sensing resistors, specifically the FlexiForce A401 Sensor (https://www.tekscan.com/products-solutions/force-sensors/a401). In addition to these sensors, we will need an OpAmp for each sensor. We can use the OPA1637DGKT (https://www.digikey.com/short/p048q0fq), but any OpAmp should suffice. The IMU will be acting as a trigger, as well as collecting acceleration data. This functionality allows us to only send data to the receiver when it is needed. For now, we plan to use the LSM6DSV16BXTR IMU from Mouser (https://mou.sr/3HrM8e2). The microcontroller would then take the sensor inputs and do some calculations to recognize an impact. ## Subsystem 2 - Data Transmission This subsystem is responsible for sending the data to the sidelines. For this, we plan to use a Zigbee communication regime. The amount of information we need to transmit is low volume and Zigbee’s power consumption is also low, making it perfect for the small batteries that we plan to use. We’d need to buy 2 XBee S2 Modules (XB24CAWIT-001, https://www.digikey.com/short/n3wf0pwd), one for sending data and one for receiving. ## Subsystem 3 - Data Reception and Visualization We will need software to receive the Zigbee communication and digest it into meaningful data. Zigbee will be sending a confirmation signal to the receiver every 15 seconds to confirm the connection is stable. We want to ensure those using the data are able to understand the data in an easy way. There will be a UI display to help disgust the information. We are targeting a 3D model showing a ‘thermal map’ of the collision on the player’s head/helmet, where the point of impact is highlighted in red on the model. The scope of the DISH project primarily includes the helmet, as a Zigbee receiver along with our software should be sufficient for digesting the data. For this reason, we will use one of the two XBee S2 modules along with an Arduino hooked up to a Arduino UNO REV3 for our receiver. ## Subsystem 4 - Power For the battery, we plan on using standard 3V coin batteries. We would use two in series to exceed the 5V recommendation to power the microchip, where we would then step it down to 5V for the rest of our system to use using a 7805 fixed voltage regulator (https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/lm340.pdf). Additionally, we could use a separate 3V coin battery for any instances where 3V is needed. Or, we could use a different fixed voltage regulator to step down to 3V. ## Microprocessor Additionally, the microcontroller that we would like to use is the ATmega328P. This is because some of us have experience using Zigbee with an Arduino, and, with a USB loader on our board, we should be able to program this chip using the Arduino IDE. ## Criterion For Success The key criteria for success are as follows. -The helmet must accurately track the location and severity of each collision. -The data must be transmitted quickly and reliably across the distance of a football field. -The data must be properly visualized on the receiving end such that it can be read, understood, and responded to. -The design does not negatively impact the user’s performance or comfort. If all conditions are met, then our product can be considered successful. ## Alternatives There are some existing alternatives to our design, however, each lacks some key features that our design implements. One such product is the Gridiron Tech Shockbox. It offers a modular solution that can be velcro-strapped into the helmet which records the estimated hit direction and force and transmits it via bluetooth to a smartphone. The key difference here is that using a clustered set of sensors greatly limits its ability to get an accurate determination of the position of the hit on the helmet. Additionally, the company appears to no longer exist, as all of its social media accounts are either deleted or have not been updated in nearly 5 years, so it is not a true “competitor.” The NFL also currently uses a mouthguard in order to collect impact data for their players. This tracker can deliver similar information regarding how the hit impacts the player, but lacks precision regarding the precise location of the contact. The key advantage of our design is that it can determine exactly where on the helmet collision occurred. This data is critical for improvements in future helmet design based on the most common collisions. |
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| 6 | Elderly Homes Health Tracking System |
Aishee Mondal Jeep Kaewla Sanjana Pingali |
Akshatkumar Sanatbhai Sanghvi | Olga Mironenko | design_document2.pdf design_document4.pdf other1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Elderly Homes Health Tracking System Team Members: - Aishee Mondal (aisheem2) - Jeep Kaewla (ckaewla2) - Sanjana Pingali (pingali4) # Problem Many elderly persons may live in elderly homes or retirement homes and have many health related problems. It might be difficult for the staff to be able to keep track of the health of all the individuals and ensure that they are able to keep performing their daily routine without additional assistance. It might be hard for them to track problems immediately due to difficulty communicating and the caretakers would not know when their health is deteriorating until their condition becomes very serious. In elderly homes or retirement centers, it might be hard to keep track of a number of elderly patients, especially when the technology like Apple Watches or Fitbits are not intuitive for older people or customized to their needs and are too expensive. It is not feasible to ask the staff to monitor each individualized fitbit and track it separately without a more centralized system. # Solution Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. In this situation, a cost effective device that keeps track of various health data such as heart rate, temperature, step counts, gps to track where they are, sleep tracking and their daily habits like how many times they visit the bathroom and the duration of time they are in the bathroom, and if there are any irregularities can be a good indicator of their health. Our web application would allow the elderly home caretakers to monitor multiple elderly people at once. A notification would be sent when there is an irregular/ critical heart rate/ breathing activity for a particular person. We could also potentially store past health data points to a database and monitor for any irregularities, or this can be used by doctors during checkups. The subsystems are the health sensors, emitter, WIFI enabled microcontroller, and our web application. # Solution Components ## Health Sensors We would have different sensors to measure the different health parameters and indicators. These sensors will be placed either on some kind of sleeve on their wrist (for heart rate measuring) or a belt on the stomach to get direct measurements. We are planning on implementing the following sensors: Temperature - NTC Thermistor by TE Connectivity Heart Rate and BPM - PulseSensor Sleep Tracking Sensor and Step Count : Accelerometer by BOSCH BMA400 GPS - PA1616D Infrared Detector - to detect infrared radiation by the specific device when it receives a signal from the emitter system Explain what the subsystem does. Explicitly list what sensors/components you will use in this subsystem. Include part numbers. ## Emitter Subsystem This subsystem allows us to keep track of the number of times the bathroom is used and the number of times the bathroom is used. The sleeve would have an infrared detector and the bathroom facility would have two sensors - one at the entrance outside and one inside the bathroom once they enter. Depending on which sensor is detected first, we can see if they are entering or leaving the bathroom and this can help us keep track of the number of times they used it and the length of duration that they used it. ## WIFI enabled microcontroller The various health sensors would send the health data over to the microcontroller. The microcontroller would then send these data to our database using HTTPs requests to our backend via the WIFI module. We assume that our devices would be used in elderly homes or retirement homes, so there would be WIFI available. ## Web Application This web application would enable the staff to monitor multiple elderly at once in one page. This application would be a full - stack web application, using MERN stack (MongoDB, Express, React, Node). We would design the database schema, front end, and backend. If there is an irregular activity, we would send out an alert. This page would be updated periodically close to real-time. # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective. - Send out an alert on the web applications when the heart rate is below a certain threshold or temperature is not within acceptable range for healthy person - Able to measure the data from all the sensors and send it to the microcontroller and store in the database |
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| 7 | Electronic Page Turner |
Adia Radecka Jakubczak Alyssa Bradshaw Javi Cardenas-Magana |
Raman Singh | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Electronic Page Turner Team Members: - Javi Cardenas (jcarde28) - Adia Radecka (aradec2) - Alyssa Bradshaw (akb5) # Problem: Page turning is required when reading a book. This is typically done with one's hands, which can be an inconvenience for those wishing to multitask while reading, such as playing an instrument or using a cookbook while cooking. This is a challenge for both avid readers and people with disabilities. There are hands-free page turners that exist, but most are expensive and typically designed for electronic reading on tablets. # Solution: The solution for this problem will use three different subsystems: actuation, sensors, and power. Our solution is unique because it is a hands free page turner for a physical book that can turn an unlimited number of pages. # Solution Components: ## Actuation Subsystem: - Stand with a Lever/Arm - This would be controlled by servo motors to turn the pages - Two would be needed to flip pages forward and backwards - Adjustable levers to accommodate different sized books ## Power Subsystem: - Uses batteries to power required subsystems and allow for portability ## Sensor Subsystem: - Button (easy) Using a foot pedal to turn the page forward and backwards _If we are able to meet the minimum requirements for success, we will try to implement the following bullet points:_ - Audio (medium) Using a microphone to turn pages forward when “Next” is said and backwards when “Back” is said - Vision (hard) Computer vision would be used alongside a camera to flip the page. It would be placed on the bottom left and right corners near the book and use some sort of facial cue in order to turn the page. _If we are able to meet the minimum requirements for success, we will try to implement the following subsystem:_ ## Processing Subsystem: - A screen that displays the total pages flipped and how many pages were flipped in one sitting. This can help bookmark where you left off. - Include a timer to keep track of how much time you have read i.e. if someone wants to read for 30 mins the device can make a sound letting the user know the time is up. ## Criterion for Success: - A stand for the book with levers for turning pages in the book - Has to be able to flip one page at a time, forward and backward - Should be able to go through all the pages in a book - Must be able to flip the pages using a foot pedal |
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| 8 | Backpack Buddy - Wearable Proximity/Incident Detection for Nighttime Safety |
Emily Grob Jeric Cuasay Rahul Kajjam |
Zicheng Ma | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Backpack Buddy Team Members: - Student 1 (cuasay2) - Student 2 (rkajjam2) - Student 3 (eegrob2) # Problem The UIUC campus is relatively a safe place. We have emergency buttons throughout campus and security personnel available regularly. However, crime still occurs and affects students walking alone, especially at night. Staying up late at night working in a classroom or other building can lead to a long scary walk home. Especially when the weather is colder, the streets are generally less populated and walking home at night can feel more dangerous due to the isolation. # Solution A wearable system that uses night vision camera sensor and machine learning/intelligence image processing techniques to detect pedestrians approaching the user at an abnormal speed or angle that may be out of sight. The system would vibrate to alert them to look around and check their surroundings. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Processing Processing Broadcom BCM2711 SoC with a 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 processor or potentially an internal microprocessor such as the LPC15xx series for image processing and voltage step-down to various sensors and actuators ## Subsystem 2 - Power Power Converts external battery power to required voltage demands of on-system chips ## Subsystem 3 - Sensors Sensors Camera - Night Vision Camera Adjustable-Focus Module 5MP OV5647 to detect objects in the dark Proximity sensor - detects obstacle distance before turning camera on, potentially ultrasonic or passive infrared sensors such as the HC-SR04 Haptic feedback - Vibrating Mini Motor Disc [ADA1201] to alert user something was identified # Criterion For Success The Backpack Buddy will provide an image based solution for identifying any imposing figure within the user's blind spots to help ensure the safety of our user. Our solution is unique as there currently no wearable visual monitoring solutions for night-time safety. potential stuff: Potentially: GNSS for location tracking, light sensor for outdoors identification, and heartbeat for user stress levels camera stabilization heat camera |
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| 9 | Affordable universal controller for upper limb prosthetics |
Kathleen Beetner Leanne Lee Minwoo Cho |
Nikhil Arora | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Affordable universal controller for upper limb prosthetics Team Members: - Minwoo Cho (minwooc2) - Leanne Lee (leannel2) - Kathleen Beetner (beetner2) # Problem Around 3 million people worldwide need a prosthetic limb replacement, 2.4 million of which live in developing countries. Even though the World Health Organization estimates that only 27-48% of upper limb amputees have some form of prosthetics, the market for these prosthetics reached $720.86 million and is projected to grow 4.6% over the next year. At a price point of $50,000-$500,000, the exorbitant cost makes them inaccessible to many patients. One reason for the high costs is the lack of common parts between the various types of prosthetics. Each prosthetic part is designed separately on its own to fulfill the unique needs of a patient and repairs are costly, time-consuming, and can only be done by a prosthetic professional. Accumulation of cost continues to escalate for children with prosthetics who need to not only buy replacement parts but also buy entirely new prosthetics with age. In addition, existing prosthetics still struggle with electromagnetic interference that creates inaccuracy in market sEMGs (surface electromyograms). # Solution Our solution will focus on building an EMI-shielded standalone sEMG device that can be fitted to various designs of prosthetic devices. Because our solution aims to be universally compatible, manufacturers can focus strictly on the mechanical design of the prosthetic and patients can select any compatible prosthetic without compromising functionality. A modular sEMG device also allows easier replaceability and repairability when a prosthetic gets damaged or when children grow out of their prosthetics. Instead of buying an entirely new prosthetic, a prosthetic-user only needs to buy and replace the mechanical component of a prosthetic. Prosthetics can even be built using a 3D printer, saving time and reducing cost of materials. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: EMG Sensor Surface EMG electrodes (sEMG)(H124SG Covidien) will measure the EMG signal of the upper limb. The sEMG sensor will be connected to the PCB design responsible for filtering and amplification of the EMG signal. ## Subsystem 2: Processor We will use a microcontroller (ATMEGA328P) that uses MathWorks simulink support package for digital signal processing. ## Subsystem 3: Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Copper shielding(https://www.adafruit.com/product/1168) will cover our PCB design to reduce the outside noise and interference. Typical readings in our circuit will be around 20 uV so our design in various environments should be able to function properly with little to no interference. ## Subsystem 4: Output prosthetic A 3D printed hand will be used to exhibit the compatibility and practicality between a prosthetic and removable EMG device. ## Subsystem 5: Power We will use a 3.7V rechargeable lithium ion battery (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/adafruit-industries-llc/2011/6612469) to make the device as portable as possible. # Criterion For Success The EMG device should be easily removable and replaceable. Our EMG device should be able to correctly interpret muscle activity for the motions below. We will mount sensors onto the forearm and categorize the signal patterns through Matlab to identify motions on the working hand. This is the primary goal of our project. We will build a rudimentary hand prosthetic for prosthetic demonstration and convert the readings into prosthetic movements. Our design should be able to accurately mimic the following motions: Palmar supination (turn wrist so palm is facing up), Palmar pronation (turn wrist so palm is facing down), Complete digit flexion and extension (closing and opening all fingers). Total budget is strictly less than $400. |
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| 10 | Distributed Species Tracker |
Jonathan Yuen Max Shepherd Ryan Day |
Hanyin Shao | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Title Distributed Species Tracker # Team Members: - Ryan Day (rmday2) - Jonathan Yuen (yuen9) - Max Shepherd (maxes2) # Problem Invasive species are organisms that find their way into an environment of which they are not a native. They are capable of inflicting great harm on their new ecosystems leading to the death of native species as well as significant economic damage in some cases. Removing invasive species is an incredibly intensive and difficult task. Some common methods include chemical control, bringing in new predators, or even uprooting parts of ecosystems in a desperate attempt to prevent the spread of the invasive species. The burden of controlling invasive species often falls on civilians who are called to look out for the invading species in order to provide intel on their location and help prevent any further spreading. Endangered species are creatures that are on the brink of extinction. A lot of conservation efforts are made in order to restore the population of the species, including gathering the animals and breeding them in a controlled environment, as well as monitoring them via a tracking chip or satellite. # Solution We propose a network of nodes that, once deployed in the wild, can capture images and process them to determine whether or not a species of interest has been in a certain area. The nodes will communicate with one another in order to compile a report of all of the places and times that an animal was seen. This can be an improvement on satellite imaging that is hindered by trees and overbrush and is also an improvement over the manual scouring of wilderness that is often used in the hunt of invasive and endangered species. The network, if deployed for long enough, can offer valuable data and present a comprehensive view of a species’ behavior. This semester, we aim to provide a proof of concept for this idea by building a small set of these nodes and demonstrating their ability to recognize an animal and log its whereabouts in a way that is redundant and node-failure-tolerant. In order to do this, we will fit each node with a camera that will take images to be processed. If the species being monitored is detected, its location will be sent over the network of nodes via a routing subsystem. A power subsystem will supply and regulate power to the modules in each node. A sensor subsystem will provide GPS data and infrared detection. Therefore, the significance of the PCB in this project is that it hosts the MCU which is responsible for routing and communication protocols as well as all of the logic relating to the sensors and power modules which will also be fitted on the PCB. All in all, we have a solution to a problem that we are really excited about turning into a project for this semester and are very determined to complete. # Solution Components (Revised portion) ## Subsystem 1 : Routing This subsystem will establish the network over which the nodes will communicate. These nodes will replicate local GPS data amongst themselves. We will currently plan on using LoRa as that best fits our use case as a network that would require low-power, long range communication in a real-world scenario. Components: LoRa transceiver (RFM95W); Antenna; Microcontroller ## Subsystem 2 : Camera and Classification This subsystem will be responsible for gathering and classifying images. It will communicate with the MCU. We are now planning on using an ESP32 module to handle our image processing instead of a Raspberry Pi. This is to make our design more compact and also to save significant amounts of money. When choosing an MCU, we are prioritizing RAM, a suitable camera interface, and processing power. The ESP32-WROOM-32E is a good guess for now and is cited to have been used for each of our use cases. As soon as this RFA is approved, we plan on purchasing an MCU and a dev board to start testing out functionality. Components: Camera; Microcontroller (interface) ## Subsystem 3 : Power This subsystem will handle the supply and regulation of power to the modules in each node. Components: Li-ion battery; Battery controller; Boost/buck converters; USB charger/port ## Subsystem 4 : Sensor This subsystem will gather GPS data and send it to the MCU. It will also measure infrared radiation, signaling that a creature has passed by the module. This will trigger the camera to take a picture. Components: GPS chip; Infrared Sensor; Temperature Sensor # Criterion For Success Data redundancy - We should be able to demonstrate that data gathered on any arbitrary node is reflected on the rest of the nodes in the network. Detection accuracy - We will demonstrate that the detections made by our camera subsystem are accurately logged (demonstrate that if a target appears in front of a node that the sighting is logged at the correct location). Battery life - We will determine a realistic and practical minimum battery life based on the hardware components we end up using. |
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| 11 | Automatic Bike Sensing Lanes |
Hann Diao Jeremy Arroyo |
Sarath Saroj | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf other2.pdf other3.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Automatic Bike Sensing Lanes TEAM MEMBERS Jeremy Arroyo (jarroyo4), Hann Diao (hannd2) PROBLEM Cycling around campuses and in major urban centers has become increasingly dangerous with the increase of population in these areas. Despite many attempts to make conditions safer for cyclists and pedestrians alike (i.e. cycling lanes), hits and near hits continue to be an issue. This can mainly be attributed to pedestrians’ lack of awareness when commuting due to having headphones on or being preoccupied with their cellphones. SOLUTION The solution we propose is an addition to existing bike lanes (simulated bike lanes for proof of concept) that will detect a cyclist and shine a light to make pedestrians and cars aware of their presence. SOLUTION COMPONENTS SUBSYSTEMS Bike Detection We will utilize proximity sensors to detect the presence of a bike in the bike lane. These sensors will be spaced out roughly 2 meters apart with attached LEDs. Upon sensing a bike, the following LEDs will light up to indicate an incoming bicycle. Inter-sensor Communication We would utilize an MCU to process the incoming signals from the proximity sensors. The MCU would then communicate with the corresponding LED units to light up in accordance with the bike’s location. We would also potentially process the acceleration of the bike to have LEDs light up according to the speed at which the bike is moving. Power We have two ideas in regards to powering this system. The first would be to utilize some arbitrary power source (i.e. a battery system) to emulate connecting our system to the grid or streetlights. This would be viable if we extended the scope towards integration within actual city infrastructure. The alternative would be to utilize some form of solar to power our LEDs as LEDs have a relatively low power consumption. CRITERION FOR SUCCESS A low-cost, and easily scalable system Proficiently detects moving bicycles and lights LEDs accordingly Variable LED display based on speed of bike |
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| 12 | heat exhaustion device for construction workers |
Danny Schaub Tongli Zhou Zackary Haycraft |
Prannoy Kathiresan | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Heat Exhaustion Detection Team Members: - Zack Haycraft (Zackary3) - Tongli Zhou (tongliz2) - Danny Schaub (dschaub2) # Problem When working in certain industries such as factory production lines, construction and power plants high heat environments increases the risk of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, which puts the safety of the workers at risk. Generally, by the time the person is aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, it is too late. We have talked to some construction workers near campus, and most don’t possess any wearable device that tracks their health information. Besides, most smart watches on the market are more suitable for heartrate and calorie tracking during exercise, rather than tracking and extracting reliable information critical to construction workers in more extreme environment. # Findings There are scientific findings that indicate the relationship between sweat chloride concentration and whether the individual is experiencing heat stroke: HS patients have sweat chloride concentration of around 5.3 mmol/L, while it is higher than 20 mmol/L for normal people. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1658361213001029) # Solution To provide this extra layer of safety the device will be a wearable device that the individual will be able to wrap around their arm and as the individual sweats, the sweat will pass through a duct and the conductivity of the sweat will be measured. A temperature sensor will also be used for temperature correction of the sample. This will provide a measurement of the electrolytes present in the individuals sweat and if the electrolyte concentration reaches below an established limit the device will light LEDs to indicate to the individual and other workers in the area that the individual needs to be removed from the environment and replace electrolytes. As an extra precaution a gyroscope sensor will be used to measure the individual’s activity level as well as a temperature and humidity sensor to monitor the hazardous level of the outside conditions. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1- Power Supply -Battery powered, 2 AA batteries ## Subsystem 2-Conductivity Sensor -The conductivity sensor will be made using two electrodes in conjunction with an AC signal and the voltage drop across the probes will be proportional to electrolyte concentration. Stainless steel electrodes should suffice -H bridge using switching MOSFET for AC signal (VO617A ) ## Subsystem 3- Microcontroller -The microcontroller will take in the temperature and conductivity data to calculate salt concentration and actuate the indicator light when the threshold is crossed. (Raspberry Pi pico) ## Subsystem 4- gyroscope -The gyroscope will estimate the work done by the worker and provide supplemental data to the raspberry Pi for analysis. -accelerometer and gyroscope sensor (MPU-6050) ## Subsystem 5- IOT device -Use an IOT device to collect information from the sensors on the wearable band, use them to determine when to allow the worker to take a break for rest and get electrolytes. ## Subsystem 6- Temperature and humidity sensor -This will provide the user with a visual indication of the danger level of the environment utilizing the heat index -heat index information (https://www.nalc.org/workplace-issues/body/OSHA-All-in-One-Heat-Guide.pdf) -sensor (DHT11) # Criterion For Success -The device can accurately measure the electrolyte concentration of a sample within +/- 10% error -the device can accurately measure the temperature of a solution sample within +/- 10% error -The device will illuminate when presented with a solution below the concentration threshold |
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| 13 | Safe Crib With Auto Hazard-Detection |
Bob Yuan Feng Zhao Xinlong Dai |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Xinlong Dai (xinlong3) - Feng Zhao (fengz3) - Yuhao Yuan (yuhaoy3) # Problem As we all know, parents with babies at home are most worried about the safety of their babies. Even at home, they always worry that when dealing with things in another room, the baby will not accidentally climb out of the crib or bump into the head of the bed, which is easy to hurt and easy to make the child cry. So we wanted to design a smart crib that uses ultrasonic sensors to detect the baby's posture and prevent accidental falls. In addition, the system monitors whether the baby is crawling on the bed to inform parents that the child is awake, though not crying. The system alerts parents in other rooms to prevent further dangerous movements. According to the posture and danger level of the baby at this time, the LCD screen plays the corresponding image warning to effectively make parents understand the situation in the baby's room to avoid more risk. # Solution We will use ultrasonic sensors to detect the baby's position and relative height on the bed to determine whether the baby is climbing the barrier, crawling, or rolling. In the case of the former, the master control system recognizes the action as dangerous and sends the information to a receiver in the other room, which is equipped with an OLED screen and speakers to warn of the danger. For the latter, the main control system considers it a warning action and acts similarly but switches to display a different set of alerts and a more soothing tone. In this way, parents can clearly understand the baby's current state. # Solution Components ## Power Subsystem We will use multiple 5V battery sets to supply the power for all the components. ## Ultrasonic Sensor Subsystem The system will use HC-SR04(Ultrasonic Sensor) to detect the baby's current height through several ultrasonic sensors installed at the top of the guardrail on one long side and one short side of the bed. Because when lying down or climbing, the baby's height generally does not exceed the height of the guardrail. The system can consider the baby in a standing posture if the ultrasound is blocked. At the same time, multiple groups of ultrasonic sensors installed on the guardrail on both sides of the crib can also measure the distance between the baby and the guardrail at this time to precisely locate the baby on the crib. In addition, there is a set of sensors at the bottom of the guardrail, which is at the same height as the mattress. Their role is to measure the distance between the guardrail and the baby to determine the relative position of the baby in the lying position. ## Central Analysis and Data Transmission Subsystem Suppose the distance between the guardrail is too close and the ultrasound sent by the set of sensors at the top-guardrail height. In that case, the ATMega328p (MCU) uses both information to determine that the baby is at risk of trying to climb the guardrail, causing an accidental fall. The MCU will consider it as a dangerous condition. If the sensors at the top are not blocked, but the bottom sensors detect frequent movement of the baby, the MCU will consider it as if the baby is awake and crawling, which is a warning condition. Either way, the MCU sends a corresponding signal via the Wi-Fi (ESP8266) or Bluetooth (HC-06) module to the receiver next door. ## User Interface Subsystem Depending on the type of signal received(warning/danger), the ATMega328p (MCU) in the receiving end of the other room will send the corresponding notification image information and audio information from the internal storage to the OLED and speaker. Meanwhile, the user can use the knob to adjust the speaker's volume, display brightness, and reset the notification by pressing the button. ## Audio & Image Subsystem According to the received audio and image information, we use 8O3W-JST-PH2.0-N speakers and Hosyond B09C5K91H7 OLED to play warning alarms and text messages. Additionally, we use the DAOKI TS-US-115-CA microphone to collect the sound around the crib. This microphone can adjust the threshold and accept sound that is higher than a specific volume. This will allow the user to detect only the baby’s crying. # Criterion For Success Our default test environment involves placing a crib in a room the size of a traditional baby's room and placing random baby-sized objects on the bed to simulate the baby's situation in various locations. The actual testing “crib” should be a flat table with four supporting feet, and fences should protect the four sides of the table. The height of the guardrail/fence is unified on all sides, and all are 24 inches (60.96 centimeters). These parameters are determined based on a normal ten-month-old baby whose body length reaches 28.75 inches (73.3 cm). If we lift the baby-sized object above the bed, which is at the height of the top of the guardrail, the sensor detects the ultrasonic block and sends the signal to the master control board, which then sends the warning signal to the receiving end of the other room. The screen on the receiving end also shows the warning signal of the baby climbing the guardrail and playing the alarm. At this point, the safety warning is successful. In addition, the same test object was moved irregularly across the bed in a second test. If the sensor detected this pattern, it judged that the baby had woken up. In the same order, screens in other rooms showed that the baby had woken up and another bell sounded. In this case, the reminder feature is successful as well. |
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| 14 | HAND CRANK QUICK-CHARGE TEMPORARY CELL PHONE ENERGY SOURCE |
Achyut Agarwal Rubhav Nayak Shreyasi Ray |
Matthew Qi | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| ## Team Members: - Rubhav Nayak (rubhavn2) - Shreyasi Ray (ray17) - Achyut Agarwal (achyuta2) # Problem In the current connected age, it is quite important to ensure that our electronics are powered at all times, but oftentimes we hear of situations where people are unable to or don't remember to charge their devices. Solutions for emergency power do exist in the form of portable power banks but it's yet another device to remember to charge, and hand-cranked chargers available on the market tend to be large and bulky built for survival scenarios, which is too overkill for the urban youth who just forget to charge their devices and don't happen to be around a wall plug. Furthermore, all the existing devices currently charge the battery via hand crank and that in turn charges the device. This is not efficient as it adds extra points of energy loss (in the form of heat) and also reduces the overall battery health. By implementing a sort of bypass through a switch we can help retain battery health as the user can bypass the battery and directly charge their device and although it increases the complexity of the circuit we believe that this is a good tradeoff as in an effort for environmental preservation reducing battery degradation is important. # Solution Our solution is to build a hand-cranked charger, much like the ones you find on the market, but without all the bulky extra survival features. Plus, we want to incorporate a small battery that can hold around 15-20 minutes of hand-cranked charge, just as a backup for when the individual would not be able to crank the charger. This allows us to keep the size of the device at a minimum, with the whole apparatus being around the same size as a large phone. The crank would prioritize the charging of any load connected, and only when no load is connected, it will charge the battery. Similarly, the battery would discharge only when there is a load connected and the crank is not in operation. This product runs completely off the grid. The battery only charges via hand crank and the product will only have one output. # Solution Components - Crank - Foldable, 3D Printed - Motor - Pololu Micro Metal Gear Motor (12V 120rpm, choice between BLDC Motor or Brushed Motor) exact motor to be decided as per discussions. - Gearing mechanism - 3D Printed (to spin the motor at optimal RPM while requiring a reduced input) - Full-wave rectifier ROHM RFN6T2DNZC9 - (if we use BLDC Motor) - Schottky Diode - ROHM RB095T-40NZC9 (As a stoppage diode to ensure the battery doesn't feed into the dynamo) - 1000mAh battery - ASR00012 - Boost converter - LiPower Boost Converter - USB-A female connector - KUSB-6-3-4-3-6-1-10 - Capacitor - Generic (used as a filter, appropriate capacitance to be determined after ensuring the optimal crank rpm) - Switch - Mouser 490-DS04254201BK-STR -(positioned near the crank - allows us to choose between direct crank or battery output) - 7-segment Display - Adafruit ADA1002 - Microcontroller - Arduino (to display the charge value of the battery + optimal crank speed) ## Subsystem 1 Our entire electromechanical side of the project comes under one subsystem. We connect the crank to the motor via the gearing mechanism. Here, we have two choices for the motor. We can either use a brushed PM DC Motor, which gives us a DC output but with low current, or we could use a more expensive brushless DC motor, which will give us a higher current throughout but can end up becoming bulkier and more expensive, as we then need to add a rectifier and capacitor to ensure the output is DC. The motor is then connected to a diode in forward bias from where it goes to the battery and to the 5V voltage regulator parallelly. The regulator then goes to the USB-A female output. We use the USB-A output for two reasons. The first is to ensure that we can charge a wide array of devices, and the second is to make use of the USB protocol's safety features. Most phones can recognize when plugged into a USB port, and if they notice that the power from the USB port is unreliable/fluctuating, it can choose to not charge the device. While this may seem like a disadvantage at first, it will allow us to confidently test our product without worrying about the condition of our phones. We will incorporate a switch that will control if the hand crank will charge the battery or directly supply power to the USB output. This is to reduce energy loss and also preserve battery health. The switch would essentially direct the flow of current in two places a) the hand crank’s output, b) the device’s input ## Subsystem 2 This is technically integrated into the first subsystem, but we treat it as a secondary system because it doesn't directly deal with charging. This subsystem will make use of a microcontroller to read the voltage of the battery and display its charge level on the 7-segment display like the Adafruit ADA1002, and when the crank is operational, it will display the voltage of the crank. Since the crank speed must generate 5V or higher to be able to provide power, the display will be able to give that information to the user so they know whether to speed up or they can slow down (By displaying F for faster and S for slower). This display will be powered by a battery at all times. It can also help tell the user how much of the battery is charged. # Criterion For Success We will deem the project successful if we can achieve the following: - Hand crank charges the phone - When the phone is not connected, the hand crank charges the battery - When the crank is not used, the battery charges the phone - The 7-segment display outputs the values of crank speed requirements and battery level We will also attempt to keep the size at a minimum, but we also realize that size optimization will not be easy. Even with a larger size, our portable power bank achieves something no other product in the market does with a seamless switch from battery to crank. Our power bank will be more efficient and compact than those on the market. |
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| 15 | Bike with Fully Electric Architecture |
Ellie Urish Jason Zou Willard Sullivan |
Matthew Qi | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Bike with Fully Electric Architecture Team Members: - Jason Zou (jasonz3) - Ellie Urish (adamwu2) - Willard Sullivan (wrs3) # Problem Most current electric bikes use a combination of chain and motor to provide pedal assistance. The issue with these systems is the complexity of dealing with chain and motor simultaneously. The complexity of these systems that are constantly exposed to the elements means that durability is a concern. This problem is especially prevalent with bike sharing programs, where easy maintenance and care is essential to keeping costs down. # Solution Our idea is to construct an electric bike/moped that is fully powered by electricity. What this means is that instead of using a chain to transfer human power to the wheels, the pedals would instead be connected to an electric generator which would then feed a motor for the wheels. While this configuration is not as efficient for driving the wheels as a direct chain would in terms of just human power, what this configuration allows for is a very simple mechanical design with few moving parts. This could allow for very little maintenance, as there is no longer a chain or gears to take care of and most of the components can be sealed away from the elements. Going to an all electric system would also allow for regenerative braking to be implemented more elegantly, allowing for energy to be recovered during braking and a better experience on hilly terrain while also reducing wear on the brakes. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Generator The purpose of the generator is to generate electricity from the mechanical rotation of the pedals. We aim to use a 24-48V generator, which is connected to a gearbox that is then connected to the bike’s crank/pedals. One of our main goals is to make this system as durable as possible, so the generator subsystem will be completely enclosed. Example Generators: - 300 Watt Bicycle Generator 3/8" Belt Drive Pedal Power Pulley Dynamo 12V-48V AC DC Wind Turbine Generator PMA 350W 500W 1200W 1800W 2000W 2500W 3200W ## Subsystem 2 - Drivetrain The drivetrain subsystem will be connected to the controls/electronics system to power the rear wheel. The drivetrain will consist mostly of a motor that is connected to the rear hub with controllability via potentiometer from the handlebars. We plan to use a 48V DC motor, ideally controlled with an off the shelf motor controller. Example Motor Controllers: - https://www.americancontrolelectronics.com/dcr600-60 - https://www.americancontrolelectronics.com/dcr600-6 Example Motors: - https://www.amazon.com/Ebike-Front-Electric-Bicycle-Conversion/dp/B0BCK5JTVD/ref=asc_df_B0BCK5JTVD/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=598359160004&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9148421633832203042&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022196&hvtargid=pla-1875774232469&th=1&psc=1 (integrated into wheel) ## Subsystem 3 - Controls/Electronics The controls/electronics system will have the ability to route the generative power to the drivetrain or to the battery (if included in this project). With the assistance of a PID controller, our subsystem can be more efficient and limit the power consumption of the drivetrain subsystem. Furthermore, as an additional goal for our project, we aim to have this subsystem control the “launch control” of the bike so that the user does not have to struggle with starting at rest. The electronic system will be based on a custom PCB with a microcontroller and output pins to connect to other components. It will control charging/discharging of the battery, speed of the drive motor, and reading the potentiometer to determine desired speed. # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective. ## Main Goals - Obtain at least 40% efficiency with the power transfer from the generator to the drivetrain. This is tested by turning the pedals a known distance at a known speed, and then measuring the distance traveled by the rear wheel. - The rear wheel can move at a top speed of 10MPH, tested by holding the bike on a stand and measuring the RPM with a tachometer. - Fully battery powered operation - bike can begin moving from a full stop using battery power without pedaling necessary ## Reach/Extra Goals - Regenerative braking - charging battery from free spinning of rear wheel - Integrating different drive modes - Integrating a super capacitor buffer system |
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| 16 | Footballytics - Tracking geolocation, orientation, and speed of a football |
Akshay Bapat Varun Venkatapathy Vibhav Adivi |
Xiangyuan Zhang | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Footballytics Team Members: - Student 1 Akshay Bapat(aabapat2) - Student 2 Varun C Venkatapathy(vcv2) - Student 3 Vibhav Adivi(vadivi2) **Problem** American football is a sport comprising two teams of eleven played on a field of 120 yds by 53 and ⅓ yards. One team attempts to either score touchdowns or field goals by either passing or running the football, an oval ball. The offense, or the team attempting to score the ball, has four downs to move ten yards from where they started. If they accomplish this goal, they get a new set of downs based on where they were stopped. This is decided by the referees, specifically the line judge, and is done through sight. This has some obvious issues, such as the accuracy of the referee in question. In this day and age, when other sports are able to do away with much of the inaccuracy in deciding scoring, we believe that there should be a solution to the most important part of football and the subjectivity surrounding it. **Solution** Sensors in the football will be able to provide real-time data and will have the ability to publish the data to remote servers. The data will include 4 key data measurements including geolocation, pressure, acceleration and gyroscope sensors which will allow us to track free-fall and impact during game play, as well as its precise location. We also want to measure the speed of throws, grip strength of the person throwing and catching. The final part is using some sort of indicator to make sure without a doubt that the requirements have been met for either a new set of downs, or touchdown. **Subsystem 1:** _Sensor suite_ This subsystem consists of a 9 axis motion sensor(accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer), GPS, and pressure so that we can track metrics of different plays and throws while simultaneously always knowing where the ball is Components: ESP32 Microcontroller 6 system ICM-20602 9 system BMF055 GPS system using ESP32 UltraWideband technology with 3 anchor points to track location down to the centimeter. (DW1000) **Subsystem 2:** _Power and Charging_ Lithium ion battery that we can charge using a power strip Components: PRT-13851 Lithium Ion Battery and Charger **Subsystem 3:** _Actuation_ Variable leds that light up depending on downs, out of bounds or touchdowns Components: LEDS Grove - Variable Color LED Green for touchdown Blue is for passing the down marker. Red is for out of bounds **Criteria For Success**\ Checkpoint 1: We want the tracking system enabled to check positioning on the football field\ Checkpoint 2: include the accelerometer and gyroscope tracker\ Checkpoint 3: air-pressure sensor to track pressure of the space within the ball \ Checkpoint 4: Ensure general weight and size parameters conform with NFL standards ____________________________________________________________________________ |
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| 17 | TipsyTracker |
Akash Patel Eshrit Tiwary Sumedh Vemuganti |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # TipsyTracker # Team Members: - Akash Patel (ayp2) - Sumedh Vemuganti (sumedh2) - Eshrit Tiwary (etiwary2) # Problem Irresponsible drinking is a widespread problem, especially among university students. Unfortunately, many people often lose control of their alcohol consumption simply due to a lack of awareness of how much they have consumed. To combat this issue, we propose to create TipsyTracker , a system that promotes responsible drinking. The system will remind partygoers to periodically check their blood alcohol content (BAC) levels and alert the host if a guest's BAC level exceeds a certain limit. This way, partygoers can stay informed of their alcohol consumption and make more informed decisions, while the host can ensure that the party remains safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. By implementing this system, we hope to create a more responsible and enjoyable party experience for all. # Solution TipsyTracker will revolve around a device that uses a breathalyzer to measure the blood alcohol content (BAC) levels of partygoers. Upon arrival, guests will be given an RFID-enabled wristband/card which will be scanned by the device's built-in RFID reader when they initiate a breath test. The device is powered by an ESP32 microcontroller and is connected to a Raspberry Pi, which acts as a server. Once a partygoer initiates a test, the microcontroller will send the RFID and breathalyzer data to the Pi. The Pi hosts the necessary software and databases, handles communication between the device and registration station, and sends notifications to guests and the host. Guests will receive notifications at set intervals to test their BAC levels, and if they fail to do so within a set limit, the host will be notified. Additionally, if a guest's BAC level exceeds a certain threshold, the host will also be notified. The goal of this project is to promote responsible drinking at social gatherings and make them more enjoyable and safer for everyone. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 (RFID Identification Subsystem) - on PCB This subsystem will be responsible for identifying each partygoer or patron by reading their RFID-enabled wristband/card when they initiate a breath test. This subsystem will be connected to the ESP32 microcontroller which will wirelessly send this data to the Raspberry Pi, which correlates an RFID to a user’s name and phone number. Subsystem 1 Modules: MFRC522 RFID: https://www.amazon.com/SunFounder-Mifare-Reader-Arduino-Raspberry/dp/B07KGBJ9VG ESP32-WROOM: https://www.amazon.com/ESP-WROOM-32-Development-Microcontroller-Integrated-Compatible/dp/B08D5ZD528/ref=sr_1_5?crid=395FTKAFRGYNK&keywords=ESP32-WROOM&qid=1674683343&s=electronics&sprefix=esp32-wroom%2Celectronics%2C120&sr=1-5&th=1 ## Subsystem 2 (Breathalyzer measurement subsystem) - on PCB This subsystem will be responsible for measuring the BAC levels of the partygoers/patrons by using a breathalyzer. It will be connected to the ESP32 microcontroller and will communicate with the RFID identification subsystem to ensure that the test results are associated with the correct partygoer/patron. A light will turn green when the device is ready for a partygoer to test their BAC. This subsystem will be connected to the ESP32 microcontroller, which will send the data to the Raspberry Pi. Subsystem 2 Modules: MQ-3 sensor: https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-Detector-Ethanol-Detection-Raspberry/dp/B09HY1H6VW/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2FOU5M2NX4THQ&keywords=MQ-3+sensor&qid=1674682965&s=electronics&sprefix=mq-3+sensor%2Celectronics%2C106&sr=1-2 ESP32-WROOM: (same as subsystem 1) Green LED: https://www.amazon.com/MCIGICM-Circuit-Assorted-Science-Experiment/dp/B07PG84V17/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZEO8CF2AHP8P&keywords=led+circuit&qid=1674685556&sprefix=led+circui%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1 ## Subsystem 3 (Notification and data management subsystem) - off PCB This subsystem will be responsible for handling the communication between the device and the registration station, as well as sending notifications to partygoers/patrons and the host. It will be powered by a Raspberry Pi server, which will host the necessary software and databases, and will handle data storage, analysis and management of the entire system. It will also send notifications to partygoers/patrons at set intervals to remind them to test their BAC levels, and notify the host. Subsystem 3 Modules: Raspberry Pi: https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-4-model-b/ # Criterion For Success The following high-level goals will be needed for our project to be effective: 1. Accurate measurement of BAC levels: The device should be able to accurately measure the BAC levels of partygoers. This can be tested by comparing the results of the device with those of a calibrated breathalyzer. 2. Effective RFID scanning: The device should be able to scan and store the data of guests' RFID-enabled wristbands/cards efficiently, with no errors in data storage or retrieval. This can be tested by placing a colored sticker on each RFID card, scanning various RFID cards in rapid succession, and ensuring that the color and the RFID number match. 3. Accurate notifications: Messages to partygoers and the host should be accurately sent. This can be tested by monitoring notifications. We can test by timing notifications, and ensuring they are being sent at correct intervals. 4. Updated interface:The Web-interface should reflect updates to party goers who test their BAC levels. This can be tested by conducting many user tests and seeing if the page updates accurately. |
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| 18 | Phone Audio FM Transmitter |
Dan Piper James Wozniak Madigan Carroll |
Abhisheka Mathur Sekar | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Phone Audio FM Transmitter Team Members: James Wozniak (jamesaw) Madigan Carroll (mac18) Dan Piper (depiper2) # Problem In cars with older stereo systems, there are no easy ways to play music from your phone as the car lacks Bluetooth or other audio connections. There exist small FM transmitters that circumvent this problem by broadcasting the phone audio on some given FM wavelength. The main issue with these is that they must be manually tuned to find an open wavelength, a process not easily or safely done while driving. # Solution Our solution is to build upon these preexisting devices, but add the functionality of automatically switching the transmitter’s frequency, creating a safer and more enjoyable experience. For this to work, several components are needed: a Bluetooth connection to send audio signals from the phone to the device, an FM receiver and processing unit to find the best wavelength to transmit on, and an FM transmitter to send the audio signals to be received by the car stereo. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Bluetooth Interface This system connects the user’s phone, or other bluetooth device to our project. It should be a standalone module that handles all the bluetooth functions, and outputs an audio signal that will be modulated and transmitted by the FM Transmitter. Note: this subsystem may be included in the microcontroller. ## Subsystem 2 - FM Transmitter This module will transmit the audio signal output by our bluetooth module. It will modulate the signal to FM frequency chosen by the control system. Therefore, the transmitting frequency must be able to be tuned electronically. ## Subsystem 3 - FM Receiver This module will receive an FM signal. It must be able to be adjusted electronically (not with a mechanical potentiometer) with a signal from the control system. It does not need to fully demodulate the signal, as we only need to measure the power in the signal. Note: if may choose to have a single transceiver, in which case the receiver subsystem and the transmitter subsystem will be combined into a single subsystem. ## Subsystem 4 - Control System The control system will consist of a microcontroller and surrounding circuitry, capable of reading the power output of the FM receiver, and outputting a signal to adjust the receiving frequency, in order to scan the FM band. We will write and upload a program to determine the most suitable frequency. It will then output a signal to the FM transmitter to adjust the transmitting frequency to the band determined above. We are planning on using the ESP32-S3-WROOM-1 microcontroller given its built-in Bluetooth module and low power usage. ## Subsystem 5 - Power Our device is designed to be used in a car, so It must be able to be powered by a standard automobile auxiliary power outlet which provides 12-13V DC and usually at least 100W. This should be more than sufficient. We plan to purchase a connector that can be plugged into this port, with leads that we can wire to our circuit. # Criterion for Success The device can pair with a phone via bluetooth and receive an audio signal from a phone. The Device transmits an FM signal capable of being detected by a standard fm radio The Device can receive FM signals and scan the FM bands. The digital algorithm is able to compare the strength of different channels and determine the optimal channel. The device is able to automatically switch the transmitting channel to the predetermined best channel when the user pushes a button. |
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| 19 | Profile Based Shower Head |
Abhi Gupta Bhavana Ambatipudi Manav Modi |
Akshatkumar Sanatbhai Sanghvi | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal3.docx proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Team Members: - Abhijun Gupta (abhijun2) - Bhavana Ambatipudi (bhavana4) - Manav Modi (manavm2) # Problem: Sharing a shower with multiple individuals can often lead to conflicts and difficulties. One common issue is the inability to remember the desired position or temperature settings of the showerhead. Additionally, some individuals may have difficulty determining their preferred temperature due to the challenges of adjusting the knob. Another group who may encounter issues with the showerhead are those who are disabled or of shorter stature, as they may have difficulty reaching and adjusting the showerhead to their liking. # Solution: Our objective is to address some of the challenges associated with shared shower spaces by designing a showerhead that can save and recall individual user profiles. This includes information such as preferred showerhead position, water temperature settings, and average shower duration. By saving this data for each user, we aim to enhance the shower experience. For instance, by selecting a user's profile, the showerhead can automatically adjust to the last recorded position for that user. Additionally, our showerhead design would allow users to view the current water temperature and their preferred temperature setting. By learning the average shower time for each user, the showerhead can also encourage water conservation by suggesting shorter shower durations. Our showerhead would incorporate various elements such as sensors for detecting shower head position and water temperature, motors for positioning the showerhead, a controller for managing profile data and shower head movement, a display for displaying profile information and water temperature, and a sturdy physical structure suitable for most shower setups. # Solution Components: ## Subsystem 1 (Sensor Subsystem): The Sensor subsystem will consist of an accelerometer to collect data on the position of the showerhead in relation to Earth’s gravity, a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the water flowing through the shower head, and a water flow sensor to detect if the shower is on so we can measure the shower duration. The sensor subsystem will also consist of a communication device to communicate with our remote control subsystem and send the data acquired from the sensors. These sensors will all be placed in the physical subsystem in a separate compartment to avoid water leaking into the sensors. Accelerometer: ADXL345 https://www.amazon.com/Adafruit-ADXL345-Triple-Axis-Accelerometer-ADA1231/dp/B01BT4N9BC/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=accelerometer&qid=1674700283&sr=8-6 Temperature Sensor: DS18B20 https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11050 Water Flow Sensor: 1597-1516-ND https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/seeed-technology-co-ltd/114991177/7387420 ## Subsystem 2 (Positioning Subsystem): The showerhead will also have a motor to add 1 rotation axis to the shower head to position it to the user’s preference. This motor will attach to a joint in the shower head and move the joint up when rotated one direction and vice versa to move it down. The chosen motor will have high torque and very low speed so that customization for the user is easier. Our option for a motor is the DC motor as it has a high starting torque. Motor: JGY-370 https://www.amazon.com/Bringsmart-Turbine-Electric-Self-locking-JGY-370/dp/B07FD98N8J/ref=sr_1_2?gclid=Cj0KCQiAw8OeBhCeARIsAGxWtUwBLTCz0UFqaNAR19nPhGkZedCicuhl85gGYoDwjRzrCFuRCj0fOkYaAt70EALw_wcB&hvadid=384322822234&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9022196&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=b&hvrand=15085001523702390373&hvtargid=kwd-385077632050&hydadcr=8434_9618941&keywords=low%2Bspeed%2Bmotor%2Bdc&qid=1674701110&sr=8-2&th=1 ## Subsystem 3 (Physical Showerhead Subsystem): For the physical subsystem we are planning on making a 3-d printed shell to make room for the sensor and positioning subsystems as well as space for the actual shower head. The 3-d printed showerhead will mimic most other showerheads in design but include space for sensors and motors to move the showerhead. ## Subsystem 4 (Remote Control Subsystem): The remote control subsystem will communicate with the sensor and positioning subsystem and will have a raspberry pi to store user data and display it to the display subsystem. The remote control subsystem will also have a control to move the position of the shower head. A joystick will be attached to the remote control subsystem that will be able to communicate with the positioning subsystem and move the physical showerhead to the desired location. The display and remote control subsystems will be disconnected from the actual showerhead and communicate with the showerhead using another communication device. Raspberry PI : SC0510 https://www.microcenter.com/product/643085/pizero2w?src=raspberrypi Communication Device: 1597-101990981-ND https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/seeed-technology-co.,-ltd/101990981/16570945?utm_adgroup=Seeed%20Technology%20Co.%2C%20LTD.&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_DK%2BSupplier_Tier%201%20-%20Block%202&utm_term=&utm_content=Seeed%20Technology%20Co.%2C%20LTD.&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw8OeBhCeARIsAGxWtUwG39PuVvJmQc2wMEMMwPOC3TXsFfnmmdyhkOCejJKQ6LNssnmC9gYaAvDWEALw_wcB Joystick: 108-THB001P-ND https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/c&k/THB001P/11687191?utm_adgroup=Navigation%20Switches%2C%20Joystick&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Product_Switches&utm_term=&utm_content=Navigation%20Switches%2C%20Joystick&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw8OeBhCeARIsAGxWtUzvjqUbI3eIGeC2eboiJbUuwhIz2HG6AQwAD6CnUdDfo5_368jM08AaAi_yEALw_wcB ## Subsystem 5 (Display Subsystem): We will attach a display to the remote control subsystem so that information collected by the sensor subsystem such as duration of shower, water temperature, and position can be displayed to the user. The display can also be used to show what user is active and allow users to select their profile when beginning the shower. The display and remote control subsystems will be disconnected from the showerhead itself and able to be placed anywhere in the shower. Display: NHD-2.4-240320CS-CTXI#-FT https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/newhaven-display-intl/NHD-2.4-240320CF-CTXI%23-FT/5209661?utm_adgroup=Optoelectronics&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Supplier_Newhaven%20Display%20Intl_0757_Co-op&utm_term=&utm_content=Optoelectronics&gclid=CjwKCAiAoL6eBhA3EiwAXDom5jzzoB8yeT2P9AaCyGGPeD4VBZHH3EnTSgczHfHkxkdWIvbkh_4DmhoCLcgQAvD_BwE # Criterion For Success: To be successful our shower head should be able to save multiple user’s data and display the user’s average shower time, user’s preferred temperature, and current water temperature. Furthermore our showerhead should have accurate temperature readings making it easier for the user to set the dials to their desired temperature. The showerhead should also be able to record its position and recreate its position after any movement. With all these features, the main goal of our project is to enhance the user’s shower experience. |
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| 20 | Beer Pong Table |
Keith Bevans Nishita Amberkar Spencer Gallagher |
Zicheng Ma | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other2.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Title Beer Pong Table - Just a bit more “EXTRA” Team Members: - Keith Bevans (kbevans2) - Nishita Amberkar (nda6) - Spencer Gallagher (swg3) # Problem Describe the problem you want to solve and motivate the need. The game of beer pong is immensely popular amongst young adults, however, there are a few common issues people face when playing beer pong: First, the inconsistencies with the amount of liquid in each cup and its respective positioning. Throughout the game, the amount of liquid constantly varies due to multiple factors such as spills, the moving and falling of cups, however, it is essential to the game play that the cups are always 1/3rd full. Additionally, the movement of cups in the game is always constant, however, the positions can often alter from the ‘centering’ giving the opponent an advantage in terms of aim. Second, it is easy to lose track of wins, score and whose turn it is resulting in fights and a negative experience overall for all the players. In conclusion, we want the players to have a fun, positive experience while playing beer pong alongside maintaining the accuracies and rules of the game. # Solution Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. Our solution is to build multiple extensions to a beer pong table, using sensors to control liquid levels, LEDs to communicate to the user about game score and perks, and a screen for user input to keep track of who is next through a bluetooth application installed on a mobile device. By incorporating technology into beer pong, the problems proposed can improve user experience creating an immersive experience for users and provide simplicity and fairness to all games. # Parts Needed (Things we will buy) Arduino UNO REV3 [A000066] DAOKI HX711 Weight Sensor Module Kit Digital Load Cell Weight Sensor A/D Module 5KG Portable Electronic Kitchen Scale for Arduino with 3.5mm x 1.35mm Power Cable, Scale Display Module RGB LED Matrix Panel 64×32, 2048 DOTS Pixels 3mm Pitch,Compatible with Arduino/Raspberry Pi Pico/ESP32,Allow Displaying Text, Colorful Image, Animation, Adjustable Brightness Chainable Design DIYmall 5PCS 16 Bits RGB LED Ring 16 X WS2812 WS2812B 5050 Lamp Light with Integrated Drivers Individually Addressable for Arduino SunFounder IIC I2C TWI 1602 Serial LCD Module Display Compatible with Arduino R3 Mega 2560 16x2 # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Weight + IR Sensors We will use weight sensors to calculate the weight of the cup with the liquid. If the weight shown is more or less than 1/3rd the level of liquid, there will be an indication through the Arduino. The weight required for 1/3rd the level of liquid will be measured beforehand and consistently be compared by the Arduino. Additionally, the IR sensor will sense when the cup is on top of it or removed. The LED pods will help position the cups in the right manner and direction as they will be statically placed on the table. The Arduino, holistically, will keep track of the weight of the cups and its positioning. The input to the Arduino will be the weight and IR sensors. ## Subsystem 2: User Interface - Hardware The first stage of user interface will be done with data being shown to the user in the form of LEDs. We should be able to relay most information in the form of an LED change If the cup has too much water or too little water we can relay the info to players using color. When a cup is scored in and removed, we can change the score using a main LED board to indicate how many cups remain on one side of the table. Along with this we can also use a mini led board to show “Next Player” and their name to show the line of next players. These methods of showing the user interface are simple for the user to understand. ## Subsystem 3: User Interface - Software The software part of the user interface will essentially require a UI-UX for the score, wins/losses, and the “Next Player”. The players should be able to enter their team name and the names of each player using bluetooth or another entry method. We will run algorithms on the Arduino to provide information to the hardware on what needs to be shown to the user. # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective. The weight sensors can successfully detect when the liquid is lesser or more than the level of liquid required. Additional: LEDs will tell the player if the liquid is lesser, more, or the perfect amount of liquid within a valid range The IR sensors can successfully detect the position of the cups, and notify the user when a cup is out of position. An accurate score is calculated and shown on the user interface. Allow user input on the user interface such as adding names. The next player and past winner is shown on the user interface. The start and end of the game is displayed on the user interface, and syncs with the table in the form of animations on an LED board. |
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| 21 | Automatic Water Bottle Filler |
Abby Mohan Jakub Migus Priyank Jain |
Nikhil Arora | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Automatic Water Bottle Filler Team Members: - Priyank Jain (priyank3) - Abby Mohan (ammohan2) - Jakub Migus (jmigus2) # Problem In normal liquid dispensing and water bottle filling systems, the process requires the user’s attention and constant manual activation of the device. This may require the holding of a button, the action of pushing the bottle against a sensor for a specific amount of time, or holding the bottle in front of a sensor until it is full. If the user gets distracted or is unable to provide that attention (blindness or lack of motor function), liquid may spill or the bottle may not be filled enough. # Solution Our goal with this project is to make an automatic water bottle filling station. Our device senses when a water bottle is placed underneath it, begins filling the bottle with water once a start button is pressed, determines when the bottle is full and shuts off automatically. After placing the bottle on a platform and pressing a button, the user can walk away knowing their bottle will be filled accurately. # Solution Components ## Sensing Component This subsystem utilizes multiple sensors including an ultrasonic sensor to measure the water level and a light-based sensor to determine the height of the bottle. ## Control This subsystem connects the sensors to the water system. It receives data from the sensors, compares the water level height to the height of the water bottle, then decides to either begin, continue, or stop dispensing water. ## Display/Interface System An LCD display will show instructions for the user and will display simple messages. A few push buttons will be included for manual filling and selection of desired amount of liquid (ex. Half bottle, full bottle) ## Water System This subsystem utilizes a water tank attached to a pump and tubing, which transport water to the dispenser. # Criterion for Success The device… - detects a water bottle and accurately measures the height - monitors the water level in the bottle - stops filling when a desired water level is reached If there is no bottle/ the bottle is removed, the device stops filling water. |
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| 22 | Automated Frozen Pipe Burst Prevention System |
Benedicta Udeogu Ethan Zhang Neha Vagvala |
Prannoy Kathiresan | Arne Fliflet | design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Title: Automated Frozen Pipe Burst Prevention System Team Members: - Neha Vagvala (vagvala2) - Benedicta Udeogu (budeog2) - Ethan Zhang (ethanz2) # Problem Frigid temperatures like those during the winter here in Illinois run the risk of inducing frozen & thus burst pipes. Just this past winter break, my roommates and I got an email regarding several units on our floor that had unfortunately had their pipes burst as a result of the winter storm. This is an issue that plagues not only college students like us, but many residents across the country. An estimated average of over 250,000 homes each year will suffer damage from frozen and burst pipes. The damage is estimated to be up to $400-500 million each year. To further highlight the fragility of frozen pipes, even a rupture as small as an 1/8th of an inch can release up to 250 gallons of water per day. # Solution Current methods to help alleviate this issue have proven insufficient and/or have left room for improvement. Common current methods to prevent frozen pipes include maintaining a set temperature of at least 55 degrees fahrenheit in the home, running a trickle of cold water from faucets with exposed pipelines, and adding insulation or heat cables along the pipelines. Other methods such as the use of antifreeze are considered harmful for the environment, wildlife, and humans. The former 3 are a good place to start but what happens when a resident forgets to set the temperature or leave the faucets running? Even if the resident were to take these measures, the utilities costs that one would incur and energy wastage that would occur appears to be excessive and inefficient. In addition, situations where the resident is away from the residence for an extended period of time and cannot return in a timely manner further exasperate this issue. Our proposed solution is creating an automated system that alerts the resident via a notification to their smartphone that a pipe is at risk of freezing and therefore further at risk bursting if left unattended. The notification subsystem will be triggered by the subsystem involving the temperature sensor. In addition, a third subsystem will be utilized to open a lever that would allow cold water to trickle through the pipe. The combination of these two features enables the resident the ability to take further action by buying them time as well as automating certain preventative measures such as allowing water to trickle through the pipe which helps prevent the pipe from freezing. # Solution Components 1) DHT22 Temperature & Humidity Sensor 2) ATmega328 chip + Custom PCB 3) Raspberry Pi 4) Android or iOS Mobile Device 5) I2C OLED Display 6) Gallon Size Water Dispenser 7) Electrically-controlled (solenoid) Valve 8) Plastic Bottle 9) Plastic Tubing 10) Swaging Tool ## Subsystem 1: Temperature Sensing For this subsystem we will be utilizing the DHT22 Temperature & Humidity Sensor. The ATmega328 chip will be soldered to our custom PCB, with appropriate pins/leads for the connections to the sensors and the Raspberry Pi. This microcontroller unit will process the data from the sensor and determine whether or not the threshold temperature has been crossed (55 degrees fahrenheit). The data will be sent to the notification subsystem to alert the resident of the risk of the pipe freeze and to the I2C OLED Display so that the temperature can be visually monitored in real time. ## Subsystem 2: Notification System The notification system will enable the device to send notifications via the Internet to the user’s mobile device, in order to alert them that freezing is imminent and the valve has enacted safety measures. The Raspberry Pi will connect to the wifi network and act as a server, and the ATmega328 microcontroller PCB will plug into it via USB. When the PCB-connected sensors are triggered, it will communicate with the Raspberry Pi, which will then send a text message (or push notification) to the user’s mobile device. ## Subsystem 3: Lever Control To prevent the water from freezing, we plan to implement a motorized spigot that will release water into a plastic bottle (representing the pipe) for a small duration of time. A non-conductive material like plastic is preferred as it allows for more accurate sensor readings. Online sources (How to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing - Consumer Reports) suggest a safe temperature to avoid pipes bursting is 55° F. Using this as a threshold temperature, when the microcontroller PCB receives output below 55° F from the DHT22 Temperature & Humidity Sensor, the electronic valve that controls the lever of the spigot will move to release water into the bottle for a set period of time (~ 5 seconds). By doing so the water temperature in the pipe will be warmer and allow the user more time to implement a more assured method like turning up the thermostat. The user will be provided routine warnings; however, water will be released to the pipe only for the first 3 warnings as to not further increase chances of frozen pipes if the user doesn’t take action in time. # Testing A large container with water representing a reservoir will have a motor attached to the lever. For testing purposes, we will release the water in 5 second intervals once every minute for 3 minutes (Originally once an hour). At the time the water is being released, the user will get a notification with a message that the pipes are at risk of freezing. After 3 attempts to “warm” the water, only notifications will be sent. The functionality of our system will be tested by checking to see whether reaching the threshold temperature (55 degrees Fahrenheit or below) triggers our subsystem to alert the "resident" via sending a notification to their smartphone which would signify that the pipe is at risk of freezing. In addition, the subsystem that automates water flow should also be triggered as well which would result in the valve opening and allowing water to trickle through. We will artificially induce freezing conditions for the pipe by starting with room temperature water in the reservoir and adding ice so that the threshold temperature is crossed. If this takes too much time, we will simply substitute the room temperature water in the reservoir with ice cold water. # Criterion For Success 1) Water transfer to plastic bottle is automated by electronic valve connected to microcontroller unit PCB 2) Temperature alert sent to users mobile device 3) Show valve only releases for low enough temperatures 4) Valve only releases once every minute for 5 seconds (total of 3 times in 3 minutes) 5) After the initial water deposits, show only notifications are sent (no water transferred to pipes from this point) |
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| 23 | BAGS: Bags Automated Game System |
Annabelle Epplin Owen Schaufelberger Sania Huq |
Zicheng Ma | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Title: BAGS: Bags Automated Game System Team Members: - Sania Huq, saniah2 - Owen Schaufelberger, ods2 - Annabelle Epplin, aepplin2 # Problem Cornhole/bags is one of the most beloved and competitive sports in the Midwest, and now has dozens of professional players. It can be very easy to lose track of score or whose turn it is during the game, so what if the cornhole board could determine that information for you? Right now, the only cornhole scorekeepers on the market are manual wooden boards that you have to adjust yourself. This does not make it much easier to avoid losing track of score, especially in a game often accompanied by drinking and socializing. What if it could also give you game statistics and provide pointers to get the most points? # Solution We’ll be creating an entire cornhole board that would be able to accurately keep track of the score of the game. We would have force sensors covering the entirety of the board that would be able to determine when a bag hits the board. This data would be collected and sent to an app that would list the current score of the game and keep track of throws and turns. Furthermore, the app will keep track of the statistics of the game or practice session. The overall goal of this board is to both keep track of the game for you and provide game statistics and pointers to improve your skills. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 : Power External battery converting to on-system sensors and demand. ## Subsystem 2: Board Force Sensor Array This subsystem will consist of force sensors spread across the cornhole board. These sensors change resistance based on how much force is applied. They will detect when a bag has landed on the board by using how much an average bag changes the resistance. We will create thresholds through testing to determine specifically how many bags are in a particular region of the board. The device will be able to store this information to keep track of whose bag is whose on the board. The board state at the end of each round will be sent to the microcontroller, where the score will be calculated. There will be a set of infrared sensors in the hole. When the connection is broken, it will be determined that a bag has passed through and will be scored appropriately. The connection must be reestablished in a reasonable amount of time or else the score will not be changed to avoid the case of a bag hanging over the hole but not falling in. ## Subsystem 3: Processing An ultrasonic sensor will be attached inside the hole of the board. The ultrasonic sensor works in conjunction with the force sensor array. The sensor will detect that a bag is coming and will check with the sensor array to determine if there is a change in the board state. If a movement is detected and there is no change in the board state, then the throw will be determined as a total miss. We would use a wifi-enabled microprocessor that would interface with a PCB which would be able to communicate with a web application where the current score and game statistics could be accessed by players. # Criterion For Success Criteria for success are as follows: Sensors must accurately determine if the bags are going on the board or in the hole and convert this to a running score of the game displayed on the web application. App must be able to skip throws that miss the board. Device must be able to determine whose turn it is and when to switch players based on the amount of bags thrown already. Device must provide game performance statistics, such as percent of throws landing on board and present that on web application along with pointers to improve. |
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| 24 | ECE 445 SP23 RFA: AUTONOMOUS CARD DEALER |
Adam Naboulsi Ralph Balita Rohit Chalamala |
Nikhil Arora | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| ## **ECE 445 SP23 RFA: Autonomous Card Dealer** Early Request for Approval Jan 25, 2023 **_Team Members:_** - Adam Naboulsi (adamjn2) - Ralph Balita (rbalita2) - Rohit Chalamala (rohitc2) **#_Problem_** Describe the problem you want to solve and motivate the need. We all love card games, whether we are just playing casually with our friends or going to the casino. To name a few: Poker, Literature, Blackjack, Kings Corner, etc. We all want a fair card distribution system in which the gameplay is smooth/effortless and where the dealer is not cheating. **#_Solution_** Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. At a high level, we want to make the card game playing process more effortless and fair by replacing the dealer with a device. There are a few different subsystems of this project including the card shuffler, card dealer/distributor, and the user interface. The card shuffler allows the games to be more fair because it gets rid of human error that is often present with shuffling. We could make it even more fair by making a truly random shuffle by riffle shuffling the deck 5 or more times. The card distributor would basically replace the dealer by being able to rotate and shoot out cards to certain locations on the board. The user interface for this would be some kind of buttons that allows the user to control turning the device on and off, the number of players, the game mode, and starting/pausing the game, etc. This will solve the problems of current human dealers by making the whole process a lot more fair. #**_Solution Components_** Explain what the subsystem does. Explicitly list what sensors/components you will use in this subsystem. Include part numbers. Below are a set of subsystems required to complete the project **Shuffler** _Purpose / Usage_ The purpose of this subsystem is to mechanically mimic the act of shuffling cards. Ideally, a card shuffler should have the ability to shuffle a deck multiple times. The mechanism our group has developed has the capability to shuffle a deck only once. More on design will be discussed in the future. An automatic card shuffler shall shuffle a cut deck of cards, two sub-decks. The card shuffler shall stop shuffling cards once both sub-decks are depleted. The card shuffler shall use a contact sensor to indicate whether the sub-decks are depleted Components Here is a list of possible components that are necessary for this subsystem. - 2x servo motors - responsible for - 2x contact sensors - card holder - microcontroller **Dealer / Distributor** _Purpose / Usage_ The purpose of this subsystem is to mechanically mimic the act of distributing cards based on the game that is being played. More on ‘game-choice’ is described in the User Interface section. An automatic card dealer shall deal a deck of 52 cards evenly amongst 2 and 4 players. The card dealer shall rotate in a counter clockwise fashion. The card dealer shall have pre-defined trajectories based on the total number of players and the game being played. The card dealer shall distribute the first card to the left of the dealer. The card dealer shall distribute the last card to the ‘dealer’ The card dealer shall stop dealing the cards once all cards are depleted. The card dealer shall use a contact sensor to indicate whether the deck is depleted, which can be used to verify that the correct number of cards were dealt For a card game that requires 2 players, the servo motor shall have preset trajectories at 0 and 180 degrees. The same applies for 4 players, but instead, at 0, 90, 180, 270 degrees. As the deck gets rotated to each of the angular positions, the card dealer shall stop and deal a card. For bonus points, our group plans on having a card counting system to verify that the number of cards being dealt is correct. _Components_ Here is a list of possible components that are necessary for this subsystem - 1x stepper motor - rotate the deck and stop at preset angular positions - 1x servo motor - ‘throw’ a single card towards a player - 2x contact sensors - card holder - microcontroller **User Interface** Purpose / Usage The purpose of this subsystem is to allow the players to select what game to play and control when to shuffle and when to deal the cards for the given game. We can limit the number of players based on the game mode. If the user would like a game mode that has cards distributed evenly, then the User interface shall limit the number of players to 2 and 4 (for a 52 card deck) and 6 (for a 54 card deck). If the game mode is poker, then the UI shall limit the number of players to 2,3,4,5,6,7,8. The user interface shall have 4 buttons: - On/Off - Game Mode - user chooses “even distribution”, “poker”, etc - Number of Players - the user shall have the capability to toggle the number of players based on the chosen game mode - Start / Pause Default settings: num_players = 2 game_mode = even distribution The base model shall work well enough to run an even distribution for 2 and 4 player games. Some card games that will work for this include BullS**t and Literature. We plan on adding complexity by including the game modes: poker and UNO. These games require dealing an X amount of cards to a Y amount of players, so the contact sensors are unnecessary. The beauty of the project is that users can download and add game modes with preset settings: the number of players, number of cards distributed to each player, and any final cards dealt (ie. poker’s flop, turn, river), and their distinct trajectories _Components_ Here is a list of possible components that are necessary for this subsystem - 4 buttons - Debouncer #**Criterion For Success** Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective **Shuffle a set of cards evenly** This can be tested by looking at the cards before and after the card shuffler is done in order to determine the effectiveness of the shuffle. **Distribute the cards to the players** This can be tested visually by checking that the cards that are on the board have been distributed correctly and in the right order. **Buttons for user interface** Test each of the buttons to make sure they are performing as expected. |
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| 25 | A.I.dan: ChatGPT Integrated Virtual Assistant |
Andrew Scott Brahmteg Minhas Leonardo Garcia |
Hanyin Shao | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Andrew Scott (ajscott5) - Leonardo Garcia (lgarci91) - Brahmteg Minhas (bminhas2) # Problem Current virtual assistants (Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, etc) all use google as their primary mechanism for answering questions posed to them. While they may have other functionality, like integration with Amazon.com or spotify, their primary function is as assistants who answer questions based on audio I/O. With the advent of Chat GPT-3, Google is now an outdated information gathering mechanism, and needs to be replaced within the virtual assistant space. # Solution Our solution combines the convenience of a virtual assistant with the power of chatGPT to create a more powerful and useful home-assistant for answering questions. We will use a Speech-to-Text module to convert user voice input to text. This interaction, taking in user sound and responding shall be facilitated by a “cue word”, like “Hey A.I.dan”, or similar. To ask a question, a user will say the cue word and then ask their question. Once they have stopped speaking, A.I.dan will send the message through to ChatGPT, and once it gets back ChatGPT’s response, use Text To Speech (TTS) to relay it to the user as well as display it on the screen. ## Control Unit Utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller with a Raspberry Pi RP2040. Software on the microcontroller interfaces with the audio I/O, the screen, and the through Wi-Fi to a PC which handles the chatGPT API, as well as the Speech-to-Text and Text-to-Speech modules. The microcontroller will also receive the information to be output to the screen and microphone from the PC. ## Audio I/O The mechanism through which a user will interact with our device is with their voice. To facilitate this, both a speaker and microphone will be added to our PCB. Any post processing we want to do in order to clean up the audio to increase accuracy will also be done onboard. Any audio input to the microphone will go to the RP2040 for the detection of a wake word. Once a wake word is detected, the microcontroller will stream audio to a PC through Wi-Fi. Once the PC returns the chatGPT output after it has been passed through the text-to-speech module, it is played through the microphone. ## Screen Many outputs that ChatGPT has are not easily understood through an audio description. The best example of this is code segments, which are always formatted as a markdown. In order to provide this particular functionality, a screen shall be added externally to our assistant, connected by SPI to the PCB. # Criterion For Success To consider this fully successful, at least 75% of attempted basic interactions should be successful. Basic interactions are questions that are based entirely on words included in our pre-trained speech to text model. Code (Markdown) as well as traditional text answers must display/speak properly given a successful question. This can be tested by asking the same question to chatGPT on a separate device. # Resources: [Example of ESP32 to PC Audio Streaming]( https://github.com/MinePro120/ESP32-Audio-Streamer) [Example of PC to ESP32 Audio Streaming](https://www.hackster.io/julianfschroeter/stream-your-audio-on-the-esp32-2e4661) |
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| 26 | Secure Mailbox with Mobile Connectivity |
Avadh Patel Neehar Sawant Roshun Navin |
Vishal Dayalan | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Secure Mailbox with Mobile Connectivity Team Members: Neehar Sawant (neehar2), Avadh Patel (apate429), Roshun Navin (rnavin2) Problem: Mail is an integral part of how we receive information from other people, our communities, and businesses alike. However, even though it is delivered almost everyday, mail containing your personal information is in many cases not secure and risks being taken by others. While apartment buildings have keys which are only possessed by the tenant and mailman, many single family and townhomes have a conventional mailbox which is able to be opened by anyone. Currently, smart boxes exist for packages that can be placed outside your front door to be notified when you have a package, but this does not solve the issue for normal paper mail. Upon further inspection, there does not seem to be a smart mailbox which is both secure and can be mounted in place of an existing mailbox. Solution Overview: Our solution is to create a mailbox that is able to automatically lock as well as schedule when it is unlocked and send status updates to a mobile application. The mailbox will use a magnetic contact sensor to determine when the mailbox is opened and then send a signal to the PCB that sets a ready state and waits for the close signal. Once the door is closed, the magnetic contact sensor will send another signal to the PCB which in turn instructs the lock to close. The PCB will also interface with the mobile application which will send unlock and lock signals to the PCB to control the actions of the locking mechanism. This system will also be used for unlocking the mailbox during a scheduled window which can be controlled in the app. In order to notify the user if mail is present in the mailbox, multiple ultrasonic sensors will be used to detect if mail is covering any one of them. This information will be sent back to the PCB and then be sent to the mobile application to alert the user of mail. Solution Components: - Micro Servo Motor: This small, low powered, motor will be used to lock and unlock the mailbox. It will be attached to a metal extension to secure the lock. Something such as: FeeTech S0005 analog servo. - Ultrasonic Sensor: This will be used to determine with greater accuracy than a weight sensor whether mail is present inside of the mailbox by checking if the sensor is covered or not. https://www.sparkfun.com/products/15569 - Magnetic Contact Sensor: This will be used to determine when the mailbox is being opened and closed. The magnetic sensor has two components and when they are separated a signal is delivered. It will be separated when the door is opened. Something such as: 7939WG Magnetic Contact https://buildings.honeywell.com/us/en/products/by-category/sensors/contact-sensors/7939wg-magnetic-contact - Wireless module: This will be used to allow the microcontroller to communicate with our mobile application. Something such as: ESP8266. - Mailbox: We will use a 3d printer to create the mailbox outer casing - Battery: Lithium Ion Battery - https://www.sparkfun.com/products/13855 # Subsystem 1: Power We will utilize a battery for power and take the necessary steps to supply the PCB, motor, sensors, and other components with the required voltage demands. # Subsystem 2: Locking Mechanism The locking mechanism will be utilizing a servo to lock and unlock the mailbox. When the servo is in a horizontal position it will be used as a barrier between the door and the chassis so that the door cannot be opened. It will be moved to a vertical position when the user wants the mailbox to be unlocked in order for the door to open. The locking mechanism will be connected to the PCB which will send the unlock and lock commands. # Subsystem 3: Sensors Subsystem There will be ultrasonic sensors in the base of the mailbox and it will detect whenever mail or a package is placed in the mailbox. They will be placed at several positions along the base to ensure mail is detected and the user is accurately notified. We will also have a magnetic contact sensor at the top of the door. This will allow us to accurately know when the door is closed so that we can accordingly lock and secure the mail. Furthermore, we will have a wireless module allowing WIFI connectivity and data transfer to and from the mobile app. All sensors will be connected to and controlled from the PCB. # Subsystem 4: Application There will be a mobile application that will be created in order for the user to manually unlock and lock the mailbox. The user will also be able to set time windows in which the mailbox will be unlocked in case of multiple deliveries. Criterion for Success: - The mailbox is able to automatically lock and secure the mail after closing - The mailbox is able to detect mail present and send a notification to the user’s application - The user is able to lock and unlock the mailbox remotely from the user’s application - User is able to specify window of time where mailbox will be unlocked |
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| 27 | An Automatic Pet Door(seeking for approval) |
Haijian Wang Haoran Zheng Zhihao Xu |
Yixuan Wang | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| An Automatic Pet Door Team Members: - Student 1 (netid) Haijian Wang (haijian4) - Student 2 (netid) Haoran Zheng (haoranz8) - Student 3 (netid)Zhihao Xu (zhihaox4) 1. Problem For those people living near small natural ecosystems, some small-sized wildlife animals like racoons or lizards may enter their house through pet doors from time to time. If we can design an electronic device attached on the pet door with proper sensors that can distinguish cats and dogs from non-pet animals, then when the pets attempt to enter or exit the house, the pet door will automatically unlock with the help from some external mechanical devices, but if wildlife animals try to enter, the pet door will stay locked. Additionally, the practical use of such device is not limited to pets-scenario, and any problem involved in automatically distinguishing different types of objects and taking different actions can utilize this device because the training sets can be altered to fit different scenarios. 2. Solution and Design Graph The solution to our problem is to design an automatic pet door. We will have several subsystems. The most important subsystem would be a camera module to help us identify the animal at the door. The camera will be connected to an FPGA that runs pre-trained AI models. We will also have weight sensors and motion sensors to further verify that we have the correct type of animal. We will use batteries for our power subsystem and motors to unlock the latches. We would also have a notification subsystem that uses LEDs to indicate the status of the lock and sends out text notifications to users. Our customized PCB will connect every subsystem together and a microcontroller will control everything 3. Solution Components 3.1 Subsystem 1: Camera module and FPGA with pretrained AI implemented An AI programmed on the FPGA board will be trained and tested on recognizing pets' facial images with numerous photos as training, development, and testing sets. After completing the training process and reaching a desirable successful rate, the FPGA would be connected to the camera through PCB. The camera will monitor the outside of the door and send image data to FPGA, so the AI would determine whether the object is pet and generate different signals accordingly. 3.2 Subsystem 2: Assisting sensors 3.2.1 Infrared Motion Sensor: Detect whether some objects are near the pet door, if there is currently no object, then the camera, display device, and FPGA will remain shut down to avoid wasting energy. 3.2.2 Weight Sensor: This sensor serves as a fail-safe, and if the measured weight is lower or higher than the boundary of the expected weight range of normal cats and dogs, then the latch will always be locked even if the camera falsely recognizes the object as a pet. 3.3 Subsystem 3: Microcontroller on a Customized PCB 3.4 Subsystem 4: Sound Notification and Visual Display Device Basic: Single LED, if the latch unlocks, then the LED will light up. Intermediate: a full LED Array to form a rectangular board, if the latch is unlocked, corresponding individual LEDs in the Array will be lit up and display “unlocked”. Advanced: LCD screen 3.5 Subsystem 5: Power Supply Battery for supporting LED and mechanical controller. Using a voltage converter to supply the electric energy for operating the whole system. 3.6 Subsystem 6: Motor and Mechanical locking/unlocking device keeping a door closed until a release mechanism is activated which is related to our multiple sensors. When every sensor is satisfied, the unlocking mechanism will be activated and the door will be opened and will go back into locking status after pets pass through the door. Otherwise, the door will keep closed. 4. Criterion For Success For our project, we need to achieve this system with great efficiency and accuracy for recognizing the general characteristics of pets. We need to make sure the accuracy of the systems could identify animals without being disturbed by other objects. The door will be closed automatically when there are no pets appearing in front of the camera. The recognition of motion, weight, and graph should be satisfied at the same time to identify the pet as the correct type. Any incorrect recognition will make the door keeping closed. The door should be closed in a short time after pets have passed through the door and presented the status of door through the LEDs. The door should respond to the recognition result in a short time. If the recognition is correct/false, the door should open/close and the status of the LED should be changed. |
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| 28 | "Don't Kill My Plant" Habit Tracker |
Ben Wei DK Ehiribe Zade Lobo |
Selva Subramaniam | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # "Don't Kill My Plant" Habit Tracker Team Members: - Zade Lobo (zlobo3) - Ben Wei (btwei2) - Dike Ehiribe (ehiribe2) # Problem We are trying to solve a problem that has plagued people for ages: breaking bad habits and adopting good ones. Even though humans may want to change these habits, they usually lack the willpower in order to do so. Common solutions on the market to help people change habits include smartphone tracking apps and physical devices that track physical habits. These solutions are great for tracking, but the There are plenty of apps and devices that help people with habit tracking, but most of them can be circumvented easily and don't hold people accountable for their actions. In addition, any positive reinforcement methods that they provide are minor and are not effective enough. # Solution We want to change this by bringing in emotional attachment to tangible consequences to encourage people to keep up with their habits. While positive reinforcement may not be as effective, negative punishment has also shown promising results. "Don't Kill My Plant" is an application interface that will keep track of your habits through unforgeable data and will make the life of your plant dependent on it through hardware. The solution we are providing is innovative by causing people to emotionally attach themselves to keeping up with good habits as well as keeping a physical and visual reminder. # Solution Components ## Application Interface Subsystem The application interface is a phone application that will offer multiple ways to track habit forming, including location, screentime, and message and call tracking. This allows the application to pick up on habits such as going to the gym, avoiding a coffee shop, spending too much time on social media, or messaging your family. ## Plant Enclosure Subsystem The plant enclosure is a box with an airtight lid in order to create an isolated environment for a plant. The box itself will contain transparent walls with a method for blocking light out (either electronic tint or rolling window shades. The box will have an airtight lid that can be electronically opened and closed by the microcontroller. ## Microcontroller Subsystem The microcontroller will be an ESP32 or ESP8266 that will pull from a server that the application interface is publishing to. This will determine the binary state of the plant enclosure system (killing or living). When the state on the server changes, then the microcontroller will control the plant enclosure subsystem to change the state of the box. The microcontroller will also allow routine watering of the plant through the irrigation system, which may be interrupted by not keeping up with habits. ## Irrigation Subsystem The irrigation subsystem will be controlled by the microcontroller in order to routinely water the plant through the included water solenoid. The reservoir outside the plant enclosure will allow the user to input water for irrigation, but the actual water delivery will be controlled through hydraulic tubing piping it inside the system. # Criteria For Success - The created device system is capable of keeping a potted plant alive. - The same device system also has the capability of killing a potted plant. - The device can pull information from a server on habit uptime and determine the fate of the plant. - The application interface is able to facilitate habit tracking for the user and send this information to a server. |
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| 29 | Portable Thermal Printer (HP Inc.) |
Gally Huang Jason Liu Kevin An |
Hanyin Shao | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal3.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Portable Thermal Printer Team Members: - Gally Huang (ghuang23) - Jason Liu (jliu246) - Kevin An (kqan2) # Problem In such a modern world with many other products such as smartphones and the internet, the printer has remained relatively unchanged over the course of the last century. After electronics were invented, the art of printing was modernized in a way that allowed printing with electricity. In order to stay competitive, Hewlett Packard Inc. (HP) has set out a pitch for us to attempt to discover a way to make printing portable in order to keep their high market share over the printing market. Competitors such as Canon Inc. have already begun the process of creating such portable printers in the Asian markets and this will allow us to design and create smaller printers in the North American market. # Solution A system that receives instructions for printing wirelessly that can process image data and print the corresponding image on receipt paper. This system would allow for portable printing capabilities at low costs. We will use an FPGA to implement our solution because FPGAs can stand in place for a real-world ASIC. We can mass produce it eventually to be much more cost-efficient to market for the consumer and add the WiFi capabilities on a PCB alongside the FPGA. For our purposes, the FPGA serves as an emulation tool that is similarly used at HP for their standalone printers that can eventually be developed in an ASIC. The FPGA from ECE 385 will be utilized as the base of the project. We will be creating our own IO shield for the PCB that has the components described below (LCD, Wifi, Printer, and LEDs) that go on top of it. Since the printer requires a higher voltage than that of the FPGA, we will also need to figure out a way to shape the PCB to power all the components on 9/5/3.3V power rails. # Solution Components ## Imaging Subsystem - As image data is input, it will process the data to a black-and-white image. - ALTERA MAX10 Development & Education Board (DE10-Lite) (i.e., from ECE 385) - Thermal Receipt Printer Guts (https://www.mouser.com/datasheet/2/737/mini_thermal_receipt_printer-2488648.pdf) to print images onto receipts. Since it's the guts of a printer, we will be making a secure enclosure for it and connecting it to the MCU and FPGA using a PCB. ## WiFi Subsystem - Communicate between our system and simple backend server via WiFi. - ESP8266 SMT Module - ESP-12F WiFi module (https://www.adafruit.com/product/2491) - Wifi Subsystem on IO Shield for FPGA to receive data. ## Diagnostic Subsystem - LEDs that indicate the success or failure of the printing and imaging process. ### If we manage to achieve the above, the following will be added to the system: ## Sensor / Actuator Subsystem - It will output information about the printer battery level, printed image preview, and other diagnostic data to an LCD. - 1.8" SPI TFT display, 160x128 18-bit color - ST7735R driver (https://www.adafruit.com/product/618) - Buttons that decide what imaging algorithm to use when processing images. ## Power Subsystem - Batteries supply power to the thermal printer and auxiliary components. - If the printer is not executing, the system should be in an idle state and draw less power. The WiFi Module already has features to enable this (modem-sleep mode). We should try to see if there is a similar solution for the printer. - We need to account for the fact that not all the components use the same amount of voltage. So there must be some logic to stepping down the voltage. - We will require some guidance on the correct battery layout since all of our knowledge on battery systems is quite limited but we received some suggestions to use 18650 batteries in their correct layout in series and parallel to supply the correct power. - The FPGA, LCD display, and WiFi Module will be < 5V. - The thermal printer requires 5V-10V to operate, 7.5V-9V DC for best results at 1.5A current. # Criterion For Success 1. We need to make sure that the device is able to process data on its own through its hardware. We shall implement algorithms suggested to us by HP (e.g., Floyd-Steinberg dithering algorithm) on an FPGA. 2. The printed image must be the same as the image sent to the wireless subsystem except in black and white and fitted on receipt paper. 3. We need to use small printers. 4. We need to make sure that the device design is portable, such that it is able to receive data through WiFi and is battery-powered. |
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| 30 | Sensing Instrument for Generating Haptic Touch - SIGHT |
Dip Patel Jamiel Abed John Lee |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # SIGHT Team Members: Jamiel Abed (jabed2), Dip Patel (dippp2), Seung Lee (seungpl2) ## Problem There are 39 million people that are visually impaired who may face hardships related to sensing objects near them. Currently the most common solutions to mobility would be a walking cane, a guide dog, or a human guide. A walking cane requires the person to thoroughly and constantly sweep for obstacles as well as having a limited range. The problems with a guide dog and a human guide would be that not everyone has access to those resources. ## Solution overview I'm proposing we create a alternative tool for the visually impaired. The SIGHT would warn the user of a potential nearby obstacle that might pose a tripping or crashing hazard. Using an array of ultrasonic sensors we create a zone that can detect these obstacles and send signals that will be routed to a mesh of haptic pads which will be placed on the user. The SIGHT will give directional haptic feedback that will let the user know in which direction the potential hazard lies. Using a doppler based filter we would also be able to only send haptic feedback if an object is approaching you. The SIGHT will be better then the current alternatives since it will be more reliable and requires less physical effort from the user. The POV of the user is reflected through the XY plane of the haptic mesh (i.e. Object that you see in the top left of your view is represented by the top left of the haptic mesh). The Z dimension of the user's POV (depth of objects relative to the user) is characterized by the strength of the haptic touch. Case Examples: Approaching a wall- The haptic touch will lightly activate on all pads if a wall is far but approaching you. As you get closer the pads will release a stronger touch indicating the wall is getting closer to you. Standing in front of wall (Not moving)- The haptic touch wouldn't not activate in this case since relative to you the wall is not moving. ## Solution Components Ultrasonic Array: A square array of ultrasonic sensors (Likely 3x3) Haptic Mesh: A square array of haptic motor pads (Likely 4x4) Doppler Module: A doppler module that can detect relative velocities of objects for filtering purposes. ## Criterions for Success Criterion 1: The ultrasonic sensors must to a degree accurately determine the general direction and depth of the hazard. Criterion 2: The haptic mesh must work in conjunction with the filtered sensor data and accurately activate the appropriate haptic pads. Criterion 3: The processing must be able to filter out objects that are stationary relative to you as well objects moving away from you using the doppler effect. |
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| 31 | Self-balancing Food Tray |
Jay Kim Mitchell Kremer Taylor Xia |
Xiangyuan Zhang | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Taylor Xia (tyxia2) - Jay Kim (jonghok2) - Mitchell Kremer(mkremer3) # Problem Even for waiters and waitresses with experience, it may be a struggle to carry out and balance trays of food and beverages at restaurants while navigating around customers and rows of tables, especially with heavier and unevenly loaded trays. This is especially true when going to lower the tray down onto a nearby table or onto a folding servers table as the transition in height introduces potential dangers in stability. With the recent growing popularity of robotic and automated waiters, the need for a self-stabilizing platform or tray could prove valuable to this emerging technology. Modern day waiter robots are slow, boxy, and require the user to ultimately still take the food off of the robot’s carrying trays. With a small stabilizing platform, robots can be built to move faster with less risk and can actually serve food to a table like an actual waiter would. # Solution Our solution is to make a small, easy to carry electronic multi-axis gimbal stabilizing system to be carried between the servers hand and their tray that will stabilize the serving tray in real time to ensure that no drinks or food tip over while serving customers when encountering smaller/slower impacts and disturbances. This would allow the restaurant to save costs on lost food, drinks, and dishware while preventing dangers such as hot food being spilled on the nearby patrons. Subsystem 1 - IMU The IMU will contain gyroscopes and accelerometers that will provide the necessary orientation data for the necessary adjustments needed for the system to balance itself. Subsystem 2 - POWER SUPPLY Since our stabilization system will involve four stepper motors so as to have multi-axis capabilities, we would need a power supply with enough rated amperage for four of these motors and have the rated voltage of one of the motors. Depending on which type of motors we use, we will need either a 24V 4A to 48V 8A. See more details in “Balancing System” section. Subsystem 3 - MICROCONTROLLER We will use a microcontroller to receive the signals from the IMU to control the overall system and balance the tray. We will need a microcontroller that will produce a pwm signal of 250MHz, so we anticipate using the Teensy 4.0, but will also take into consideration the ATmega328P if complications occur. Subsystem 4 - BALANCING SYSTEM The main backbone of our balancing system will of course be the 4 stepper motors we chose to use and the 4 arms connected to each motor. The arms will be made of 3D printed PLA plastic with steel ball bearing joints. We will need to ensure the layer density of our printed arms is high enough to support the bearings; since PLA is relatively smooth already, friction is not as much of an issue. The motor we chose to use will both determine the weight of our system and the maximum carrying capacity of our tray. For this purpose, we have determined that either a Nema size 17, 14, or 11 stepper motor would fit for our project. Our choice of power supply will have to accommodate the motor we decide to go with. # Criterion for success - Criterion 1: The system must be able to balance itself when the axis carrying the surface encounters gradual tilts up to a 30 degree angle - Criterion 2: The system must be able to be resilient when encountering sudden, small bumps or stops - Criterion 3: The system will use a red LED to indicate when the angle of the axis goes beyond the accepted limit and beep to alert and encourage the server to hold still until it’s safe and the led will turn green and the beeping will stop. |
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| 32 | Automatic Cocktail Dispenser |
Ben Thuma Caleb Kong Carson Van Pelt |
Prannoy Kathiresan | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Automatic Cocktail Dispenser Team Members: - Carson Van Pelt (carsonv2) - Caleb Kong (calebk3) - Benjamin Thuma (bthuma2) # Problem Describe the problem you want to solve and motivate the need. Enjoying a nice cocktail with friends is a common activity among eligible adults. However, mixing these delicious concoctions takes a lot of time, skill, and effort that can detract from quality time spent with friends. In most cases, people may not have the knowledge and practice to produce the drinks they desire. Time and skill are two shortcomings that can be resolved with a simple device that can create drinks on its own. # Solution Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. An automatic cocktail dispenser is better than manually mixing in many ways: it’s more consistent, time-efficient, more convenient, and even safer. First off, manually mixed drinks are often hard to replicate consistently, especially when the user is inexperienced with making their own drinks. An automatic cocktail dispenser eliminates the opportunity for poorly mixed cocktails such as the quantity of alcohol used. Secondly, an automatic cocktail dispenser would be able to produce drinks at the push of a button and be ready to consume shortly after. There’s no doubt that making a drink by hand would be less time-efficient, so being able to simply push a button would make more time to socialize with friends. Lastly, the dispenser could potentially eliminate the risk of using sharp tools and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries from happening. The automatic cocktail dispenser would consist of 5 main components: Liquid dispenser Microcontroller Refrigerator Drink Stirrer Power Supply # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Liquid Dispenser Each liquid ingredient will be stored in its own original bottle and have its own tube, connected to a central dispensing area above the mixer. The tubes will be replaceable, for sanitary reasons, as well as to avoid mixing unwanted alcohol residue into the current cocktail. The liquids will be passed through the tubes using an electric pump. Smaller liquids such as syrups and juices may instead be connected directly through the refrigeration unit for convenience. ## Subsystem 2 - Microcontroller The microcontroller’s main purpose is going to be ensuring the correct amount of each ingredient is dispensed for each cocktail, as well as selecting the cocktail that is chosen by the user via button inputs. This system can also notify the user what liquors and juices are required for their desired cocktail to ensure the proper ingredients are connected to the machine. Depending on price this may be done by a small display on the unit or something like a lightweight phone application. ## Subsystem 3 - Refrigeration This component would keep specific ingredients safely stored and preserved prior to being dispensed for a cocktail, such as fruit-based juices and certain syrups. The liquors themselves will only need to be brought out of the user's main fridge when connected to dispensers, reducing the need for a large refrigeration unit. ## Subsystem 4 - Drink Stirrer Most simple cocktails are stirred after being produced, so the final step in the process would be mixing the drink with a stirring spoon/rod after everything has been dispensed. The stirring utensil will also be powered by an electric motor. Depending on cost and materials, this may either drop down on its own using an additional motor or simply be easily user attached, requiring small user interaction during this step. ## Subsystem 5 - Power Supply The design will simply be powered by any wall outlet. If units, such as refrigeration require their own plugs, we may connect them to a single power strip for convenience. # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective. - Releases the ingredients in the correct quantities, within 10% error - Dispenses correct ingredients for the correct cocktail recipe with no selection error - Safely refrigerate the perishable ingredients |
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| 33 | Autologous Transcranial Implant for the Delivery of Photodynamic Therapy for Intracranial Brain Tumors |
Brian Diner Jack Stender Mohamed Belakhoua |
Sarath Saroj | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Autologous Transcranial Implant for the Delivery of Photodynamic Therapy for Intracranial Brain Tumors Team Members: - Jack Stender (stender3) - Mohamed Belakhoua (mab21) - Brian Diner (bdiner2) # Problem Glioblastoma has a very poor prognosis of 12-15 months post-operation. The current standard of treatment is surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. There exists one FDA-approved device on the market that attempts to solve a similar problem - Optune. Other alternatives exist as well but they have low efficacy overall. In recent trials, photodynamic therapy has proven effective in treating cancerous cells though currently it can only be administered mid-surgery while the brain is exposed. # Solution To allow for photodynamic therapy to be administered post-operatively, we propose developing a small transcranial implant that would provide the light source for this therapy. Our objective is to create a programmable device that can be implanted through the skull which will provide control over PDT delivery chronically, allowing patients with GBM to be photo-irradiated without re-entering the operating room after their resection is completed. Components of this transcranial implant would include the appropriate light source, a light diffuser, battery, and an on/off mechanism. # Solution Components ## Light Source / Light Diffuser - Medical grade titanium socket implant attached to the skull. - Medical grade resin printed LED diffuser sitting in metal socket. Similar size to an apple watch in all dimensions ## Battery - Single-use battery - taking cues from pacemaker design ## On/off Mechanism - RFID or bluetooth code transmission to the microcontroller determines when and how LEDs are on # Criterion For Success Create a working prototype of a Photodynamic Therapeutic device. Create a custom PCB for an LED diode array that can be remotely programmed for the duration and intensity of the light. Design and implement a 3D-printed casing in the dimensions of the final product. |
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| 34 | Basketball fetcher drone |
Louie Davila Patrick Sarad Yinshuo Feng |
Sainath Barbhai | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Project title: Basketball fetcher drone Team Members: - Luis Davila (ldavila2) - Yinshuo Feng (yinshuo3) - Patrick Sarad (psarad2) # Problem When it comes to any sport, people typically like to practice certain skills over and over in order to better master them. One such skill that people like to practice is shooting a basketball from different spots on the court. However, anyone who has done this has definitely come across the issue of having to run back and forth retrieving their ball after taking each shot. This results in more time running for the ball than actually shooting it. # Solution Our solution to this problem is a drone that uses pincers to keep a spare ball or fetch a ball for the user. The user will be wearing APRIL tags so that the drone can identify them. The ball will be spray-painted to be a distinguishable color so that the drone can identify it. The drone software will be on an Arduino and a PCB, which will control a 4WD car for movement and pincers attached to the front for grabbing/holding a ball. Control commands will be issued based on inputs from a camera and an ultrasonic sensor. The drone will use a camera to identify the ball, the user, and the waypoint from which it will wait for a ball to fetch. The drone will start to fetch a ball if it is detected below a user-specified threshold in the camera view. When the drone is close enough to a ball, it will use the front-facing ultrasonic sensor to determine when the pincers should be closed in order to grab the ball. # Parts Needed 2-level RC car chassis 1 Ultrasonic sensor to approximate distance 1 Arduino camera module 4 Motors for the wheels 2 Motors for ball grabber 6 rechargeable 9V batteries (1 per motor) Apriltags for user and waypoint recognition Arduino PCB ## Control subsystem Software on the Arduino will process sensor and camera data and send the results to the microcontroller on the PCB, which will use these results to control the motors. Once the ultrasonic sensor detects the ball within a certain threshold, another signal will be sent to the PCB to engage the pincers to trap the ball. The PCB itself will be used to control the different motors on the car (all the motors connected to the wheels as well as the motors operating the pincers). Along with this, the ultrasonic sensor and the camera will be connected to the PCB. The ATtiny85 microcontroller will be used to control the 6 motors on the drone. ## Ball tracking subsystem The drone will come with an APRIL tag that will mark the location that the drone must return to after completing the ball fetching subprocess. This APRIL tag should be placed as follows: 1. The tag must be facing the court 2. The tag must be behind the hoop 3. The tag and the court should be separated by a distance greater than the length of the drone The user must then manually select a threshold on the camera view. If the ball is detected below the threshold, the drone will begin the ball chasing process. ## Ball chasing subsystem When the ball is detected below the manually selected threshold in the camera view, the drone will take one of 2 actions. If it is holding a ball, it will deliver its ball to the user before fetching the ball that was detected. If it is not holding a ball, it will fetch the ball that was detected. The drone will remember which action it takes at this stage until it completes the ball fetching process. ## Ball fetching subsystem Initially, the drone will rely on the camera to get closer to the ball. Once it is sufficiently close, data from the ultrasonic sensor will be used to get close enough for the drone to acquire the ball. When the ball is close enough to be acquired, motors will close the drone's pincers so that the ball is able to roll, but is confined to the space in between the pincers. Once the ball is acquired, the drone will take one of 2 actions. If it gave a ball to the user in the ball chasing process, then it will return to the user-selected waypoint defined in the setup of the ball tracking subsystem. If it didn't give a ball to the user, it will give the ball that it just fetched to the user and return to the user-selected waypoint. Upon reaching the waypoint, the drone will rotate until the user is on the camera. If both the ball and the user are on the camera, the drone will stop rotating. If only the user is on camera, the drone will continue rotating until it finds the ball. If only the ball is on the screen, the drone will stop rotating and use the threshold to determine whether or not to initiate the ball chasing process. # Criterion For Success An “objective” refers to any one of the following: the user, the ball, or the waypoint. 1. The drone can control the motors to travel towards an objective 2. The drone can use the sensor and camera to search for an objective. 3. The drone can slow itself down as it gets closer to an objective, and stop itself before colliding with the objective. 4. The drone can control the pincers to acquire a ball using data from the sensor to approximate the position of the ball relative to the pincers. 5. The drone can control the motors and pincers to deliver an acquired ball to the user. 6. The drone can complete the chasing sequence and the fetching sequence and return to its initial ball tracking state. # Link to project repository https://github.com/ldavila17/sp2023-445 |
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| 35 | Bluetooth Enabled Gloves for Controlling Music |
Mehul Aggarwal Oliver Johnson Saicharan Bandikallu |
Akshatkumar Sanatbhai Sanghvi | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| Bluetooth Enabled Gloves for Controlling Music Team Members: - Saicharan Bandikallu (sb35) - Mehul Aggarwal (mehula3) - Oliver Johnson (owj2) # Problem Inclement weather can inhibit the users ability to provide input to their phone. When people wear gloves, oftentimes they are too bulky to skip a sound track directly on wireless headphones, and would have to resort to taking out their phone which is rather cumbersome, and lots of times the feedback from the gloves is inconsistent. Since many people already wear gloves during the winter our solution is to use the gloves directly as input. # Solution We will create a system of technological gloves that can be used to fix this problem. The gloves will be able to connect via bluetooth to your phone and allow you to control your music settings and accept/reject calls. This will be possible through the use of flex sensors which will translate certain glove movements into command actions for your phone, such as skipping a song or accepting a call. This system will be useful because it allows you to control these phone functions without having to take off your gloves in cold weather and press a button on your earphones or pull out your phone. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 Using the flex sensors in a glove and creating a training model to detect finger/hand movements. We can then program certain finger/hand movements to control certain actions on your phone. The actions we want to focus on are accepting/declining calls, next track, previous track, volume up, and volume down. Main parts required: ZD10-100 Flex Sensor ## Subsystem 2 One glove will have a bluetooth device which allows it to connect to your phone. The glove will contain flex sensors and be pre-programmed with the movements required to perform certain actions on your phone. A microcontroller will read the flex sensor inputs from hand movements and determine which actions need to be sent to the phone for execution. We will also have to look into how to send specific bluetooth signals which an iphone can interpret. Main parts required: ESP32 WROOM microcontroller, MDBT42Q-512KV2 bluetooth transmitter ## Subsystem 3 We will also include a haptic feedback system into the glove to indicate when a hand movement has been registered and a command is being sent to your phone. This will require the use of vibration motors. Main parts required: DC 3V 12000rpm Flat Coin Button-Type Micro Vibrating Motor # Criterion For Success The goal is to be able to use a pair of gloves to control the music being played by a phone. The gloves should allow users to control volume, pause/play the music, skip or go back to songs, and accept or decline calls. |
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| 36 | Personal Carrier Robot |
Alex Tanthiptham Deniz Caglar Okan Kocabalkanli |
Raman Singh | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal3.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Okan Kocabalkanli (okan2) - Deniz Caglar (dcaglar2) - Jirawatchara Tanthiptham (jt20) # Problem In our current society, there are individuals who may lack the ability to carry objects by themselves. An example of this is elderly individuals who may be unable to carry heavy groceries. # Solution We can create a path-finding robot that will follow the individual while avoiding obstacles. We are planning on implementing this using ultrasonic depth imaging to detect obstacles. A series of rotating ultrasonic sensors will be imaging the surroundings of the robot. The person of interest will be sending GPS data to the robot through Bluetooth and another GPS chip will be present on the robot. The robot will calculate the distance between itself and the person of interest using the GPS data, and move in the correct direction based on the heading provided by an onboard compass chip. Combining the obstacle and goal direction data, we will employ a path-finding/SLAM algorithm to direct and move the robot through the terrain. # Solution Components ## Mechanical This subsystem will encompass the frame for mounting other components as well as the propulsion system of the unit. The system will be rear-wheel driven with each wheel powered by separate motors to allow for differential steering. ### Components: - Wooden chassis - A tank drive system with 4 wheels - 2 DC motors ## Power Management This subsystem will be powering the rest of the circuit including the PCB and the motors. ### Components: - A LiPo battery - LiPo battery charging circuit ## PCB This subsystem is the sensor suite and brain of our system, performing simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) and pathfinding for the system. This system will be generating a PWM signal for the stepper motor. The stepper motor then rotates the Radar Imaging sensors to generate a full field of view. From measured ultrasonic sensor data, obstacles in the systems environment are mapped. The subsystem uses this mapping in addition to data received from the RPI subsystem via SPI for path finding. When the user is in line-of-sight, MCU will be using the distance data from the RPI subsystem camera. When the user is out of line-of-sight, MCU will be using the user's gyroscope and accelerometer data from the RPI subsystem. Using either RPI data, the location of the user is set as the target point with Kalman Filter being used to predict these mapped points' trajectories. Using this trajectory information, the subsystem will create a probability grid. This grid will consist of specific size blocks with each having a collision probability. Using a path finding algorithm like A*, we draw a path between blocks to the target point in order to find the safest and shortest path. The system will compute the path from this and control the DC motors accordingly. ### Components: - A microcontroller - DC Motor controller - Step Motor Controller (TB67S128FTG) - Radar Imaging System Connector - Programmer Circuit - SPI Connection circuit to RPI - Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) Algorithm - Kalman filter for Obstacle tracking and prediction - Roadmap/Grid path planning with A* ## RPI This subsystem obtains and processes the data necessary for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) using a Raspberry Pi. By using a camera, the robot will detect a fixed-size tag. The fixed size will allow us to detect the distance using the camera perspective.This distance will be pass to the MCU over SPI. In case of a person blocks the camera view, we will switch to a "search mode" where the RPI will forward the phone's heading information (accelerometer, gyroscope ) to the MCU, which then will head the same heading as the user while avoiding obstacles until we find our user with our camera. ### Components: - Raspberry Pi - Bluetooth connection - RPI Camera ## User This is the subsystem that will directly interact with our users. In this subsystem, we will use a mobile app in order to send user’s GPS data over Bluetooth. For prototyping, we are planning on using an app called “Blynk”, which lets user transfer sensor data from a smartphone via Bluetooth. ### Components: - Smartphone # Criterion For Success - The robot should be able to consistently follow the phone holder through flat terrain with solid, straightforward obstacles. - The person of interest can be 3-10 meters away from the robot. - The obstacles should have a height of at least 30 cm over ground level. - The robot should also be able to carry a load of 3 kg over level ground. [Discussion thread]( https://courses.engr.illinois.edu/ece445/pace/view-topic.asp?id=72004) |
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| 37 | Smart Home Conditioning System |
Leo Li Shuning Zhang Zhaonan Shi |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Smart Home Conditioning System Team Members: - Haoen Li (haoenli2) - Shuning Zhang (sz31) - Zhaonan Shi (zhaonan4) # Problem The windows and curtains, which enable the exchange of air, light, and sound, are essential pieces of furniture that maintain the comfortable environment of a house. For people with physical disabilities who often stay at home for a long time, to maintain their mental health, it is particularly important to keep their home in exchange for fresh air and receive mild sunshine which will help them build a connection with nature and the outside world. However, for people with physical disabilities, it might be inconvenient for them to open the windows and curtains when it’s a pleasant day outside or to close them when it rains, fogs, smokes, or when it is too noisy or shiny outside. Therefore, we aim to design a Smart Home Conditioning System that automatically keeps the house in exchange for fresh air and mild sunshine on pleasant days and blocks the unpleasant weather outside for people with disabilities. # Solution The Smart Home Conditioning System consists of sensors to detect humidity, temperature, brightness, air quality, and noise levels, and two motors to open/close the window and draw the curtain. The sensor module consists of two subsystems: indoor and outdoor. For the outdoor subsystem, we will have the rain sensor, humidity sensor, and PM2.5 sensor to determine whether it rains, fogs, or smokes outside. For the indoor subsystem, we will have the brightness sensor and noise sensor to measure brightness and noise level. Additionally, we will also have two temperature sensors to measure indoor and outdoor temperatures. When the indoor temperature is lower than a preset value, and the outdoor temperature is high, the microcontroller will tell the motor to open the window. When the indoor temperature is higher than a preset value, and the outdoor temperature is low, the microcontroller will also tell the motor to open the window. In the case when the outdoor temperature is not within a preset range, when it rains, fogs, or smokes, or when it is too shiny or noisy outside, the microcontroller will tell the motors to close the window and draw the curtain. Besides, we will have an ultrasonic sensor for the motor to know whether the window and curtain are closed or opened. To address potential safety problems, we will employ a pressure sensor to detect whether there are any obstacles such as hands or pets between the window and the frame, and stop the motion of the window when necessary. Overall, this Smart Home Conditioning System consists of a sensor module with indoor and outdoor subsystems, a safety module with a pressure sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a microcontroller, a window control module, and a curtain control module. # Solution Components ## Sensor Module With sound sensor, humidity and temperature sensor, light sensor, rain detector, and dust sensor, we can measure humidity, temperature, brightness, air quality, and noise. The data would be used to decide the operation of motors. - Sound Sensor - https://www.makerfabs.com/sound-sensor.html - Humidity and Temperature Sensor - https://www.smart-prototyping.com/DHT11-Humidity-and-Temperature-Sensor-Module - Sunlight Sensor - https://wiki.seeedstudio.com/Grove-Sunlight_Sensor/ - Rain Sensor - https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-Moisture-Humidity-Sensitivity-Nickeled/dp/B01DK29K28/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=rain+sensor&qid=1674709659&sr=8-8 - Dust Sensor for PM2.5 - https://www.amazon.com/KEYESTUDIO-Particle-Monitor-Arduino-Raspberry/dp/B07B2PFPB5/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2IZSOXO2TUWC&keywords=dust+sensor+arduino&qid=1674710017&sprefix=dust+sensor+%2Caps%2C88&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEySjVZNktJNUlOMEtEJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODY4ODY4M0w3WlZXSUs0OEEyMCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwODk3NTU4NDA2MUtXVEpCQUxBJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ== - Ultrasonic Sensors - https://www.amazon.com/Smraza-Ultrasonic-Distance-Mounting-Duemilanove/dp/B01JG09DCK/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3THQW59WDTPH4&keywords=ultrasonic+sensor&qid=1674767394&sprefix=ultrasonic+sensor%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExN1lJSTUwV1RJRzFYJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzIxMDE0M1U4MTlFRU43R0VYSiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjgwMDI0M0FZVUdVR1dXQk1LUiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= ## Safety Module - Pressure Sensors - Amazon.com: Thin Film Pressure Sensor Flex/Bend Sensor ZD10-100 500g Resistance Type FSR Sensor Thin Film Pressure Sensor Force Sensing Resistor, Force Sensitive Resistor : Industrial & Scientific ## Power and Control Module In the Smart Home Conditioning System, we will send the data measured by the sensor module to the microcontroller to determine whether opening/closing the window or drawing the curtain will provide a better environment. The power is supplied by a 6V battery and the close/open operation is achieved by DC motors. - 6V 2000mAh battery - https://www.amazon.com/EMEPOVGY-6V-Connector-Rechargeable-Receivers/dp/B09TKTL8WX/ref=sr_1_53?crid=QNBK0KT6P28H&keywords=6v+battery+arduino&qid=1674710775&sprefix=6v+battary+arduino%2Caps%2C82&sr=8-53 - Customized PCB and microcontroller ## Window Control Module With instructions sent by the controller, the window would be closed or opened with a DC motor that is powered by a 6V battery. - DC motor for opening and closing of slide window - https://www.amazon.com/KOOKYE-28BYJ-48-Stepper-ULN2003-Arduino/dp/B019TOJRC4/ref=sr_1_47?crid=38BGIC631XE8Z&keywords=dc+motor+arduino&qid=1674710593&sprefix=6v+dc+motor+ardu%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-47 ## Curtain Control Module With instructions sent by the controller, the curtain would be closed or opened with a DC motor that is powered by a 6V battery. - DC motor for opening and closing of slide window - https://www.amazon.com/KOOKYE-28BYJ-48-Stepper-ULN2003-Arduino/dp/B019TOJRC4/ref=sr_1_47?crid=38BGIC631XE8Z&keywords=dc+motor+arduino&qid=1674710593&sprefix=6v+dc+motor+ardu%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-47 # Criterion For Success We hope to realize a system that will automatically open or close the window and the curtain given the change in the environment by collecting data from the sensors and making decisions in the microcontroller. We want to increase the accuracy of the sensors in the detection of different scenarios and achieve the precise movement of the motor. We need to make sure that the power offered by the motor wouldn’t be too large since the battery has a limit and the motor may lead to security problems. At the same time, we want to limit the operating time for the project to make sure that our smart system can respond to the different scenarios as quickly as possible. Besides from above expectation, we also need to: - Order the necessary (and backup) motors and sensors ahead of time - Provide good protection for the different sensors we are using, allow stable usage - Adjust the motors to have the right speed and position setting - Keep track of the lab notebook and every code we write - Good testing and debugging skills |
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| 38 | E-Bike Conversion Kit with Regenerative Braking |
Chloe Armstrong Jace Haas Lucas Pruett |
Matthew Qi | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # E-Bike Conversion Kit with Regenerative Braking Team Members: - Jace Haas (jaceh2) - Lucas Pruett (lpruett3) - Chloe Armstrong (chloeca2) # Problem Electric bikes can provide both a greener alternative to cars and a faster alternative to bikes. However, current electric bike designs are not without fault. One current problem with electric bikes is their limited range. The average electric bike will only allow riders to travel around 20-40 miles from their stopping point. For some, range is too low to justify purchasing an electric bike. Furthermore, ebikes on the market that have regenerative braking cost upwards of $1000-$2000, which isn’t affordable for most people. # Solution One solution to this problem is regenerative braking. Regenerative braking on electric bikes has been shown to, on average, provide a 2-15% boost in range. Even higher range boosts have been observed in more extreme cases of hilly, stop-and-go routes, or when the rider is carrying heavy cargo. Not only does regenerative braking allow for a boost in range, but it also cuts down significantly on brake maintenance. When normal brakes are only needed in case of hard stops, brake wear is significantly reduced. Our idea is to provide an economical and modular option to electrify pre-existing bicycles. The final product will be versatile and flexible. The system will provide throttle motor drive, regenerative braking, and collect data in order to troubleshoot and to measure the range increase from braking. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Motor Control The motor control subsystem takes input from the control unit and modulates motor speed. It is also responsible for controlling regenerative braking. Example motor: https://ebikeling.com/collections/ebikeling-ebike-wheels-with-motor-ebikeling-ebike-conversion-kit/products/waterproof-36v-500w-26-geared-front-rear-ebike-motor-wheel-only?variant=32465545429058 Example motor control: amzn.to/3jcSAMu ## Subsystem 2 - Battery The battery subsystem takes input from the control unit and modulates battery output and input as needed without damaging the battery or overcharging. https://www.vladsmall.com/product/48v-20ah-13s3p-18650-electric-bicycle-lithium-battery-bms-for-ebike-electric-vehicle-electric-motorcycle-with-charger/ Lipo cell: https://www.vladsmall.com/product/48v-20ah-13s3p-18650-electric-bicycle-lithium-battery-bms-for-ebike-electric-vehicle-electric-motorcycle-with-charger/ ## Subsystem 3 - Control Unit The control unit subsystem takes inputs from throttle and brake, and communicates with the other two systems. It could also be used to handle data collection, which would be useful for testing and troubleshooting. We will plan on designing a PCB for this subsystem. A microcontroller can be used for data collection. Proposed micro controller chip: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/product/ATmega328P # Criterion for Success This unit should be able to increase the range by 5% in a city environment. Controls should allow for regenerative braking systems to be engaged before manual braking. This unit should be cheaper than available e-bikes with regenerative braking. (<$1500 including bike) Extra goals - Dashboard for data display - Odometer, speedometer, lights - Variable regenerative braking strength |
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| 39 | Request for Approval: Soil Moisture Controller (Pitched Project) |
First Yingyord Isabel Alviar Ren Yi Ooi |
Dushyant Singh Udawat | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| This project is a pitched project idea by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s research laboratory on campus. It would be performed in partnership with a capstone team from the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. # Problem One of the biggest limiting factors for gains in agricultural productivity is the ability to provide sufficient moisture in the soil for the growth of crops. In particular, arid regions face the possibility of the occurrence of droughts that reduces the crop yields in dryland agriculture. To manage this issue, various water management strategies have been developed to ensure that there is sufficient water being applied over these crop lands. These irrigation systems have to provide control over the amount of water that is being applied over these crop lands such that optimal agricultural productivity is achieved while ensuring maximum water use efficiency. Currently, the measurement of soil moisture content in pots are performed manually with individuals monitoring the moisture level based on weight, or the use of gravimetric sensors. Upon irrigation, the weight or load of the pot would be at its maximum, and due to evapotranspiration over time, this weight would be lowered. When it eventually crosses a threshold set by the sensor, irrigation of the pots would be triggered again. However, due to the many different components that make up the weight of the pot, it is difficult to measure the exact proportion of increase in plant mass to the change in soil moisture content to obtain an accurate indication of when the irrigation has to be activated. As a result, there is a need for a more precise method to measure and maintain the soil moisture conditions in these pots through the use of soil moisture sensors. These soil moisture sensors would allow for the moisture that exists in the pot to be read so that sufficient irrigation is provided for consistent moisture. # Solution Overview Our solution consists of a cheaper yet more effective device that provides constant moisture monitoring and water irrigation as needed. When the moisture within the substrate is below the predetermined target level, the water valve will be triggered to an extent where the moisture can be maintained at that level. In addition, the users are also allowed to check the current status of each pot, that is whether the substrate moisture is desirable, and control the target level in the pot. We would work alongside the team of ABE students to also ensure that our solution could be scaled up for high-throughput of at least 50 plants in the future. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Irrigation Subsystem Irrigation is the process of artificially applying controlled amounts of water to land or crops. This is done by using valves as well as a system of tubes and pumps to bring in water from pipes, canals, sprinklers, and other mean-made water sources, instead of relying on rainfall. For this project, the irrigation subsystem for each soil pot would consist of a valve that would open and close based on the moisture level measured, in order to maintain a desired set of moisture conditions for different soil and soilless substrate mixes. Irrigation is needed in a given pot if it is sensed that the moisture level falls below a certain value (for example, below 60 for fine soil). When this happens, relay switches activated by a microcontroller, such as an Arduino, will operate the irrigation valves (likely 24V) that correspond to each sensor-controlled pot, and water will flow out until the soil reaches an ideal value again. Potential materials: - ¾” valve: - https://www.amazon.com/Galcon-Irrigation-Reinforced-Greenhouse-Residential/dp/B08MTQB8BX/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3RHJI5FFG6PJE&keywords=24v+irrigation+valve+3%2F4+water&qid=1675117467&sprefix=24v+irrigation+valve+3%2F4+water%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-4 - https://www.amazon.com/Beduan-Electric-Solenoid-Normally-Colsed/dp/B07YTHKHL4/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2QMUSM9AGT0L8&keywords=24v%2Birrigation%2Bvalve%2B3%2F4&qid=1675117428&sprefix=24v%2Birrigation%2Bvalve%2B3%2F4%2Caps%2C100&sr=8-3&th=1 - Tubing: https://www.amazon.com/Tubing-Flexible-Hybrid-Lightweight-10-Feet/dp/B07HF648M5/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=clear+plastic+tubing&qid=1675117678&sr=8-4 - Hose ring: https://www.amazon.com/Selizo-Including-Adjustable-Clamps-Stainless/dp/B07G9TZLRM/ref=sr_1_8?crid=1C737TN4ANA1X&keywords=hose+ring&qid=1675117705&sprefix=hose+ring%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-8 ## Subsystem 2: Data Acquisition Subsystem The data acquisition subsystem will consist of a data logger, an instrument that monitors and records changes in conditions over time. Most data loggers can accept two or more types of input, so we would program ours to take inputs such as voltage, current, temperature, etc. The data logger will ultimately communicate the need for irrigation by measuring and recording calculated factors like volumetric water content for each soil, and generating a list of plants that require irrigation. Then, this list of plants will be sent to the microcontroller that carries out the irrigation process for the relevant plants by using a pulsing I/O signal of either 0 or 5V to communicate whether or not irrigation is needed. There are many expensive existing data loggers such as the CR100, but we would want to buy or build one that is still battery-powered and effective for a cheaper price. One option that nicely interfaces with an Arduino microcontroller would be to create a data logger from scratch using a data-logging shield, coin battery, and SD card. Potential materials: - Data-logging shield - https://www.amazon.com/AITRIP-Logger-Logging-Recorder-Arduino/dp/B09PDL7XM7/ref=sr_1_4?crid=13UWJYJNEUANV&keywords=data+logger+arduino&qid=1675121100&sprefix=data+logger+%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-4 - https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-Logging-Recorder-Logger-Arduino/dp/B00PI6TQWO/ref=sr_1_3?crid=13UWJYJNEUANV&keywords=data+logger+arduino&qid=1675121312&sprefix=data+logger+%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-3 - Coin battery for shield - SD card - www.adafruit.com ## Subsystem 3: User Interface Subsystem The user interface subsystem would consist of two main components. The first component would be an LCD display that shows the current soil moisture level as detected by sensors in a percentage form (out of 100%). The second component would be a dial in the form of a potentiometer for the user to be able to tune the soil moisture level to the desired level. This desired soil moisture level can also be displayed on the LCD screen. In order to achieve this, a customizable LCD display would be used. An Arduino Uno microcontroller can be used to interface the soil moisture sensors and potentiometer with the LCD display. Parts needed: - 16x2 LCD display (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/newhaven-display-intl/NHD-0216BZ-FL-YBW/NHD-0216BZ-FL-YBW-ND/1701195) - Arduino Uno R3 ATMEGA328P Eval microcontroller (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/arduino/A000066/1050-1024-ND/2784006) - 10K Ohms potentiometer (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/bourns-inc/PDB12-H4301-103BF/PDB12-H4301-103BF-ND/3780664) - Breadboard (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/dfrobot/FIT0096/1738-1326-ND/7597069) ## Subsystem 4: Controller Subsystem In order to efficiently gain the desired substrate moisture level, we decide to implement a PI controller which takes the feedback input from the moisture sensor, compares the measured value with the desired value, and triggers the water valve if the measured value is below the desired value. The value from both the moisture sensor and user input will be sent to a differential amplifier that outputs a voltage proportional to the voltage difference, and a diode that filters only the positive voltage difference i.e. when the desired moisture level is above the current level. The filtered voltage will then be inputted to the PI controller which consists of potentiometers for tuning the controller, inverting op-amps for amplification, and capacitors for implementing the integrator circuit. The reason we do not include a derivative part is to remove the instability problem which may arise from a noisy system. Finally, the output of the controller will be amplified and connected to a LM555 Timer chip in order to generate a PWM signal to the water valve so that the amount of water being given is sufficient to each pot. Please note that further experimentation is still needed to determine the specific parts within each component. # Criterion for Success - The moisture sensors should be able to detect the current level of moisture in the soil for the moisture level data to be logged and displayed on a monitor - The system should be able to provide irrigation when the moisture level falls beyond a set threshold level - There should be a dial that allows the user to tune the moisture level to a desired value |
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| 40 | RFID Door Lock |
Arely Irra David Sullivan Nich Rogers |
Nikhil Arora | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| Nich Rogers (Nroger5) Arely Irra (airra2) David Sullivan (davidrs3) # RFID DOOR LOCK [Link to Discussion](https://courses.engr.illinois.edu/ece445/pace/view-topic.asp?id=71842) [Simple High Level Diagram](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wcPRO_gitld9lWCwFr9iQTqBeHypjF9-k5uXQeYU6p4/edit) # Problem The objective of the RFID Door Lock is to create a mechanism to unlock your door using an RFID tag. The reason for this is there are many factors that can cause someone to be unable to manage to get their key into a door lock including but not limited to low lighting, debris in the lock, inebriation, disability such as blindness, diseases like parkinsons and more. This is a safety hazard if you get locked out of your apartment due to any previously mentioned scenarios. # Solution Our RFID Door lock would be a non-intrusive mount for a door that would scan an RFID chip located on your person like a keychain. Previous market implementations have RFID tag solutions but many require costly infrastructure such as scanners mounted to walls or the door locks replaced with new smart locks, which for someone renting like a college student can incur costs from loss of safety deposit or may even lock a landlord out when doing apartment showings due to some removing the key hole entirely. # Solution Components # Front Door RFID Scanner The RFID scanner portion that exists outside the front door would have a housing unit containing the[ RFID scanner](https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/dlp-design-inc/DLP-RFID2/3770244), an LED to blink red or green for success/failure to unlock, a buzzer for playing audio for success/failure to unlock and finally a [wireless power receiver](https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/vishay-dale/IWAS4832AEEB120KF1/10223651?utm_adgroup=Inductors&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Supplier_Vishay&utm_term=&utm_content=Inductors&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgLLB2v7v_AIVKcmUCR1wXQ7uEAQYASABEgIWafD_BwE). This unit will likely be a 5x5x2 inch housing unit mounted above the previous lock using longer screws to go through our unit and keep the old lock in place. # Remote battery pack with RFID tag We have multiple ideas for unit powering. The first is an ambient light [amorphous solar cell](https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/panasonic-bsg/AM-1801CA/869-1003-ND/2165188) which can recharge an internal battery removing the need to ever replace it. This works in low light as well so indoor and outdoor units can both be recharged passively. If the unit ever runs out of battery our second is the wireless power transmitter and receiver, the receiver lives in the door as previously stated and a [transmitter](https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/tdk-corporation/WRM483265-10F5-12V-G/10484695?utm_adgroup=Wireless%20Charging%20Coils&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Product_Inductors%2C%20Coils%2C%20Chokes&utm_term=&utm_content=Wireless%20Charging%20Coils&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6L6y5_7v_AIV8oJbCh120giXEAQYAiABEgJQlfD_BwE) would be within a portable pack that could fit on the back of a phone or within a wallet so you could tap a card, have the rfid reader read the tag and then have the transmitter send power to the unit which it would use to power the linear actuator. # Inside Door Control Unit The inside of the door would house the control unit containing our PCB to control the outside door buzzer,LEDs and receive info from the RFID scanner. This inside unit would also control the [linear actuator](https://www.amazon.com/USLICCX-Actuator-Electric-Massage-Recliner/dp/B07X3Z68GV/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=mini%2Blinear%2Bactuator&qid=1675109676&sr=8-3&th=1) used to rotate the door lock to unlock it upon successful RFID scan. This unit would exist/work with previous infrastructure on the door and not replace the door handle. It would again use longer screws in the same holes to mount our unit above the existing lock but still leaving access to it. The inside will also house buttons and LEDS as a user control and informational unit to how many key fobs are active on the door or to add more using the master fob. For security the system will also detect should the door be left unlocked based on position of the motor so having a sensor or a motor with location(extended retracted) info available, the system would also optionally lock the door automatically by detecting when the door shuts. The housing unit for the PCB, microprocessor and battery pack to power the whole system will likely fit within a 5x5x2 inch housing unit. We will likely use a [STM32F103C8T6 microprocessor](https://www.snapeda.com/parts/STM32F103C8T6/STMicroelectronics/view-part/) due to the instructions needed to implement clock functionality to relock the door after a time out. # Power and data transfer Our implementation will work in tandem with deadbolt locks which are bored through the door which leaves space for wires to pass through within the same hole the deadbolt lock is mounted in. # Criterion for success Our criterion for success aligns nearly identically with the solution components and the main idea of the solution. First is that our design can be mounted without the use of screws that may damage the door, and without replacing any current existing door handles or losing any functionality of the current door such as no blocking the key lock hole. Second is an RFID tag will be able to unlock the door via the internal motor when scanned as well as give audio and visual feedback via the speaker and LED housed outside the door in a weather resistant housing due to some apartments being in adverse conditions. Third, the internal unit must be able to give the master fob access to adding and removing new fobs either manually or via a set time-out via buttons and have an LED display panel to visualize how many active fobs there are on the door. Fourth is both power options with an amorphous solar cell to recharge the unit's internal battery as well as a portable casing to carry wireless power transmitter and RFID tag within it. Finally the internal unit will house the PCB,power and control unit that will be able to house and manage these functions. |
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| 41 | Smart Curtains |
Jack Davenport Max Mauschbaugh Vinay Konda |
Nikhil Arora | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Smart Curtains Team Members: Jack Davenport (johndd2) Vinay Konda (konda3) Max Mauschbaugh (maxjm2) # Problem Oftentimes an alarm clock is not enough to wake people up in the morning, and when they do wake people up it is an immediate and shocking way to start your day. I know I'm not the only one who gets shivers whenever they hear the iPhone alarm ring at any point throughout the day. We want to create a product that will complement an alarm clock to make the wake up process more effective and enjoyable. # Solution We want to make smart curtains that automatically open in the morning to assist an alarm clock. The curtains should open at a certain time in the morning based on what the user sets it to and should be able to sync up with an alarm clock by connecting via wifi. We believe that waking up to natural sunlight is the healthiest and most enjoyable way of getting up in the morning, and hope we can create a system that lets us do so. # Solution Components ## Curtain Movement Subsystem For the movement of the curtain itself, we will use a motor connected to two strings that will wrap around the furthest curtain ring on either side. One string will be used to open the curtains and another to close them (similar to the opening and closing of elevator doors). For the motor and its controller these should be sufficient: [Motor](https://www.amazon.com/Greartisan-Electric-Reduction-Centric-Diameter/dp/B072R5G5GR?th=1), [Motor Controller](https://www.amazon.com/Greartisan-Controller-Variable-Regulator-Governor/dp/B07H8ZJSFQ?th=1). For the thread we’ll use something durable like this: [Cotton Thread.](https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Macram%C3%A9-Natural-Knitting-Wedding/dp/B07KCZXKYX/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=cotton%2Bthread%2B1%2Bmm&qid=1675135320&refinements=p_36%3A2638326011%2Cp_76%3A2638115011&rnid=2638113011&rps=1&s=arts-crafts&sr=1-15&th=1) We will 3d print parts for the motor shaft to be able to fit and pull the two strings. When opening and closing, our motor will coil the two strings around the shaft in opposite ways, increasing slack of one string and decreasing the slack of the other. This will allow for the motor to rotate one way to open the blinds, and rotate the opposite way to close them. ## Processing Subsystem Our microcontroller will connect to our WiFi module to receive information about alarm times and more, which the microcontroller will then process. Something like this will work for the WiFi module: [ESP8266](https://www.sparkfun.com/products/17146). The PCB’s open and close state for the curtains depend on the alarm information sent via WiFi. In addition, we will have a physical button for manually changing the PCB’s open and close state. Something like this should work: [Button](https://www.superbrightleds.com/more-led-lights-and-fixtures/installation-supplies/switches-dimmers/rocker-pushbutton-remote-switches/mini-on-off-toggle-switch-wired-mini-on-off-toggle-switch-wired) ## Power Subsystem In order to power the pcb, motor, and other components of the system we will be using a rechargeable battery. # Criterion For Success - Able to reliably open and close curtains using one motor and a string. - Accurately opens/closes with respect to alarm using wifi. - Manually open/close blinds based on toggle of a physical button. |
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| 42 | Disposable NFC bracelets and reader |
Brennan Eng Edson Alpizar Ege Gunal |
Zicheng Ma | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Project Title: disposable NFC bracelets and reader Team Members: - Brennan Eng (bheng2) - Ege Gunal (egeg2) - Edson Alpizar (alpizar2) # Problem Waterparks have an issue with optimizing their security, sales, and customer experience. The first example of a problem is customers who manage to sneak past staff and get in for free. There is no easy way to discern between a paying customer and someone who has just snuck in and even then there is always human error in identifying them. One example of a problem is if a consumer is currently in the water and becomes hungry they must travel back to their locker/chair to get their card/cash, go to the food stands to purchase the food, go back to their locker/chair to safely secure their money, and lastly head back to the water after eating. The last example of a problem is if a parent loses their child within the park and there is not log of where to narrow down the search of the kid. Security and authenticated entry to events should always be a top priority for businesses for the safety of their customers as well as ensuring that they do not have a loss in profits. On top of this concern, there are not many comprehensive systems that combine both security, payment, and consumer data collection to optimize the experience for the consumer as well as streamline operations for the business. # Solution Our solution involves constructing a system that uses cheap, disposable, and reprogrammable NFC bracelets that can be scanned with an NFC chip reader. The solution has two purposes: user-sided actions (to improve user customer experience), and business-sided actions (to optimize profits and security). The purpose of the NFC bracelets for the user is to integrate a seamless experience for the consumer which takes care of access, payment, and other services if requested. On the other hand, the purpose of the NFC bracelet for the business is that invaluable data that is received from each interaction of the user. Depending on the use case, the NFC chip reader will then access a custom built consumer database that will carry out authenticated user-sided actions. Some of these actions can include: - Access entry and exit security - Contactless payment solutions - Consumer interaction data lookup On the other hand, the database will not only store customer data and access, but log in all interactions that the user performs. This will not only provide an accurate real-time ledger of where a user might be, but also provide invaluable business intelligence about the user and how they conduct their business in the parks. For example, a certain food stand in the water park has peak user payment activity from the times of 3-5 pm and the lowest between 12-1pm and 7-8pm during opening and closing times. With this insight, the waterpark can reduce labor costs by only scheduling the most people during the busiest times and less staff when it is much slower. By having these business insights backed up by data, the waterpark can optimize their operations. #Parts needed(we will be providing the funds for purchasing these) * Reader - Arduino Nano - NFC Reader Module Kit (SunFounder Reader Module Kit) - Battery? - 3D printer (for casing) - Something transmitter (have to find a part) * Band - 3D printer for band - NFC Tags * Writer - Raspberry Pi - NFC Writer (need to find part) * Ultrasonic Sensor/Counter - PCB board - LED Display (counter) - RGB LED - Ultrasonic sensor - micro controller # Solution Components ## Reader-Band System We will use the Arduino with the addition of the NFC Reader Module to keep track of activity at a specified location. We will set up the arduino to send all the data we want into the SQL database. All the information that would be read by the reader would be stored in the user bands. This interaction will give the establishment logs of all activity in their establishment and thus allowing them to have better security as well as analytics that can help them improve. ## Reader-Write System We will use the Raspberry pi to hold a local server that will contain the SQL database. The raspeberry will also be connected to a nfc writer module (have to find the part) so that the owner of the business can write the clients information on it so that the reader component can correctly log information on the database. The raspberry pi will also be connected to a microcontroller. The purpose of the microcontroller is to delete the customers’ information after they leave the vicinity e.g checking out of a hotel. ## Reader-Sensor Component We will integrate a second component to our NFC reader that consists of PCB design that has a an LED that blinks either red or green. The pcb will be connected to a ultra sonic sensor that can keep count of people entering or exiting the building. This second component will also contain a LCD display that displays the number of people that have entered or exited the building. The microcontroller will be used to reset te counter for the day. When someone enters a building they would scan their nfc tag with the reader. If the user is recognized the LED from the sensor component will turn from red to green turning on the ultra sonic sensor for a 5 second period allowing you to enter a specific location. The counter on the sensor will increase whenever the ultra sonic sensor determines a person has walked by. The counter should only increase by 1 since a nfc tag is associated to 1 person but if the counter increases by more than 1 during that open window the person whose tag was read will be liable since our server will be able to determine who entered the building and the amount of people that may have entered with them thus allowing the establishment to call them out for breaching their rules. This is an effort to increase security at establishments and to discourage having unwanted guests. ## SQL Database The SQL database will be held on the raspberry pi, this database will hold all a client’s information including any form of payment, name, hotel room etc. The database will also log when a enters or exits specific locations of the vicinity to help the owner of it. |
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| 43 | FPS Game Somatosensory Enhancement Gun Controller |
Beining Chen Haochen Zhang Peilin He |
Yixuan Wang | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # FPS Game Somatosensory Enhancement Gun Controller ## Team Members: - Peilin He (peilinh2) - Beining Chen (Beining4) - Haochen Zhang (Hz39) # Problem The functions of video game controllers nowadays are very limited to the gaming machine, and are mostly in the form of joy-stick or controller. Playing shooting games on PC with a mouse or joystick can lower a gamer's gaming experience and make gaming a less realistic experience.. Especially when VR games slowly occupy the video game market,a non-traditional controller, or a somatosensory enhancement gun-shaped controller is necessary. # Solution The solution is to introduce the use of Somatosensory Enhancement accessories. A Somatosensory Enhancement shooting controller can make shooting video games more realistic and interactive. We plan to build a gun-shaped shooting controller that could simulate target aiming, gun recoil, reload bullets, and potentially flash bomb and smoke bomb. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Processor We will use a PIC32 microcontroller to handle memory allocation for the cache. It can also communicate with the Wifi chip to transfer data. https://www.mouser.com/new/microchip/microchip_pic32/ ## Subsystem 2: Wireless connection First of all, our design regarding a gun-model video game controller is not only limited to video games. It could also accomplish the function of a mouse which could control the cursor. Therefore, a wireless connection such as bluetooth is needed. ### Wireless Connection parts: ESP32-PICO-D4 Espressif Systems ESP32 PICO module. https://www.gridconnect.com/products/esp32-pico-d4-espressif-systems-esp32-pico-module?variant=9740028510244&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping+-+Desktop&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=7986939350&hsa_cam=18566303751&hsa_grp=147887861968&hsa_ad=627525968785&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2078855464952&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw8OeBhCeARIsAGxWtUwmVoJj798qb5FMj6avdIXGO-ydMxWrTO9nwvRTR41JAaAWuykQRAQaAodcEALw_wcB DROK 12V Audio Receiver Blue~Tooth Module DC 5V-12V Portable Wire~Less Electronics Stereo Music Receive Circuit Chip https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-DROK-Receiver-Electronics-Headphone/dp/B07P94Z9XR/ref=sr_1_5?crid=25GB25DVFXH3E&keywords=bluetooth%2Bchip&qid=1674762910&sprefix=bluetooth%2Bchip%2B%2Caps%2C365&sr=8-5&th=1 ## Subsystem 3: Motion detection Motion detector Use gyroscope somatosensory to control the computer cursor. HiLetgo GY-521 MPU-6050 https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-MPU-6050-Accelerometer-Gyroscope-Converter/dp/B01DK83ZYQ/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Gyroscope%2BSensor&qid=1674763585&sr=8-3&th=1 ## Subsystem 4: Vibration Vibrator to simulate gun recoil. We can use a motor vibration part to achieve this. We will be using a 308-100 8mm vibration motor to mount on our PCB. https://www.precisionmicrodrives.com/ab-006 ## Subsystem 5: Power This subsystem will supply power to the rest of the sub-system. It contains a battery and a USB charger. If available batteries can not provide enough power, we will choose to use external power supplies. # Criterion For Success Our solution should be easily accessible from any computer with bluetooth. Our gun controller should function as a cursor that accurately reflects the aiming point on the screen.In FPS video games, physically turning the aiming point left and right will turn the player's angle of view left and right with according degree. During a game, pulling the trigger on the gun controller will give the player physical shaking action to simulate gun recoil. Also, pulling the bolt will complete a bullet reload in the game. # Anticipated Difficulties Our anticipated difficulties revolve around connecting bluetooth from our device to a PC which can accurately reflect real time cursor position and functions similar to a mouse. Precisely connecting the gun controller with motion detector and gravity sensor to calculate screen coordinate to reflect cursor position is expected to take a long time implementing and debugging. |
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| 44 | Head Controlled Mouse |
Amanda Favila Asher Mai Lauren Wilcox |
Sainath Barbhai | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # # Head Controlled Mouse Team Members: - Asher Mai (hanlinm2) - Amanda Favila (afavila2) - Lauren Wilcox (lwilcox4) # Problem There are many reasons why someone would want to use an eye or head-controlled mouse. Some people want to increase the rate at which they can move their mouse across the screen. Others may switch off between clicking and typing so much, and not having to take their hands off of the keyboard will save them time. Disabilities can also make using the standard computer mouse or trackpad difficult. Although eye and head-controlled mice have been invented, they typically require an expensive camera setup. On top of this expensive price and complicated setup, these devices are not universal to any device from Mac to PC to iPad. There is clearly a need for this technology to be more universally accessible. Additionally, there are people who dislike using cameras due to privacy concerns, so we believe there is another solution to this problem that does not need a camera. # Solution Our solution is to create a device that will process the user’s head motions to control the cursor on whatever device they are using. This device will be attached to a hat which is more comfortable for the user than a headband and can balance the weight of the device and its battery more evenly. This device will track when the user turns their head up, down, left, and right to move the cursor on their screen accordingly, and then either read a head tilt to click or use an external button that is large enough for accessibility requirements. Although there are similar technologies on the market for this problem, we believe we can decrease the cost of the device (less than $150) and make it more universally accessible across devices. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Internal Measurement Unit (IMU) We will need an IMU to measure the head rotations of the user. This will include an angular velocity sensor (Gyroscope) and accelerometer that we can grab data from. Right now we are looking at the SCC1300-D02 gyroscope and the ADXL335 accelerometer. ## Subsystem 2: Power Supply We will make use of a standard battery pack to supply the power to our device. If needed, we can also include a voltage regulator in our PCB, depending on what the rated voltages of our components are. ## Subsystem 3: Interface We will be using a $10 USB Unifying Receiver, such as the Logitech 910-005235. This receiver will take in the cursor displacement data generated by on-board MCU that uses head position data from the IMU. ## Subsystem 4: Processing This subsystem will be purely software via a programmed microcontroller (Arduino). It will map the gyroscope and accelerometer data from the IMU to the position on the screen. We will need to include a calibration sequence right when the user puts on the hat so that each user’s difference in head movement can be compensated. # Criterion For Success Our solution will allow users to control the direction of the computer mouse by moving their head while wearing the hat with the IMU and power supply attached to it. The user will be able to move the mouse anywhere on the screen. They will be able to left-click by pressing the large button and they will be able to right-click by pressing the large button twice, or there will be specific head tilt movements implemented to control left and right clicking. One goal is for the total price of our device to not exceed $100 so that we can guarantee a sale price that is cheaper than the similar solutions that are already on the market. Another goal is for the device to be able to be universally used on most devices. If time allows, we have many ideas for additional features to be added to this device. One example is that the eye control feature of Windows only supports the US English keyboard, so we could expand this idea to other keyboards. |
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| 45 | RF-based Long-range Motion Recognition and Communication System |
James Tian Jason Zhang Joe Luo |
Vishal Dayalan | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Title RF-based Long-range Motion Recognition and Communication System Team Members: - Joe Luo (luo42) - Zekai Zhang (zekaiz2) - James Tian (zeyut2) # Problem While society accelerates into the digital age, an avid demand for more aggressively intimate ways of communication rises especially as the world welcomes a post-covid traumatic recovery. We witness the emergence of many novel products, albeit with mixed reception, that embrace this new concept, such as VR games, Metaverse, and holographic projection. It’s apparent that in modern days we crave information that goes beyond texts, videos, and sounds, but something mobile, three-dimensional, and interactive – for instance, transferring and reproducing motion across a long distance. It would be impossible if we want to shake hands with a friend that's located a mile apart from us. Aside from peer-to-peer communication, a long-range motion communication system can be useful in a variety of scenarios. In a classroom setting, whenever a Physics teacher wants to dig further into a relatively abstract concept, like lattice structure and electron concentration in materials, board and chalk and other variants are their only reliable helpers. However, it would be more engaging for both the lecturer and the learner to see a 3D presentation of the topic in question that's able to move and change at our commands. Likewise, a controller that's able to move extended robot arms can sometimes prove to be ineffective, as not everyone is acquainted with controller maneuvers. It will be much easier to understand and control if one is able to move the arm in real time with points of reference placed on limb joints that match the ones on the machine. Other utilities include but are not limited to workplace security, drone navigation, and smart home. All of which can and will be made simpler with a motion recognition and communication system. # Solution We propose a duo-terminal system that reads motion data and sends the encoded information through RF communication to the other terminal which deciphers the data and reproduces the motion in real-time with 3D software simulation or mechanical integration like a motor. Built upon a previous project that clones movement data generated from MEMS sensor measurements to 3D animation, we will still work with discreet accelerometer and gyroscope measurements with appropriate sampling rate to ensure a seamless recreation even in a wireless setting. Two PCBs are needed for each terminal. While most other components for this project will be printed to PCB, for the sake of flexibility of arrangement, IMUs, aka motion sensors, will preferably connect to the rest of the system via STEMMA QT or long wires. Unfettered from the confinement of circuit board, IMUs in free space can adapt to more situations and diversify the motions they can output. A great example is the VR controllers that accompany most VR headsets. # Solution Components ## Power Supply: Both RF components and MEMS sensors require a voltage of 3.3V. We will use AA batteries for the power supply, but onboard LDO from selected microcontrollers will help us control the output voltage. Both terminals use the same form of power supply. ## Motion-capturing Subsystem This system consists of two or more IMUs that are in free space. The LSM6DSO32 6-DoF Accelerometer and Gyroscope IC will fullfill the need. Since we are aiming to use STEMMA QT as the connector, the I2C communication protocol is favored. This subsystem in particular will likely reuse some of the codes and concepts developed in a previous project that can be found here: https://wiki.illinois.edu/wiki/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=785286420. ## RF Transmitter Subsystem Measurements from the registers of LSM6DSO32 will be sent to the Arduino or an SPI and I2C-enabled microcontroller that processes the information and packs them into a 16 to 32 bit code with at least 4 bits for position and 4 bits for rotation for each three-dimensional axis. The code sent via SPI interface will be transmitted wirelessly through RFM69HCW transceiver with external Antenna connector. ## RF Receiver Subsystem Information sent through the transmitter will be recovered by another RFM69HCW module connected to another SPI-enabled microcontroller. The microcontroller will analyze and unpack the code to extract the information and prepare the data for respective motion recreation. ## Motion Reproduction Subsystem The motion reproduction subsystem ideally consists of two major parts – software and hardware. The software section is realized by receiving data sent through the serial port from the microcontroller at the receiver’s end. The Unity 3D engine will decode the information and animate a 3D model in a fashion similar to the previous project done by Joe Luo mentioned above. (https://wiki.illinois.edu/wiki/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=785286420) The hardware component consists of a mechanical integration that’s able to recreate simple directional movements, like 3D printed structures or pulse-controlled continuous rotation servo motors (FS90R) that rotate on a 2D plane on a scale dependent on the degrees of rotation of MEMS sensors. # Criterion For Success Positional and rotational motions are captured through MEMS sensors and converted to human–readable data. RF system is able to function properly and transmits the aforementioned motion data from one device to another at least 0.8-1 mile apart. The reproduction system at the receiving end is able to dutifully repeat the motion set at the transmitting end on the software end for the minimum success criterion. If met, a 3D printed and/or motor-controlled hardware system can be built to further explore the potential of the project. |
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| 46 | Ambient Light Detection and Auto Dimming Smart Switch |
Christine Chung Michael Chen Spencer Robieson |
Sarath Saroj | Olga Mironenko | design_document3.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Christine Chung (jooyunc2) - Michael Chen (myc3) - Spencer Robieson (slr6) # Problem Most light switches are binary switches and do not have brightness control. There are dimmer switches that allow the user to control brightness, but they do not automatically adjust if the ambient light changes. Users may need to adjust the light if they are in the same room for a long period of time. # Solution We plan to create a smart switch that can be connected to any existing light switch (including no neutral connections) and intelligently control lights. Sensors on the switch will be able to detect the ambient light and adjust the brightness of the lights to maintain a constant room brightness. # Solution Components ## Ambient Light Detection Using sensors connected to the switch, the intensity of the ambient light/ sunlight will be detected. As sunlight decreases, the switch will use this measurement to maintain a constant brightness in the room without needing to adjust the switch. Part: TSL2561 luminosity sensor ## Desired Light Level Control The user will be able to use a dimmer to adjust the desired brightness of the room. Based on the setting of the dimmer and the existing ambient light, the microcontroller will adjust the lights to match the desired brightness level. This will also include an override switch to allow for absolute control of the lights, like with a normal dimmer switch. ## Ultrasonic Sensor One limitation of the ambient light sensing is that the reading would be affected dramatically if an object, like someone's hand, is covering the sensor. This would cause the light to increase brightness unnecessarily. To avoid this, we will include an ultrasonic sensor to check if there are any obstructions to the luminosity sensor. If so, the light will maintain it’s previous brightness setting until the obstruction is cleared and the switch can resume its normal operation. Part: HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Distance Sensor ## No Neutral Harvesting Circuit When wiring up a basic switch, there are two wires connected to the circuit with the hot wire connected through the switch and the neutral wire connected to the light fixture. With smart switches, it works exactly like a normal light switch except that the smart switch itself also needs power to operate. The hot wire goes through the switch and is controlled by the switch itself, but the neutral wire (typically in the switch junction box) must also go to the switch so it has power. In the case of older homes that do not have this infrastructure, upgrading to smart switches without reconstructing the wire connections would not be as viable. We want to design a smart switch that does not require the neutral wire connection to the switch. By modeling a AC thyristor/SCR circuit at the switch, we can control the power delivered to the load without the need for an external connection with the hot and neutral. # Criterion For Success - Work with any existing light fixture & switch (no neutral wire required) - Maintain constant light level for the room at desired brightness - Prevent unintended fluctuation caused by sensor obstructions - Have an override switch that allows for absolute control of the lights # Existing Solutions Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch: This smart wireless light dimmer switch exists on the market to automatically adjust the light based on the seasons and also allow wireless remote control. This switch does not require a neutral wire and it can connect to many bulbs at once. However, we are differentiating from this product by including ambient lighting control. BenQ e-Reading Desk Lamp: This desk lamp has adaptive lighting based on ambient light but has a few limitations and differences from our idea. Firstly, our idea would increase efficiency for room lighting rather than personal desk lighting, in order to save energy. Secondly, the lamp on the market is over $200 so our solution will be much more affordable. Lastly, the lamp is designed to light a desk for studying but our project will allow users to set the desired brightness for our smart switch to target. |
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| 47 | Auto-following Luggage Platform |
David Chen Lyuxing He |
Xiangyuan Zhang | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Project Title: Auto-following Luggage Platform Team Members: - Lyuxing He (lyuxing2) - David Chen (sc60) # Problem Sometimes carrying the suitcase might be the most unsatisfactory part of a trip. This dissatisfaction can also grow into annoyance when the amount of luggage is too large to be carried with without the help of transportation tools. Therefore, people have dreamed about a suitcase that can track its owners automatically on its own, without any need of applying external force to steer it. There have been so-called “smart suitcases” made for sale with different features including USB-port for charging, GPS localization, etc. However, the price is too high for the public to afford, and only a few with exceedingly high prices might be capable of achieving the fully automatic following feature. Therefore, we propose the Auto-following Luggage Platform project that aims to solve the problem with much less cost compared to related products available in the market. # Solution We propose a robot platform that autonomously tracks and pursues its owner. It will use a camera as its primary sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor as a fail-safe of that. # Parts needed (we will be providing the funds for purchasing these) - Cuttable metal plate (for building ) - 4 DC motors - Battery - Camera - Rasberry Pie 4 4G - PCB (Motor control) - Ultrasonic sensor We’ll self-supply any additional materials not listed above. # Solution Components ## Robot drivetrain The drive will consist of 2/4 motors. It will take input PWM signals given by Rasberry Pi 4 and drive the motor accordingly. The drivetrain’s left and right motor will be independent, allowing the robot to turn with different speed on left and right. ## Control Algorithm Using the bounding box data calculated from the Human-body identification subsystem, we can calculate the deviation angle, and use PID to track and minimize this error. We will also use a separate algorithm to control the speed of the robot. Using an estimated distance value, we will speed up and slow down the robot accordingly as well. Combining these together and our robot should be able to track the target autonomously. ## Human-body identification subsystem We will use Yolo6 for human recognition and segmentation to produce bounding boxes. Each bounding box will be made into gait silhouettes and used for a gait-matching algorithm to identify the owner of the suitcase. The bounding box of the identified owner will be returned and used to calculate the offset to the camera center, which will be converted to motor signals for the control system to achieve local orientation adjustment. This subsystem will also return a boolean value that represents safety with respect to possible collisions. ## Safety assurance subsystem The ultrasonic sensor equipped will report the distance to obstacles. The robot will stop immediately if the ultrasonic sensor detects a very close object to avoid collisions. # Criterion For Success The machine is able to follow the owner when the owner is in the camera frame, and maintain a safe distance to the owner. The machine is able to locate the owner (put the owner back into the camera frame) autonomously when camera tracking is lost. The machine is able to avoid collisions with obstacles and humans. |
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| 48 | Electrochromic Bird-Friendly Windows |
Mary Rose Farruggio Owen Thamban Phoebe Chen |
Abhisheka Mathur Sekar | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| PROJECT TITLE: Electrochromatic Bird-Friendly Window Team Members: Mary Rose Farruggio (maryrf2) Phoebe Chen (phoebec2) Owen Thamban (thamban2) PROBLEM Each year, roughly one billion birds in the U.S. die due to collisions with windows (Loss n.p.). Even birds that are only temporarily stunned and fly away often die later due to bruising and internal bleeding. During the day, windows reflect the sky and foliage which can often seem inviting to birds. In the evenings the glass of windows is often invisible to birds and nocturnal migrants have the highest rates of window collision fatalities. SOLUTION We intend to make bird friendly windows that make the birds aware of the presence of a hard surface in front of them and will deter them from approaching. Our system will detect birds using ultrasonic sensors and image processing. Then, we will use electrochromic glass to turn the surface of the window in the section closest to the bird opaque so that the birds are aware of the surface’s presence. Furthermore, we will deter the birds from approaching once they are recognized by the camera by using quick-flashing ultraviolet light in the 300-380 nm spectrum, which is visible to birds but not humans. To demo the system we will use LEDs in the visible human range, but the final system will use UV LEDs of the correct frequency light emission. PARTS NEEDED -4 sample panels of electrochromic glass (We will be providing the funds to purchase these) -4 Ultrasonic sensors Digi-Key Part Number 1528-2711-ND : https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/adafruit-industries-llc/3942/9658069?utm_adgroup=Temperature%20Sensors%20-%20NTC%20Thermistors&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Product_Sensors%2C%20Transducers_NEW&utm_term=&utm_content=Temperature%20Sensors%20-%20NTC%20Thermistors&gclid=Cj0KCQiA8t2eBhDeARIsAAVEga3-LKmSwy4SyDMLpOr_Q5RPnhG3XU94vhnl-hMCGgMaYcTvqeA6XF4aAudnEALw_wcB -12 UV LEDs Digi-Key Part Number 1125-1281-ND: https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/marktech-optoelectronics/MTE340H41-UV/4965461?WT.z_cid=sp_1125_buynow&s=N4IgTCBcDaILIBUCiBmALABgBJoIwFoBVANRAF0BfIA&site=us -Custom PCB -Raspberry Pi (already acquired) -Arduino Uno (already acquired) -Access to a 3d printer for printing the window frame OVA VGA Camera Module (640x480 pixels; 30 fps) -Power Supply SOLUTION COMPONENTS IMAGE PROCESSING SUBSYSTEM When no objects are detected, we will use a camera to record an image of the grid every minute. If an object is detected we can compare the image pixels, delete the background, and use edge detection to make the bird’s outline standout. This will give us a more precise location for the approaching bird to direct our flashing UV light subsystem. MOTION SENSOR GRID SUBSYSTEM Our ideal design would incorporate ultrasonic sensors on the frame surrounding the electrochromatic panels. The frame will extend several inches in front of the panels that make up the window and the ultrasonic sensors will point across the window in both the horizontal and vertical directions. When the ultrasonic sensors detect a change in distance greater than some threshold amount (which will be determined experimentally later in development), it will mean some object (i.e., a bird) has crossed through the frame of the window. When an ultrasonic sensor detects such a disruption, it will send a signal to the PCB to initiate the flashing UV LEDs in that area. FLASHING ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT SUBSYSTEM Flashing lights are often used as an effective means of dispersing birds in unfavorable roosting areas, since they are effective but nonviolent. Our system will use UV LEDs with a peak wavelength of 340 nm. While birds can see light with frequencies from 300-400 nm, humans are only able to detect light with frequencies of 380-700 nm, so the flashing light pattern will be disruptive and act as a deterrent to the birds’ approach while having no effect on passing humans. The UV light subsystem will be activated only when an approaching bird is detected. ELECTROCHROMIC GLASS SUBSYSTEM When a bird is detected by the ultrasonic sensors within a certain section of the window, that section will turn from transparent to opaque by changing the voltage across the electrochromatic panel. The ultrasonic sensors will be placed at regular intervals along the x and y axis of the window frame, such that by knowing which ultrasonic sensors have detected a change in distance we can locate the section of the window which the bird has approached. By turning only a section of the window opaque rather than the entire window, we hope to create less of a disruption for individuals within the building. CRITERION FOR SUCCESS The system can successfully detect when a bird is approaching or in close proximity. The system can turn the correct electrochromatic panel opaque. The system can direct ultraviolet light in the 300-380 nm range at an approaching bird. LINK TO WEB BOARD https://courses.engr.illinois.edu/ece445/pace/view-topic.asp?id=72512 SOURCES Loss, Scott R., et al. “Bird–Building Collisions in the United States: Estimates of Annual Mortality and Species Vulnerability.” The Condor, vol. 116, no. 1, 2014, pp. 8–23., https://doi.org/10.1650/condor-13-090.1. “The Science behind Sageglass.” SageGlass, https://www.sageglass.com/products/how-electrochromic-glass-works. |
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| 49 | Smart Meat Defroster |
Ben Civjan Brad Palagi Payton Thompson |
Prannoy Kathiresan | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Smart Meat Defroster ## Team Members: - Payton Thompson, pthomp22 - Brad Palagi, bpalagi2 - Ben Civjan, bcivjan2 ## Problem: Defrosting meat is a very tedious process. There are a few tactics to do so all with their own issues. One can leave the meat in the fridge to thaw, but that takes around two days. Next, one can heat the meat in the microwave, but that results in the meat being partially cooked and frozen. Also, one can run water over the meat to help defrost, but it is a hands-on process that still takes a while to do. Lastly, one can leave the meat out on a [defroster plate](https://www.amazon.com/Evelots-Rapid-Defrosting-Frozen-Naturally/dp/B01K3A5X26?th=1), but the length of time varies with the quality of the plate, and it is required that the meat is used very soon after defrosting since it is outside the refrigerator. ## Solution: We propose a meat defrost container that resides in a refrigerator so that the meat is quickly defrosted and kept below 40 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. Once the meat is defrosted, the container will use a fan to recirculate the inside air to keep the food at a safe temperature. This will maintain freshness and prevent bacteria from growing if the container is in the refrigerator. Also, It can also be used outside of the refrigerator for quick defrosting and immediate use. The container would use a heating device above and a conductive plate beneath to defrost the meat, while a heat sensor uses the surface temperature of the meat to detect when it has defrosted. This allows for a hands-off, quick and versatile approach to defrosting meats. Solution Components: ## Heat Subsystem: In order to provide fast defrosting, we need to implement a power system to support the heating of the container. Since our system is designed to be portable, we will rely on battery power for heating. We anticipate that battery power will be sufficient since our product isn’t meant to reach very high temperatures (like a toaster/oven for instance). The heating element we will use is a conductive heating coil. This will be wrapped around the inside of the container in a way such that the user can’t easily burn themselves. ## Ventilation Subsystem: Since we want to prevent the meat from reaching above 40 degrees Fahrenheit (as per FDA safety regulations), we need a way to replace the hot air inside the container with the colder outside air in the refrigerator. For this, we will use a small fan that is activated by our sensor system and draws power from the battery. ## Sensor Subsystem: Our sensor subsystem will be connected via PCB to moderate the ventilation and heat subsystems. We plan to use an infrared temperature sensor such as an [Omron Electronics D6T Series MEMS Thermal Sensor](https://www.mouser.com/c/?marcom=103485542). The sensor will be placed at the top of our Defrosting container and will be used to automatically monitor the temperature of the meat being defrosted. There are a few differences amongst the models of these thermal sensors which we will use to select the one we order in the future. First is the operating temperature, we plan to allow for this device to be used inside a refrigerator or in a room temperature area. Some of these sensors are rated for a minimum of 0 C, but others are rated up to a minimum temperature of -40 C. All of these options appear like we should not have an issue with overheating. The accuracy of this sensor is also important as we need to ensure the temperature of the meat remains below 5 C. Some sensors are accurate +/- 3 C and others are +/- 1.5 C. We will have to consider this accuracy to ensure safe food temperatures. Also, of course, we will consider costing to ensure we create a low-cost design. ## Display Subsystem: To allow the user to interface with our product, we will offer a user-friendly digital display. This will show the current temperature of the meat, allowing the user to see the progress of the defrost. It will also include a power button so the user can turn the device on/off. We are keeping the user interaction to a minimum to make the defroster as simple and intuitive as possible. ## Criterion for Success: - The container is refrigerator and heat safe - Hot air within the container is removed once defrosting is complete - The meat stays at a safe internal temperature - The meat is defrosted faster than at room temperature - Heat sensor data gives a safe estimation of internal temperature ## Potential Enhancements: - Easy-to-store design - The compact form factor is easier to store inside and outside of the fridge - Interchangeable Rechargeable battery - To allow for immediate reuse after an item has been defrosted rather than waiting for the entire device to recharge - Estimated time of defrosting remaining - Add to the current temperature display, or design a mobile app - Add weight sensor to have more accuracy with defrost time calculation |
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| 50 | Smart Pillow |
Aniketh Aangiras Karan Samat Trusha Vernekar |
Akshatkumar Sanatbhai Sanghvi | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # TITLE: Smart Pillow # TEAM MEMBERS: - Karan Samat (karanas2) - Aniketh Aangiras (aniketh3) - Trusha Vernekar (tnv2) # PROBLEM As technology advances, more people tend to use devices such as their phones or laptops right before going to bed. Studies have shown that sleep is affected drastically due to the use of technology in the hour before going to bed. People have reported less satisfactory sleep which causes them to be sleepier during the day. Some studies have also shown that bright screens can have an impact on alertness which can lead to users having disrupted sleep more often. Repeated dissatisfactory and disrupted sleep can lead to conditions such as sleep apnea. This is a growing concern due to the increase in the use of technology and can be dangerous. The signs that a person is not having satisfactory sleep can be loud snoring and frequent changes in sleeping positions. One way that can improve sleep is by listening to relaxing music or some peaceful podcasts. However, you cannot be sure when you would be having disrupted sleep. Smartwatches do a good job of detecting your sleep cycle but they must be charged very often and they are not able to help you improve your sleep. # SOLUTION To fix the above-stated problems, we propose the implementation of a smart pillow. Through this smart pillow, we aim to not just track sleeping habits, but also improve them. We will track the sleeping habits of the user through the following sensors: touch sensor, audio sensor, and pressure sensor. In addition to these sensors, we will also use a Bluetooth speaker that can play white noise or any other sounds/music that the user feels comfortable with to aid sleep. The audio sensor will be used to detect snoring. The touch sensor will be used together with the pressure sensor to determine the various sleeping positions of the user. This will then help us determine the quality of sleep of the user at each sleeping position. We believe that our idea stands out from what is already available today through the usage of the Bluetooth speaker system and the fact that this is more cost-effective. Most devices that are currently available include mattresses and smartwatches. However, these are significantly more expensive and do not provide a speaker system. We will be using a power system to regulate the power of each sensor subsystem. Hence we will have to use a PCB since it contains all the logic related to the sensors and the power modules. # SOLUTION COMPONENTS ## SUBSYSTEM 1 : THIN FILM PRESSURE SENSOR SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will help detect if a person is moving in their sleep. Many pressure sensors will be uniformly scattered across the pillow to detect minute changes in motion which will be reinforced by the touch sensors. Components: Pressure Sensor ## SUBSYSTEM 2 : TOUCH SENSOR SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will help detect if a person is moving in their sleep. Many touch sensors will be uniformly scattered across the pillow to detect minute changes in motion reinforced by the pressure sensors. Components: Touch sensor ## SUBSYSTEM 3 : AUDIO SENSOR SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will help detect snoring and will have to filter out noise. It will be enabled if the speaker is switched off or will start up after the speaker plays out for 1 hour. Components: audio sensor ## SUBSYSTEM 4 : BLUETOOTH SPEAKER SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will connect to a phone/device and allow the user to play the music of their choice. This can be a podcast or something similar. As an isolated system, it will be expected to play the sound until stopped by the user. Components: Stereo Bluetooth module, SMD amplifier, lithium-ion battery module, sliding switch, 3W speaker ## SUBSYSTEM 5 : POWER SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will be responsible to supply power to the different components of the device. Components: Lithium-ion battery module, USB charger/port, Battery controller, Boost/buck converters # CRITERION FOR SUCCESS - Detection Accuracy - We should be able to correctly detect the snoring sounds and change in sleep positions with a high enough accuracy. - Battery life - We will ensure that the battery life is enough to last the night and maybe more based on the hardware component choice. - Comfort - The pillow, after the addition of the sensors, should still be flexible and light. It should allow for good sleep. |
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| 51 | Easy Bake PCB's |
Bhaven Shah Raghav Narasimhan Zak Kaminski |
Prannoy Kathiresan | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal3.pdf |
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| # Easy Bake PCB's Team Members: - Bhaven Shah (bhaven2) - Zak Kaminski (zak5) - Raghav Narasimhan (rnn3) # Problem Often for my RSO, Illini Solar Car, we have to hand solder very small SMD components such as 0603 or even 0402 imperial codes. This often leads to failures on our boards as solder joints fail causing the entire board to short. This negatively affects our team’s performance during our races as we then have to repair the car by finding the source of the issue and then replacing that board. This costs us valuable time in our race as we want to be driving every possible second we are allowed to keep us competitive. Soldering is also a skilled activity, meaning many hours are required to become proficient. These are hours students are losing to work on other projects or school work. Having a reflow oven would save many hours of labor which can be used for design reviews or designing new PCBs. # Solution Our solution is to build a custom reflow oven by converting a toaster oven. While this is an item that you can commercially purchase off the shelf, it is not something that our team can fully justify the cost of as good reflow ovens can cost north of $300 USD. Also there are a couple of commercially available products that you can purchase to modify your toaster oven, but they are never in stock to purchase. As there is a parts shortage, we will have to design our own conversion kit that can be built with readily available components. Our reflow oven will also include an alert system that utilizes video to determine if a component has slid out of place. This is something that current commercially available reflow ovens do not include and will be cheap enough that even enthusiasts could build one themselves. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 - Thermocouple: https://www.adafruit.com/product/269 https://www.digikey.com/en/products/base-product/maxim-integrated/175/MAX31855/82847 The thermocouple system will be used to continually monitor the temperature inside of the toaster oven. Temperature is critical when soldering and ensuring that you have the right temperature will provide excellent results as the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC) Solid State Technology Association has published documentation on “profiles” for reflow soldering that require precise temperatures. ## Subsystem 2 - Camera: The camera subsystem will be added to constantly monitor the reflow process. It will be a check that ensures that no components are moving during the process causing bad joints to be formed and will immediately stop if it detects that a component has moved too far from its original position. ## Subsystem 3 - Heating & Fan Control: It is extremely important to use a heating device that produces precise changes in temperature and responds quickly to desired changes in temperature. The fan is also important to not allow the components to overheat. ## Subsystem 4 - Touchscreen: Used for easy user interaction with the reflow oven in order to set the user’s desired temperature and duration as well as to give visual feedback to the user. ## Subsystem 5 - Power Supply: Wall outlet and will be converted to the desired range for the on-system chips. ## Subsystem 6 - Microcontroller: Will take in the temperature and camera data to determine when to turn on or off the fans, when to increase or decrease the temperature in the reflow oven, and alert when the components move in an undesirable fashion. It will also control the touchscreen. # Criterion For Success * Reflow solder PCBs with 10% margin of error * Detect when a component covers less than 70% of the pad and alert the user (further testing required to determine how far a component is allowed to move and still be viable) |
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| 52 | STRE&M: Automated Urinalysis (Pitched Project) |
Adrian Jimenez Gage Gulley Yichi Zhang |
Abhisheka Mathur Sekar | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Gage Gulley (ggulley2) - Adrian Jimenez (adrianj2) - Yichi Zhang (yichi7) The STRE&M: Automated Urinalysis project was pitched by Mukul Govande and Ryan Monjazeb in conjunction with the Carle Illinois College of Medicine. #Problem: Urine tests are critical tools used in medicine to detect and manage chronic diseases. These tests are often over the span of 24 hours and require a patient to collect their own sample and return it to a lab. With this inconvenience in current procedures, many patients do not get tested often, which makes it difficult for care providers to catch illnesses quickly. The tedious process of going to a lab for urinalysis creates a demand for an “all-in-one” automated system capable of performing this urinalysis, and this is where the STRE&M device comes in. The current prototype is capable of collecting a sample and pushing it to a viewing window. However, once it gets to the viewing window there is currently not an automated way to analyze the sample without manually looking through a microscope, which greatly reduces throughput. Our challenge is to find a way to automate the data collection from a sample and provide an interface for a medical professional to view the results. # Solution Our solution is to build an imaging system with integrated microscopy and absorption spectroscopy that is capable of transferring the captured images to a server. When the sample is collected through the initial prototype our device will magnify and capture the sample as well as utilize an absorbance sensor to identify and quantify the casts, bacteria, and cells that are in the sample. These images will then be transferred and uploaded to a server for analysis. We will then integrate our device into the existing prototype. # Solution Components ## Subsystem1 (Light Source) We will use a light source that can vary its wavelengths from 190-400 nm with a sampling interval of 5 nm to allow for spectroscopy analysis of the urine sample. ## Subsystem2 (Digital Microscope) This subsystem will consist of a compact microscope with auto-focus, at least 100x magnification, and have a digital shutter trigger. ## Subsystem3 (Absorbance Sensor) To get the spectroscopy analysis, we also need to have an absorbance sensor to collect the light that passes through the urine sample. Therefore, an absorbance sensor is installed right behind the light source to get the spectrum of the urine sample. ## Subsystem4 (Control Unit) The control system will consist of a microcontroller. The microcontroller will be able to get data from the microscope and the absorbance sensor and send data to the server. We will also write code for the microcontroller to control the light source. ESP32-S3-WROOM-1 will be used as our microcontroller since it has a built-in WIFI module. ## Subsystem5 (Power system) The power system is mainly used to power the microcontroller. A 9-V battery will be used to power the microcontroller. # Criterion For Success - The overall project can be integrated into the existing STRE&M prototype. - There should be wireless transfer of images and data to a user-interface (either phone or computer) for interpretation - The system should be housed in a water-resistant covering with dimensions less than 6 x 4 x 4 inches |
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| 53 | Line Operated Variable Voltage Power Supply |
Cesar Mejia Feroze Butt Kevin Funkhouser |
Matthew Qi | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Kevin Funkhouser (ktf3) - Cesar Mejia (cmejia6) - Feroze Butt (fabutt2) # **Problem**: Many low-cost bench power supplies are noisy with bad accuracy and are sometimes unsafe. Even the top positive reviews of Amazon’s best-selling bench power supply (Kungber 30V 10A) have serious complaints about its performance, such as drift, inaccurate display readings, excessive voltage error, and outright failure. Low-cost bench supplies with poor power factors inject harmonics into the power lines, and their switching noise and other distortions can disrupt precision circuits. Additionally, basic protections are sometimes lacking, leading to unsafe conditions that could damage the supply, the circuit, or you. # Solution: We intend to build a line operated variable voltage power supply that is relatively low cost. To provide for low cost, isolation, and high efficiency, isolated switched mode conversion will be used in order to correct the power factor, as well as to ultimately transform the voltage from line levels down to the selected voltages while providing for the output error specifications. Its subsystems will include the input rectification & power factor correction, isolated switched mode conversion, feedback & control, and thermal & overcurrent protection. Its output should be adjustable from 5V to 25V at 50W, at less than 1000ppm total deviation under a static full load. # Solution Components: The solution components are pretty general for now because we haven’t zeroed in on all of the exact circuits we would like to use, which often informs the component selection. With the exception of the switching transformer and case & hardware, we have found a plethora of suitable devices for each list item. There are more details on possible topologies and selections under each of the subsections. EMI filter Rectifier diodes Power inductors and capacitors PFC boost controller IC SMPS control IC Precision voltage reference & divider elements Switching FETs & diodes Heat sinks Case & hardware Switching transformer Thermal sensor Current sense IC MCU & associated hardware General jellybean circuit elements and connectors # Subsystem 1: Input Rectification and Power Factor Correction The current proposed system entails an EMI filter followed by a full bridge rectifier. The rectified output is then boosted to a 250VDC intermediate bus, which is later switched down to output levels. There are a variety of chips that can control a boost converter for PFC use, such as the UCC28180. The EMI filter will likely consist of simple protection TVS or zener diodes and a ferrite. It is of note that there will be a fuse and a power switch “upstream” of this subsystem. This circuit should meet IEC 61000-3-2 standards for line harmonic current. # Subsystem 2: Isolated DC-DC Converter This regulated converter will transform from 250VDC down to the desired voltage. This converter must be galvanically isolated, i.e. uses a transformer or coupled inductors. The topology could possibly be a bridge, forward, or flyback converter. A possible control chip for this application is the NCP1252. A fortified output filter, with possible topologies of a capacitance multiplier or a noise clipper circuit, will provide thorough output regulation and good transient response. # Subsystem 3: Feedback and Control The switching signals for the converters must be generated using feedback from both the 250V bus and the output. Some of these signals must be isolated, likely by means of optocouplers. Control signal generation can be MCU or analog control chip based, though for the PFC and DC-DC modules we plan to choose analog (or digital controllers that act like analog) as they are both good and common these days. For display processing and input control, we plan to use an MCU to encode the sensed current and voltage for display on a simple screen such as the seven-segment. The MCU we will select depends on whether we decide to originate the voltage reference through digital means (e.g. a digital potentiometer dividing a precision reference) or analog means, as this may or may not require an ADC onboard. Though we currently do not plan to use any digital control schemes for switching logic, protection, or feedback, this is a very powerful tool we could integrate, if necessary, at a later time using a hybrid digital logic/analog control scheme. # Subsystem 4: Protection There must be a method to measure, determine, and protect against thermal overload conditions via a thermal sensor directly coupled to the limiting semiconductors. There also must be a current sense and response to overcurrent conditions, both transient and steady state. Current and heat sensing and managing are well detailed issues with many possible solutions. We believe the selection of particular topologies and devices should come after more deliberation on the exact converter topologies so that the failsafes respect the failure modes of the system. Additionally, it must be said that the first line of defense against overcurrent and overheating conditions is solid thermal management, proper device selection, and judicious board and circuit design. # Subsystem 5: Switches and Fuses and Dials This instrument will need to be operable. It will need to have a case with adequate venting and heatsink capabilities, a three prong plug with strain relief and perhaps a ferrite bead, a fused input, and a power switch. Shielding will be investigated. It will also need to have simple displays to tell real time voltage and current conditions. There must be a dial or buttons to select voltage, and banana plugs or other connectors for power, ground, and earth. Other indicators must include a power good LED as well as a power bad LED. # Criteria for Success: - Power Factor >0.9 & IEC 61000-3-2 standards for harmonic current - Deliver 5V - 25V at 50W with 0.1% accuracy to a static load across the whole voltage range - Able to detect and correct a thermal overload - Able to detect and correct a current overload, including short circuit protection - Galvanic isolation - User ability to select a voltage - Display the current and voltage supplied - Costs < $200 |
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| 54 | Affordable Portable MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer |
David Gutzwiller Richard Engel Sujay Murali |
Akshatkumar Sanatbhai Sanghvi | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Richard Engel (reengel2) - Sujay Murali (sujaym2) - David Gutzwiller (davidjg3) # PROBLEM One desirable quality for musical production instruments is portability. For many production setups, it can be difficult for musicians to take all of their gear with them, so it's convenient for them to own a robust portable synthesizer keyboard. However, another issue is the cost. There are many options available for compact portable synthesizers, but they tend to be hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This is especially intimidating for anyone trying to get into music production. # SOLUTION Our proposal is for a low-cost keyboard synthesizer. The instrument is both simple enough to save on cost, but also has enough features to be highly versatile for musicians. The keyboard would feature two octaves of range with an octave changer and pitch bend wheel, along with input knobs for volume, waveform synthesis, and ADSR envelope. These features would be enough to make this a cheap but robust portable instrument for any producer. # SOLUTION COMPONENTS ## USER INPUT User input would consist of one octave of keyboard keys, an octave changer and pitch bend wheel, and nine input knobs. One knob would be for volume, four would be for basic waveform synthesis (sine, square, sawtooth, triangle), and the last four would control an Attack Decay Sustain Release (ADSR) envelope for the notes. Each key will have two sensors: one sensor or switch to detect when a key is pressed, and one sensor to read the velocity of that key when pressed. Each input knob would be a potentiometer. The octave changer would also have switches to activate, and the pitch bend wheel would be bought off the shelf. ## CONTROL A microcontroller would take in the input values and velocities from key presses along with the volume, waveform, and ADSR knobs to generate and output sound and midi messages. ## OUTPUT The output would consist of both a built-in speaker that can directly transmit sound from the device and a USB port that can hook up to a computer that would transmit MIDI messages from the instrument. ## POWER Power would be provided either by a rechargeable battery built into the instrument or by a power supply plugged into the wall that would both power the device and charge the battery. There would also be an LED indicator displaying battery life/charging. # CRITERIA FOR SUCCESS - All keys, knobs, ports, and indicators are functional - Outputs audio through a built-in speaker - Outputs MIDI via USB to computer - Battery lasts at least 3 hours |
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| 55 | Glove For Programmable Prosthetic Hand |
Quang Nguyen Ryan Metzger Sohil Pokharna |
Sainath Barbhai | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Project Title: Glove For Programmable Prosthetic Hand Team Members: - Quang Nguyen quangpn2 - Sohil Pokhara sohilp2 - Ryan Metzger rtm4 Problem Modern robotic prosthetics may achieve fine motor control through predefined hand motions encoded into the prosthetic. Modern prosthetics may have the ability to save preset positions but don’t have the ability to adjust and tweak positions on the fly. We plan to implement a hardware/software solution that is able to measure the positions of a functional organic hand and translate this motion into a prosthetic hand in order for this prosthetic to mimic this motor control on the move. With features such as mirroring we are able to have 2 hands, 1 organic and simulated prosthetic, we are able to introduce a level of dynamic programmability. Also introducing multiple preset positions through organic hand gestures, the user can recall most used positions for convenience. By adding sensors to individual fingers, we can combine combinations of gestures in order to control the prosthetic beyond mirror mode and be able to change the preset positions using these gesture controls. Solution We propose to create a glove with flex sensors and hall effects that can measure the motion of the fingers and detect gestures that the user gives. From this the user can then control a robotic hand with their organic hand making it easier to adjust position as well as record motions for the robotic hand to execute. Subsystem 1: Processing/Communication Unit Microcontroller - Responsible for interpreting sensor data from the gesture detection unit. Also supplies voltage to the sensors. Flash Memory - Store the recallable positions when the glove is turned off. Bluetooth- Used to relay microcontroller commands to the hand. Subsystem 2: Motion/Gesture Detection Unit Flex Sensors- Used to measure the positions/motion profile of each finger. Hall Effect Sensors Used for gesture control to recall preset positions, program new positions, and activate various modes such as mirroring. Magnet on thumb, hall sensors on tip of digits creating 4 digital inputs. Subsystem 3: Power Battery- Provides power to the entire system. Power Regulation- Provides regulated voltages to other components Subsystem 4: Physical/Digital Hand Used to demonstrate capabilities of a project. Usure if using a digital model or a physical model. Digital Approach- 3D Modeling Software(Unity) with access to computer Physical Approach- Continuous Servos, 3D Printed Parts, String Criterion for Success: The sensing glove is able to recognize and relay the accurate position of each digit, then the microcontroller is able to interpret and control the prosthetic. The sensing glove is able to relay and the controller can recognize individual gestures used for control of the prosthetic hand such as recalling predefined positions, activating various modes(mirror, programming, etc), various other functions of the hand such as power down etc. |
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| 56 | Smart Mugs - Drinking Habit Tracker |
Hani Al Majed Siqi Lu Srishti Modgil |
Selva Subramaniam | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| Team Members: - Srishti Modgil (smodgil2) - Siqi Lu (siqilu3) - Hani Al Majed (haniaa2) # Problem There is a problem with the inconvenience associated with maintaining the perfect temperature of beverages. Drinks can cool down quickly, making them no longer enjoyable. The need to reheat a drink can also be time consuming and inconvenient especially with a packed schedule. There is also a problem with waste. Disposable cups and reheating drinks can contribute to waste and negatively impact our environment. During our research, we found a smart mug called Embur Mug which can detect the temperature of the beverage and keeps it to a desired temperature. However, this mug is way too expensive for people to purchase with a price of 130 dollars. # Solution We propose the creation of a smart mug. Our design will improve the Embur Mug functionally and financially. Our mug will be equipped with a temperature control system that will automatically regulate the temperature of its contents to keep the drink at a desirable level. The mug will also have an app interface that will allow users to easily set up their preferred temperature, track their liquid intake and how fast they consume their liquid. The smart mug has the ability to keep drinks at the perfect drinking temperature and will eliminate the need for reheating. The smart mug will also track the amount of liquid in your cup at the moment. We will use a sensor to detect the weight of the liquid and display the number of ounces on your app. The smart mug not only improves the hot beverage drinking experience but also helps promote sustainable habits. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 Temperature Sensor - Will be integrating the industry standard temperature sensor by Maxim Integrated https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/analog-devices-inc.-maxim-integrated/DS18B20%2BT%26R/3478852?utm_adgroup=Sensors%2C%20Transducers&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Supplier_Maxim%20Integrated_8022_Co-op&utm_term=&utm_content=Sensors%2C%20Transducers&gclid=CjwKCAiAleOeBhBdEiwAfgmXf-hIaZj1YjASEiDZOg5dMMVtSrDlfEeoC1fjx_hQg3LjqtbzHDXz3xoCAXYQAvD_BwE - Senses the temperature of the liquid ## Subsystem 2 Microcontroller with Wifi transceiver - ESP8266 SoC board: standard Arduino generic microcontroller with a serial Wifi transceiver to regulate power, control the other subsystems, and send logs to a server that visualizes/analyzes data and handles app notifications. https://www.amazon.com/DIYmall-ESP8266-ESP-01S-Serial-Transceiver/dp/B00O34AGSU ## Subsystem 3 Warning System - LED indicating the temperature scale of the beverage (on the mug) - Send notification to phones if too hot or too cold. (user setting on the apps) ## Subsystems 4 Weight scale system - Displays the number of ounces of liquid in the mug - Give notification of refiling via LEDs on the mug ## Subsystems 5 Heating System - Maintaining the beverage to a desired temperature/healthy temperature. # Criterion for Success - Detecting the temperature of the beverage and showing it on the mug via LEDs. - Tracking drinking habits and visualizing the data on the apps - Tracking the amount of liquid in the mug and giving refilling notifications via LEDs on the mug. # Resources - Ember Mug: https://ember.com/products/ember-mug-2?variant=30843977826389&a=1&a=1&a=1&a=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAleOeBhBdEiwAfgmXf_lS8_LxedMdbgWazgfJ_4wzhcjqQ7uzlqpE1mobNka8gJXf2WwC5xoCeGAQAvD_BwE |
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| 57 | Electronic Dog Teeth Cleaning Toy |
Angela Jiang Yilong Zhang Youhan Li |
Selva Subramaniam | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Electric Dog Teeth Cleaning Toy Team Members: - Angela Jiang (angelaj4) - Youhan Li (youhanl2) - Yilong Zhang (yilongz3) # Problem Many dog owners don’t put in the effort to manually brush their dog’s teeth more than a couple times a week. They either use a dog teeth cleaning treat or liquid that can remove some of the plaque rather than all. Nowadays, at least 80% of dogs over the age of three have oral problems [1]. To combat this pet health issue, dog owners need a tool that is able to conveniently clean dog’s teeth and regulate the frequency of cleaning. # Solution The solution we have is to develop a log-shaped electric dog toy that is capable of cleaning the dog’s teeth and monitor the cleaning. Treats are used as the incentive to interest the dog to continue biting the toy. The treat will come out after each cleaning is complete. The dog toy has a nylon bone casing, covered in dog-safe toothbrush or silicone bristles. Under the exterior cover, there is a layer of pressure sensor for biting force sensing. Internally, the toy is equipped with a vibration motor that will create moderate motions in the dog’s mouth for cleaning. When turned on and being bitten, the toy will vibrate and adjust the force according to the data from the pressure sensor. Also, the toy has a timer. When the recommended cleaning time is reached, the toy will cease cleaning and release a treat. The toy then enters a sleep state and stops responding to biting until a preset time interval has passed. After recess time, the toy will be available for cleaning again. Overall, the dog will be able to play with the toy and get their teeth cleaned 2 times a day. A visual depiction of our concept can be found in this link: https://notability.com/n/2sY7_QoKl0fOiddgZskVmi. # Solution Components ## Sensor Subsystem The dog toy will be using several flexible film pressure sensors that will be wrapped around the nylon bone casing and underneath the thick bristles. The pressure sensors are quintessentially resistors that change resistance according to the applied pressure. Each sensor will be connected in series with a fixed-value resistor to the supply voltage. This forms a voltage divider, and the voltage across the pressure sensors serve as analog inputs to the microcontroller. By characterizing the pressure-resistance or pressure-voltage relationship, we can determine the applied force using an algorithm programmed in the microcontroller. ## Control Subsystem The dog toy will be using an ATmega328P microcontroller as its control system. The input of the controller will be data from the pressure sensor. When pressure data exceeds a certain threshold, indicating that the dog is biting the toy, the microcontroller will send a signal to the vibration motor to start the vibration process and start counting the actual brushing time. An algorithm will be developed to calculate the target teeth brushing time according to the pressure that the sensor reads when the dog is biting the toy. When the actual brushing time exceeds the daily target brushing time(~3 minutes, twice a day), the microcontroller will stop the vibration, send another signal to the treat dispensing subsystem to dispense the treats, and light up the LED to indicate that the end of brushing process is reached. The control system will have three states: IDLE - When the toy is powered but the data read by the pressure sensor doesn’t exceed the threshold. This occurs when the brushing is either not started or not complete. The microcontroller will be powered to record time with a memory, to keep the maximum brushing time on a daily basis. VIBRATION - When the dog is biting the toy and daily brushing time hasn’t been exceeded by actual brushing time. The microcontroller will tell the motor to vibrate and record the pressure data for calculation. COMPLETE - The target brushing time has been reached. The system will turn back to idle, but it will first dispense treats, and light up the LED to indicate its state. ## Treat Dispensing Subsystem The dog toy will be able to dispense treats after the dog has finished brushing their teeth. The dispensing system will be adopting the mechanical principle of a PEZ candy dispenser, so that only one treat comes out at a time. The treat release is controlled by the microcontroller and the spring will be pressed on a pressure sensor to detect when there are no more treats left. This will light up an LED to let the owner know it’s time to refill the dispenser. ## State Indication Subsystem The state indication subsystem consists of a RGB 4-pin LED and 3 current-limiting resistors. The LED is controlled by the microcontroller to produce the corresponding colors for different states by blending the three colors. A different color is assigned for each of the states described in the Control Subsystem section. ## Power Subsystem The power subsystem consists of one 9-V alkaline battery, one 3.3-V linear voltage regulator and one 5-V linear voltage regulator. The purpose of the subsystem is to provide proper supply voltage to other subsystems. The 9-V battery directly powers the vibration motor driver while providing input voltage to the linear voltage regulators. The 3.3-V DC voltage will power the programmer and the state-indicating LEDs. The 5-V DC voltage would be the supply to the microcontroller, the camera module and the pressure sensor. # Criterion For Success -The dog toy will be able to brush away most of the plaque through the vibration of the bristles. -The dog toy will be able to accurately stop vibrating and dispense a treat after three minutes, two times a day. -The electronic system will be solid enough to withstand the vibration. # Reference [1] K. B. Enlund et al., “Dog Owners’ Perspectives on Canine Dental Health—A Questionnaire Study in Sweden,” Front. Vet. Sci., vol. 7, p. 298, Jun. 2020, doi: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00298. |
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| 58 | Predictive Plant Care |
Charlotte Fondren Thomas Wolf Tom Danielson |
Selva Subramaniam | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Predictive Plant Care Team Members: - Charlotte Fondren (fondren3) - Thomas Wolf (tpwolf2) - Tom Danielson (tsd3) # Problem Plants can be a great decoration, giving life to any room they are in and making the room more homely. However, plants have a wide variety of factors that impact how well they grow such as amount of water, light, soil pH, and nutrients in the soil. Moreover, each plant requires a different amount of these different factors. This can make taking care of a plant difficult, especially for those that might forget to water the plant as needed. # Solution A device that takes care of the plant on its own would eliminate the need to depend on somebody to remember to take care of the plant. By measuring the previously mentioned factors (water, light, soil pH, and nutrients in the soil), a plant can be taken care of and live without the need for somebody to act. This would not only provide the plant with required nourishments on a set rate, but also keep a record of how the plant uses its nutrients and use that past record to predict an optimal replenishing cycle. Through the use of a PID controller, water can be administered to the plant predictively. # Solution Components ## Microcontroller The microcontroller is the key component of this system. All sensors will feed back into this and the microcontroller will tell which subsystems when to dispense their respective resources. For water, a PID controller will be implemented such that a signal to dispense water will be sent out predictively instead of relying just on the moisture sensor. Light will be on or off based on a timer and natural lighting, and fertilizer will be dispensed at specific times dependent on the plant’s recommended care. Any other resources such as the pH corrector will be dispensed when the sensor reading goes below a certain threshold. ## Water Dispenser The first part of this consists of a moisture sensor. This sensor will update the microcontroller with the amount of moisture in the soil, and a signal from the microcontroller will allow a valve or some mechanism connected to a water tank to briefly open and give the soil moisture when the soil moisture goes below a certain threshold. ## Light This subsystem will be controlled by the microcontroller. The light will receive a signal that will tell it when to turn on and off. The duration of the time can be edited as needed. A low wattage light bulb and a 2-pin adapter will be used to allow this to connect directly to our device and not need to be plugged into the wall. We will test the lightbulb before using it in the device to see how much light the bulb will give the plant and adjust the duration based on each plant’s needs. A light-detecting circuit will also be built such that if there is a significant amount of natural light, the device will adjust the light duration so as to not overwhelm the plant with light. ## Nutrient Dispenser Fertilizer containing essential nutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium will be dispensed to the plant on a regular basis, which will be tailored to each plant’s specific needs. Generally, fertilizer should be administered to potted plants monthly. ## pH Corrector We want to have a pH sensor that is checking the pH of the soil often (could be continuous or every hour or so) and constantly giving back a pH value. If this value is too low (i.e. 7.5 for most plants) during a given test, the soil will be supplemented once again with the right chemicals or nutrients to change the pH (reduced with elemental sulfur, sulfuric acid or aluminum sulfate, and raised with dolomite lime or agricultural lime) until the soil is at a good pH once again. These materials to help alter the pH will be available on hand and will be added in automatically by the system. ## Power Supply The power will come from being plugged into a wall and providing power to the microcontroller. The microcontroller will then provide power to all of the other components. A power converter will allow us to obtain power from any standard outlet and supply it to the system. # Criterion For Success - Water is able to be administered predictively - Nutrients, water, and pH-adjusting compounds are administered on their own - Light level is able to be detected and adjust based on the presence of natural light |
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| 59 | Bracelet Aid for deaf people/hard of hearing |
Aarushi Biswas Anit Kapoor Yash Gupta |
Sarath Saroj | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # PROJECT TITLE: Bracelet Aid for deaf people/hard of hearing # TEAM MEMBERS: - Aarushi Biswas (abiswas7) - Anit Kapoor (anityak3) - Yash Gupta (yashg3) # PROBLEM We are constantly hearing sounds around us that notify us of events occurring, such as doorbells, fire alarms, phone calls, alarms, or vehicle horns. These sounds are not enough to catch the attention of a d/Deaf person and sometimes can be serious (emergency/fire alarms) and would require the instant attention of the person. In addition, there are several other small sounds produced by devices in our everyday lives such as washing machines, stoves, microwaves, ovens, etc. that cannot be identified by d/Deaf people unless they are observing these machines constantly. Many people in the d/Deaf community combat some of these problems such as the doorbell by installing devices that will cause the light in a room to flicker. However, these devices are generally not installed in all rooms and will also obviously not be able to notify people if they are asleep. Another common solution is purchasing devices like smartwatches that can interact with their mobile phones to notify them of their surroundings, however, these smartwatches are usually expensive, do not fulfill all their needs, and require nightly charging cycles that diminish their usefulness in the face of the aforementioned issues. # SOLUTION A low-cost bracelet aid with the ability to convert sounds into haptic feedback in the form of vibrations will be able to give d/Deaf people the independence of recognizing notification sounds around them. The bracelet will recognize some of these sounds and create different vibration patterns to catch the attention of the wearer as well as inform them of the cause of the notification. Additionally, there will be a visual component to the bracelet in the form of an OLED display which will provide visual cues in the form of emojis. The bracelet will also have buttons for the purpose of stopping the vibration and showing the battery on the OLED. For instance, when the doorbell rings, the bracelet will pick up the doorbell sound after filtering out any other unnecessary background noise. On recognizing the doorbell sound, the bracelet will vibrate with the pattern associated with the sound in question which might be something like alternating between strong vibrations and pauses. The OLED display will also additionally show a house emoji to denote that the house doorbell is ringing. # SOLUTION COMPONENTS Based on this solution we have identified that we need the following components: - INMP441 (Microphone Component) - Brushed ERM (Vibration Motor) - Powerboost 1000 (Power subsystem) - 1000 mAh LiPo battery x 2 (hot swappable) - SSD1306 (OLED display) ## SUBSYSTEM 1 → SOUND DETECTION SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will consist of a microphone and will be responsible for picking up sounds from the environment and conducting a real-time FFT on them. After this, we will filter out lower frequencies and use a frequency-matching algorithm to infer if a pre-programmed sound was picked up by the microphone. This inference will be outputted to the main control unit in real-time. ## SUBSYSTEM 2 → VIBRATION SUBSYSTEM This subsystem will be responsible for vibrating the bracelet on the wearer’s wrist. Using the vibration motor mentioned above, we should have a frequency range of 30Hz~500Hz, which should allow for the generation of a variety of distinguishable patterns. This subsystem will be responsible for the generation of the patterns and control of the motor, as well as prompting the Display subsystem to visualize the type of notification detected. ## SUBSYSTEM 3 → DISPLAY SUBSYSTEM The Display subsystem will act as a set of visual cues in addition to the vibrations, as well as a visual feedback system for user interactions. This system should not draw a lot of power as it will be active only when prompted by user interaction or by a recognized sound. Both of these scenarios are relatively uncommon over the course of a day, which means that the average power draw for our device should still remain low. ## SUBSYSTEM 4 → USER INTERACTION SUBSYSTEM This subsystem is responsible for the interaction of the user with the bracelet. This subsystem will include a set of buttons for tasks such as checking the charge left on the battery or turning off a notification. Checking the charge will also display the charge on the OLED display thus interacting and controlling the display subsystem as well. ## SUBSYSTEM 5 → POWER SUBSYSTEM This subsystem is responsible for powering the device. One of our success criteria is that we want long battery life and low downtime. In order to achieve this we will be using a power boost circuit in conjunction with two rechargeable 1000 mAh batteries. While one is charging the other can be used so the user doesn’t have to go without the device for more than a few seconds at a time. We are expecting our device to use anywhere from 20-50mA which would mean we get an effective use time of more than a day. The power boost circuit and LiPo battery’s JST connector allow the user to secure and quick battery swaps as well. # CRITERION FOR SUCCESS - The bracelet should accurately identify only the crucial sounds in the wearer’s environment with each type of sound having a fixed unique vibration + LED pattern associated with it - The vibration patterns should be distinctly recognizable by the wearer - Should be relatively low cost - Should have prolonged battery life (so the power should focus on only the use case of converting sound to vibration) - Should have a small profile and a sleek form factor |
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| 60 | Illini Voyager |
Cameron Jones Christopher Xu |
Sainath Barbhai | Arne Fliflet | design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Illini Voyager Team Members: - Christopher Xu (cyx3) - Cameron Jones (ccj4) # Problem Weather balloons are commonly used to collect meteorological data, such as temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind velocity at different layers of the atmosphere. These data are key components of today’s best predictive weather models, and we rely on the constant launch of radiosondes to meet this need. Most weather balloons cannot control their altitude and direction of travel, but if they could, we would be able to collect data from specific regions of the atmosphere, avoid commercial airspaces, increase range and duration of flights by optimizing position relative to weather forecasts, and avoid pollution from constant launches. A long endurance balloon platform also uniquely enables the performance of interesting payloads, such as the detection of high energy particles over the Antarctic, in situ measurements of high-altitude weather phenomena in remote locations, and radiation testing of electronic components. Since nearly all weather balloons flown today lack the control capability to make this possible, we are presented with an interesting engineering challenge with a significant payoff. # Solution We aim to solve this problem through the use of an automated venting and ballast system, which can modulate the balloon’s buoyancy to achieve a target altitude. Given accurate GPS positioning and modeling of the jetstream, we can fly at certain altitudes to navigate the winds of the upper atmosphere. The venting will be performed by an actuator fixed to the neck of the balloon, and the ballast drops will consist of small, biodegradable BBs, which pose no threat to anything below the balloon. Similar existing solutions, particularly the Stanford Valbal project, have had significant success with their long endurance launches. We are seeking to improve upon their endurance by increasing longevity from a power consumption and recharging standpoint, implementing a more capable altitude control algorithm which minimizes helium and ballast expenditures, and optimizing mechanisms to increase ballast capacity. With altitude control, the balloon has access to winds going in different directions at different layers in the atmosphere, making it possible to roughly adjust its horizontal trajectory and collect data from multiple regions in one flight. # Solution Components ## Vent Valve and Cut-down (Mechanical) A servo actuates a valve that allows helium to exit the balloon, decreasing the lift. The valve must allow enough flow when open to slow the initial ascent of the balloon at the cruising altitude, yet create a tight seal when closed. The same servo will also be able to detach or cut down the balloon in case we need to end the flight early. A parachute will deploy under free fall. ## Ballast Dropper (Mechanical) A small DC motor spins a wheel to drop [biodegradable BBs](https://www.amazon.com/Force-Premium-Biodegradable-Airsoft-Ammo-20/dp/B08SHJ7LWC/). As the total weight of the system decreases, the balloon will gain altitude. This mechanism must drop BBs at a consistent weight and operate for long durations without jamming or have a method of detecting the jams and running an unjamming sequence. ## Power Subsystem (Electrical) The entire system will be powered by a few lightweight rechargeable batteries (such as 18650). A battery protection system (such as BQ294x) will have an undervoltage and overvoltage cutoff to ensure safe voltages on the cells during charge and discharge. ## Control Subsystem (Electrical) An STM32 microcontroller will serve as our flight computer and has the responsibility for commanding actuators, collecting data, and managing communications back to our ground console. We’ll likely use an internal watchdog timer to recover from system faults. On the same board, we’ll have GPS, pressure, temperature, and humidity sensors to determine how to actuate the vent valve or ballast. ## Communication Subsystem (Electrical) The microcontroller will communicate via serial to the satellite modem (Iridium 9603N), sending small packets back to us on the ground with a minimum frequency of once per hour. There will also be a LED beacon visible up to 5 miles at night to meet regulations. We have read through the FAA part 101 regulations and believe our system meets all requirements to enable a safe, legal, and ethical balloon flight. ## Ground Subsystem (Software) We will maintain a web server which will receive location reports and other data packets from our balloon while it is in flight. This piece of software will also allow us to schedule commands, respond to error conditions, and adjust the control algorithm while in flight. # Criterion For Success We aim to launch the balloon a week before the demo date. At the demo, we will present any data collected from the launch, as well as an identical version of the avionics board showing its functionality. A quantitative goal for the balloon is to survive 24 hours in the air, collect data for that whole period, and report it back via the satellite modem.  |
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| 61 | Automated Wildlife watcher |
Edwin Lu Kelvin Chen Xu Gao |
Abhisheka Mathur Sekar | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Title Automated Wildlife watcher Team Members: - Kelvin Chen (kelvin3) - Edwin Lu (jiajun3) - Xu Gao (xugao2) # Problem Despite interests and concern over climate change and human development, there is actually very little data available about both the diversity and distribution of wildlife insects or avian pollinators. This is especially concerning when considering the myriad number of species that are poorly understood. How many are there? How do they live? What do they eat? What can be done to help further their numbers or have the least negative impact. It typically takes a lot of time and effort to survey wildlife populations, a more popular approach is to citizen science. By setting up feeding stations or flowering plants in private residences and documenting visiting species, we can gather a more complete picture of the ecological distribution and possible human impact on the local species. But this too is a limited approach as it depends on observers spending time outside and physically observing and document what they saw, a costly and arguably, ineffective method of data collection. # Solution Our proposed solution is an automated camera system that keeps watch of a specific location, such as a backyard or a patch of flowers, for a prolonged period of time and captures photos or videos of wildlife that enters its view. Because of the proposed size of the area and the smaller relative size of the bird/insect, the camera must be placed on a self-adjustable gimbal that will angle the camera to the bird/insect and so the camera can zoom onto it for a more clear image. This will create a feedback loop of detecting motion, adjusting to the movement, and capturing the movement. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Camera module Camera module with a motion sensing algorithm reacts to dynamic objects (birds, insects, etc.). It has software implemented that is trained to recognize the objects in different directions. When a moving object is detected, the camera module will align and focus on a small area around the moving object and try to follow it using object tracking algorithms like YOLO, Faster R-CNN. ## Subsystem 2: Gimbal stand A gimbal is connected to the camera to stabilize and support it. Once the camera identifies the target object, the motor will turn the camera so that the target will stay within the camera range. ## Subsystem 3: Microcontrolller on a PCB The microcontroller on the customized PCB will be able to receive the data from the camera module and send a signal to the mechanical system. ## Subsystem 4: Power system A power system will be connected to the other subsystems. A voltage converter may be needed to supply the electric energy for the camera module and the gimbal. # Criterion For Success - Camera can detect object entering its field of vision - Gimbal can adjust and follow the object that is moving - The software will zooming the object and capture a photo or video |
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| 62 | Voice Coded Lock |
Aman Thombre Logan Greuel |
Zicheng Ma | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Voice Coded Lock Team members: - Aman Thombre (thombre3) - Logan Greuel (lgreuel2) ## Problem Currently, accessing secure areas usually requires some type of access card or keys, which can easily be misplaced, left at home, or stolen, leading to being locked out of your area of work or a security risk. These can also be hard to operate with your hands full - for example, trying to get an iCard out while accessing a lab in the ECEB while holding a laptop and FPGA can be quite difficult. Additionally, other keyless options requiring physical contact, such as a keypad, may pose a health concern for some users, especially during cold/flu seasons or a pandemic. ## Solution Our proposed solution is to implement an audio-based locking system for a door. We plan to create an attachment on or near a door which will listen for a user’s voice, and upon hearing a user saying some keyphrase, the device will automatically unlock the door. This system will use keyphrase recognition to identify an audio password, allowing for completely hands free operation of a keyless lock. ## Solution Components ### Subsystem 1: User Interface The user will interact with our locking system through a microphone and LEDs. Keyphrases will be listened for using a microphone, which will send the audio signal it records in real time to our microcontroller. An RGB LED will be used to signal to the user the state of the locking system - we plan to use different colors to indicate locked, unlocked, and listening. ### Subsystem 2: Keyphrase Recognition Audio signals will be fed from the microcontroller to a Raspberry Pi, which will perform keyphrase recognition. We plan to code this software in Python, and use some machine learning model (determined by which models give us best results in testing) to determine whether a given keyphrase is correct or incorrect. Signals will be fed from the Raspberry Pi to the microcontroller, signaling whether the keyphrase heard was correct or incorrect. ### Subsystem 3: Door Lock Operation We plan to use a deadbolt style lock which retracts when audio is verified. This can be achieved by using a motor and a screwing mechanism to engage/disengage the lock, or a more specialized moving component that can move side to side like a deadbolt lock. We also plan for this lock to retract in the event of loss of power as well, so that a loss of power does not lock users out permanently. ### Subsystem 4: Microcontroller on a PCB The microcontroller will be used to send signals to/from our user interface, perform some processing of the audio signal, and send signals to our door locking subsystem. The microcontroller will receive audio signals from the microphone, and when an audio signal passes over a certain threshold level, the microcontroller will send this audio signal to the Raspberry Pi for keyphrase recognition. When the audio signal is verified, the microcontroller will send a signal to the locking system to disengage the lock, and after a period of time, send a signal to re-engage the lock. The microcontroller will also send signals to our RGB LED, displaying whether the door is locked, unlocked, or whether a phrase is being processed. ### Subsystem 5: Power System Current electronic lock systems tend to use 4 AA batteries, so we plan to use up to 4 AA batteries to provide power to our microphone, LEDs, microcontroller, Raspberry Pi, and locking/unlocking operation. ## Criteria for Success - Keyphrase recognition should be able to consistently correctly classify audio password as correct/incorrect - Keyphrase recognition should be performed in reasonable time (<10 sec) - System should be able to operate a door lock automatically |
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| 63 | Molar Affixed Bone Conduction Speaker for Discreet Communication |
Arya Nallanthighall Raahim Azeem Yash Khatavkar |
Vishal Dayalan | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Molar Affixed Bone Conduction Speaker for Discreet Communication Team Members: - Yashak2 - bharath4 - raahima2 # Problem Discrete forms of communication have historically been incredibly useful in reconnaissance and military applications. Outside of small earpieces that are externally visible, there are not many solutions for communication that are undetectable from the perspective of an external viewer. Currently, bone conduction speakers are used in some hearing aids to bypass the ear in those that are hard of hearing. However, the audio signal output to the listener might not provide realistic audio, failing to supply spatial cues to the listener. # Solution Therefore, to address this problem, we propose a wearable bone conduction speaker affixed to the molar of the user which transmits audio via vibrations to the jawbone. To address this problem, we propose augmenting ear wearable hearing aids with in mouth wearable bone conduction speakers, providing another source of audio for the listener to spatialize the input audio. Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. # Solution Components NFMI RECIEVER-NxH2280/81/6 or SPIRIT1QTR ATTINY85-20SU Microcontroller 3V3 Battery U4 LM4864MM ## Communication This subsystem is responsible for receiving the audio signal. We will either have a Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) receiver or a Bluetooth receiver fixed in the mouth. This component will be connected to the AT microcontroller, where we will be able to configure the receiver during usage, for example, changing the receiving frequency, or changing the bluetooth pair. The microcontroller will then output this signal to the amplifier subsystem. NFMI RECIEVER-NxH2280/81/6 or SPIRIT1QTR ATTINY85-20SU Microcontroller 3V3 Battery ## Amplifier This subsystem is responsible for the amplification of audio signals which are to be sent to the transducer. U4 LM4864MM ## Transducer Finally. the transducer will receive the audio signal from the amplifier unit and converting them into small expansions and contractions of the magnetic coil in the Bone Conduction transducer. These vibrations will then be intelligible to the user as audio. RC-BC29 or Toothtune transducer(model number unknown but is found inside vintage toothtune brushes of the 2000’s) # Criterion For Success Since the premise of the project is a development of an incredibly discrete communication system our goals would be the following, Transducer must be able to vibrate resonant material, i.e., aluminum, before testing in mouth Be able to communicate to the user without indicating that such communication is taking place to external reference frames. The entire device should be comfortable for the user to wear and not an impairment for normal speech. If these two criteria are fulfilled the unit should be comfortable and low maintenance to wear and operate. #Safety As this is an in mouth wearable, safety is of utmost importance in the development process. There will be meticulous care taken in the development in this product so that we do not run the risk of hurting ourselves. First, the components of the circuit will all be chosen for low current, low power operation, thus limiting the power consumption of the wearable. Second, before fitting into the mouth, we will do extensive testing of the system on resonant material outside the mouth, creating a safe testbench for our project. Finally, great care will be taken in insulating each our our components by a) building a insulating chassis, and b) using insulating glue like Sugru to ensure that the user will not be shorted by any loose circuitry. |
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| 64 | Letter Shredder: Automatic Mail Sorting System |
Angelo Santos Lisa Pachikara Sahas Munamala |
Yixuan Wang | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Team Members: - Angelo Santos (angelos4) - Sahas Munamala (sahasrm2) - Lisa Pachikara (lisamp2) # Problem It is common for many residents to encounter mail that does not belong to them from prior tenants. The documents may contain personal information about that tenant that could risk security threats and negative legal implications. There are also many occasions where tenants currently living in apartments get unwanted mail from senders they would like to blacklist, or from advertisers. # Solution We propose a mail sorter and shredder that would organize mail based on the names of the tenants and the senders that are allowed/blacklisted from the mail system. Names on the allowlist are sorted into the respective bins. Blacklisted names are sent to the shredder. This would be done by scanning the mail, extracting the necessary information from the labels of the mail, and comparing all features to determine bin placement. # Solution Components - Raspberry Pi - Camera x2 - Microcontroller - Laser Block sensor - Motors x3 - Shredder # Subsystems ## Subsystem 1: Mail Recognition/Detector This component will consist of an optical switch connected to the main control unit that will determine if mail is placed properly in the scanner. It will also contain 2 cameras and light sources to capture both sides of the mail. ## Subsystem 2: Main control unit Controls the image capturing of the camera based on the optical switch, and runs an OCR to determine the sender and receiver from the printed or handwritten text. It will then compares the data to names/aliases within a local database to determine the destination of the mail being processed. Further, it will send control signals to different electric motors in the organization system. ## Subsystem 3: Webserver We will run a webserver hosted on a raspberry pi. This web server will be responsible for updating the machine's internal filters. ## Subsystem 4: Organization System This is the physical system that controls the directional movement of the documents such that it reaches the intended destination. # Criterion For Success - Mail sorter can sort mail into individual slots - Mail sorter can read mail and extract necessary information like addresses/names from images of mail. - Mail sorter settings can be set remotely - Mail sorter can shred |
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| 65 | Chip Storage (Dispenser) |
Qi Chen Tianyang Sha Xulun Huang |
Raman Singh | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Chip Storage Team Members: - Qi Chen (qic7) - Tianyang Sha (tsha3) - Xulun Huang (xulunh2) # Problem As we all know, ECE classes like ECE210 and ECE385 will dissipate kits with chips and electronic parts. Electronic parts can be easily distinguished because of their size and shape; chips on the other hand look generally the same: a small black box with several pins. For a class with more than 200 students, placing the right number of intended chips becomes lab-intensive and time-consuming. # Solution We propose to make a system that can dispense a certain number of intended chips. The user can input the desired list of chips on the terminal and then hit the button to dispense those. To extend the functionality, an identification system can be integrated to accommodate a pile of chips are all different types. For the input, the identification system will need a sequence of chips. Each chip will then be identified and placed into a specific slot. For identification purposes, either text recognition or barcode/QR code can be implemented. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Chip delivery system.[1] This subsystem will accept a sequence (inline) of different chips and output them one by one for the scanner to use. ## Subsystem 2: Chip identification subsystem.[1] This subsystem will have a barcode scanner to identify the chip and tell the controller chip ID. For identification, the scanning area will have at most one chip at a time, and the chip must be placed at a proper angle to the scanner. These requirements will be fulfilled by the Chip delivery system. Explain what the subsystem does. Explicitly list what sensors/components you will use in this subsystem. Include part numbers. ## Subsystem 3: Storage subsystem [1] This subsystem will place chips into their corresponding slot(long bar shape). Each slot will hold one specific type of chip. For example, slot#1 will hold chip HCF4072B, and slot#2 will hold chip SN74ALS21. All chips without a barcode will be grouped in one slot. ## Subsystem 4: Dispensing subsystem This subsystem will dispense the intended chip from the storage. At the bottom of each storage chip bar, an electric motor could drive a stick to push the very bottom chip into a funnel-shaped collecting place. ## Subsystem 5: Power subsystem This subsystem is responsible for the power supply of the whole system. We will use a battery to deliver power. ## Subsystem 6: User terminal This subsystem will accept the user's chip request (chip ID and number) through the USB port. ## Subsystem 7: Control system Input part[1]: A microcontroller accepts signals from the camera and sends signals to chip delivery, identification, and storage systems. Output part: A microcontroller accepts a file from users via a USB connection and sends signals to the dispensing system. _[1]: These systems may not be required. Since chips are already categorized into different piles when bought by staff. Loading the chip manually may be accepted._ # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be testable and not subjective. - A sequence of, user-input, mixture chips get classified individually and stored in certain slots. (depending on the actual usage environment, this might not be critical) - After the user chooses desired chips, the dispenser system outputs specified chips with the correct numbers. - The dispenser system can output a single chip. - Chips in the storage system form a regular bar shape by stacking them one by one. |
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| 66 | Blitz Board! |
James Tang Nick Bingenheimer Owen Shin |
Hanyin Shao | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # The Blitz Board! Team Members: - Owen Shin (owenjs2) - Nick Bingenheimer (nbinge2) - James Tang (cttang2) # Problem When one plays chess against a remote player or bot on chess.com, there is no physical component- the board is replaced with a display and mouse. A good solution is a two-axis motor system to move pieces underneath the board on behalf of a remote or virtual opponent, but this method is slow for "takes" when the same moving electromagnet must move two pieces. This is unfavorable, especially in fast games of chess like "blitz." A faster method of automatically moving chess pieces is warranted. # Solution Our solution looks beyond traditional methods for creating a singular, physical, and robotical opponent on the board. Rather, we look to speed up the action by using multiple small, remote controlled and independent robots that can each pick up pieces on their own. These robots will remain within the table, allowing them to charge, play, and move about entirely uncared for by the user. This will speed up the process of moving and discarding of pieces, and allow for faster move time on the behalf of the computer opponent, thus allowing for game modes like blitz chess. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 (In Board robots and their control module) The in-board robots will be similar to small rc bumper cars. They will receive power through metal “antennas” that make contact with a copper “ceiling”. It is important to use copper as it won't affect use of electromagnets to grab pieces. They will navigate using small DC motors and have electromagnets mounted on top. Using radio communications, we will be able to control the rc cars and automate their communication using a small control module. The control module, most likely a Raspberry PI, will utilize an API to connect to chess.com or other online chess bot, allowing us to minimize software work and amount of internal computation needed to play. We will then translate the moves received from chess.com into directions for the robots. The controller will call upon robots as needed and use proximity for choosing which robot will make the move/take. It will also be able to call on multiple at once in order to speed up taking pieces specifically. ## Subsystem 2 (LEDs and sensors for real-time data on pieces??) LEDs embedded in the board will display the most recent move by highlighting the moved piece’s current and previous positions. They will be driven by an off the shelf multiplexer. The board will be able to sense and report the positions of pieces using small hall effect sensors just underneath the board floor that detect the presence of the magnetic field generated by the magnets within the pieces. A possible model is the A3144/OH3144/AH3144E (found on amazon at 20units/~$8). These will not affect the use of the electromagnet for moving pieces as they won’t be sensing during the robots work. ## Subsystem 3, Chess Clock A chess clock on the side of the board will reflect the time limits for both players according to chess.com. The clock’s display will be seven-segment LCDs and will have the see-saw switch often seen on chess clocks. The user pressing the switch will finalize a move, allowing it to be sent to chess.com. A solenoid under the switch will press the switch when the computer’s move is made or to reverse the switch in case the user makes an illegal move. Note, when an illegal move is made, the LEDs will all light up RED and the board will automatically undo the move. The API and microcontroller will check if moves are legal. # Criterion For Success The in board robots should be able to perform movement of and discard of taken pieces faster than other boards on the market (Square off averages 1s/square of distance on the board for normal moves and up to 10s per take of pieces) Robots can reliably perform tasks without too much user interference (such as needing help charging like my roomba), and can withstand unforeseen circumstances (the table being bumped or getting stuck, losing power, etc. A working chess-clock that allows for timing of moves along with chess rules. Robot will effectively hit its clock at the end of its turn, as well as begin moving at the hit of the player’s clock. |
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| 67 | Project Sense |
Aakash Rangan Abhay Narayanan Jerome Dinakar |
Vishal Dayalan | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| A "sensing" system to enhance road safety for cyclists by notifying vehicle drivers when cyclists are in range and vice versa. | ||||||
| 68 | Automated Sensor-Based Filtration System |
Karthik Talluri Omar Koueider Prithvi Saravanan |
Selva Subramaniam | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Automated Sensor-Based Filtration System Team Members: - Prithvi Saravanan (prithvi3) - Omar Koueider (oyk2) - Karthik Talluri (talluri4) # Problem As our environment continues to change with global warming and human development, the safety associated with breathing normally is being threatened. In metropolitan areas around the world, there is an increase in smog and toxic output, leading to increased respiratory problems. Currently, no building filtration systems change or adapt according to the outdoor air quality index (AQI), a measurement that we can use to determine the safety of breathing air in the surrounding environment. # Solution Our proposed solution is a filtration system that adapts to changes in outdoor air quality, temperature, and air pressure. We plan to implement this with an electrochemical sensor system that constantly monitors these factors in order to keep the building AQI at a constant level. In order to keep the indoor air quality constant, we must compare data from the outdoor AQI monitor system with the indoor one. Two separate electron chemical sensor systems will monitor outdoor and indoor particles. We also need a microcontroller to take the analog/digital data from these sensors in order to determine what particles to filter out. The adaptation functionality of opening or closing the air ducts in the building whenever the indoor quality varies will be implemented with a software algorithm along with the microcontroller. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1 : Data acquisition We will gather lots of data both inside and outside in order to determine the air quality but also the reasons behind the quality so that in the case of a low AQI reading, we would be able to point towards what seems to be dampening the quality. The information from these sensors will then impact how we choose to filter out the air coming in. We will use the following sensors in our PCB: SGP40: – A sensor that processes a raw signal and determines AQI for you on a scale from 0 to 500. CCS811: – Air quality sensor but instead of AQI it provides TVOC and CO2 data. PM2.5 PMSA003I: Sensor that collects the concentration of particles smaller than 2.5 microns in width. BME680: Sensor to collect temperature, humidity, and air pressure data. Our goal is to have 2 of each sensor (one for the inside and one for outside). 5V is necessary to power up all the sensors. ## Subsystem 2: Microcontroller We will use an ESP32 to hook up all our sensors to and to process the data collected. The microcontroller will then be responsible for communicating with the air ducts (opening and closing of the ducts) and the filtration system (changing direction of air coming in for better filtration) to ensure constant AQI inside. 3.3V is required to power up the ESP32. ## Subsystem 3: Dynamic Filtration Subsystem In order to change the filtration rate, we use the inertial impaction mechanism. This type of filtration technique creates a rapid change of air to separate particles from the air stream using the inertia principle. Based on the changes in AQI detected in our sensor subsystem, we can automate this process and program an algorithm that dynamically adjusts the velocity of the air blasted in the opposite direction of the incoming stream to be filtered. This ensures the functionality of constant indoor air quality while factoring in the data from particulates outside. # Criterion For Success Each sensor can accurately collect data both inside and outside of a room. Sensors can monitor the air constantly and display small and large changes in the AQI. There should be an established way for the PCB to communicate with the physical filtration system. The filtration system should change the airflow according to the data received and transmitted by the sensors. |
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| 69 | Bluetooth Speaker with Motion-based Automated Volume Adjustment |
Chirag Kikkeri Dhruv Vishwanath Raj Pulugurtha |
Abhisheka Mathur Sekar | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Bluetooth Speaker with Motion-based Automated Volume Adjustment TEAM MEMBERS: - Chirag Kikkeri (kikkeri2) - Dhruv Vishwanath (dhruvv2) - Raj Pulugurtha (rajkp2) # PROBLEM When driving and listening to music, oftentimes we want to change the volume based on the speed of the vehicle. For example, when moving at higher speeds, drivers will raise the volume to better hear the music, and when stopped at a stop light, will lower the volume significantly. This issue is a clear nuisance, but can also present a major safety hazard that takes the user’s concentration away from driving and to adjusting the volume, especially for drivers who do not use the car sound system. Outside of driving specifically, this is a problem for those who bike or skate with a speaker as well. # Solution Overview Our solution is to create a speaker that will automatically increase and decrease volume based on the speed that the speaker is moving. The speaker will be a portable Bluetooth speaker that the user can take in and out of the car. Users will also have the ability to set the minimum and maximum volumes to better personalize their listening experience. It will also contain a series of LEDs that tell the user the current volume. The speaker system will have two modes: one for when it is moving, and one for when it is stationary. When it is in the stationary mode, the user can increase and decrease volume with buttons. When it is in moving mode, the user will not be able to change the volume, so that the user focuses on driving. # Solution Components: ## Subsystem #1: Power - Description: This part of our project will be key to making the remainder of our project operable. In order to power our speaker and change volume levels when in the “moving mode”, we will need a battery to power it. - Components: Lithium-ion battery, USB-based charging port ## Subsystem #2: Bluetooth Connection - Description: Both the bluetooth module and bluetooth amplifier are essential for wireless communication between the speaker and a media device. Having both of these components allows our speaker to be more easily portable. - Components: HC-05 Bluetooth Module, TDA7492P amplifier board ## Subsystem #3: Sensor System - Description: Arguably the most essential subsystem for our project, the point of the sensor is to track changes in speed within our speaker so that it can use that information to adjust the volume of our speaker automatically based on a formula that we create (this formula will create a consistent change in volume values that correspond with the changes in speed). We plan on using an accelerometer sensor for this, which means we must also account for the fact that the sensor will only give us information regarding the speaker's acceleration, meaning we need to convert that to speed so that our speaker can properly change the volume. This system will be connected to the PCB in addition to the bluetooth amplifier so that there is a line of communication between our subsystems which will allow the PCB to make changes to the volume itself based on the information provided by the system. - Components: Accelerometer sensor (https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-MPU-6050-Accelerometer-Gyroscope-Converter/dp/B00LP25V1A/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=accelerometer&qid=1675291981&sr=8-3&th=1) Microcontroller: STM32F401RE Microcontroller ## Subsystem #4: Speaker System - Description: The physical build of the speaker itself is very important to our project, as the aesthetic appearance of our product will be directly correlated to its assumed value and durability. To build the speaker itself, we will need the bluetooth technology (see above), in addition to the physical parts of the speaker that produce sound. Given the components below and wood, we would be able to ask the machine shop to put the parts together in a way that could complete the physical part of the speaker. With the case of the speaker completed, we can add the remaining subsystems to an empty part of the case and make the necessary connections for the speaker. - Components: Woofer (https://www.parts-express.com/GRS-5PF-8-5-1-4-Paper-Cone-Foam-Surround-Woofer-292-405?quantity=1), speaker driver (https://www.parts-express.com/GRS-1TD1-8-1-Dome-Tweeter-8-Ohm-292-462?quantity=1), passive radiator (https://www.parts-express.com/Samsung-U083L03SSK1-3-Poly-Cone-Passive-Radiator-21-23-34-289-2362?quantity=1), audio crossovers (https://www.parts-express.com/Crossover-2-Way-8-Ohm-5-000-Hz-150W-260-198?quantity=1) ## Subsystem #5: User Interface - Description: The last module is what the user will see on the outside surface of the speaker. The main things we want to have here are some buttons (on/off, switch between modes, min/max volume settings, bluetooth connection), as well as LEDs that are visible to the user so that they know what volume level they are currently using the speaker at. - Components: Omron B3F switch, SparkFun Qwiic LED Stick (SparkFun Qwiic LED Stick - APA102C - COM-18354 - SparkFun Electronics) # Criterion for Success - The system is able to play music using Bluetooth connection - The system is able to precisely adjust volume based on the readings of the accelerometer (same speed should result in same volume) - The user is able to set min and max volumes and those volumes are not crossed - The user is able to manually change volume when the system is in stationary mode (For demoing in the lab, we will change our formula for changing volume such that a small change in speed, results in a large difference in volume) |
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| 70 | DIY Plantify |
Hongshang Fan Joshmita Chintala Maya Kurup |
Raman Singh | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| DIY Plantify Team Members: - Maya Kurup (mayaek2) - Joshmita Chintala (jchint2) - Hongshang Fan (hf7) # **Problem** At the root of every plant, it needs 5 different components for it to grow, survive, and thrive: light, air, water, nutrients, and space to grow. In people’s day-to-day lives, there aren’t many systems put in place to help those individuals understand how much sunlight a plant needs, when the plant needs it, and how much of it they need. As well, there aren’t many systems in place to understand how much water a plant needs, when it needs to be watered, and if you are adding enough. So, a solution to resolve these issues can be very beneficial in people’s day-to-day lives when growing plants (simple leaf plants, trees, fruits, or even vegetables) on a smaller scale, but can also be extended to a professional/advanced level that farmers and larger industries can use. # **Solution** A solution for this issue is to create a system in which a light and/or heating sensor is connected to a pot, and this can detect how much sunlight that plant is retaining. Once that sensor sees that the sunlight exposure is too low/high based on what the plant needs, it will alert the system. And in this system, we also want to implement a system with motors/moving robots beneath this pot, that can move this pot in a different location around a certain room (with a chassis - similar to a Rumba-vacuum moving system). With the combination of this heating/light sensor and a moving chassis, we can feasibly make a product that can be applied and used in people’s day-to-day life. As well, we can hopefully get a full implementation done by the end of this semester, as we can use our past experiences with motors and sensors, and the use of ECE technical elective class applications. Based on the timeline of our project, we can foresee that maybe we will have time to make further implementations of this product. An example of an additional component would be a self-watering pot. This pot would use multiple sensors (depending on the route of how we would want to do it - weight measuring sensor, moisture control sensor, etc) to detect how much moisture is in the pot, or by using timing sensors to alert when the plant needs to be watered (depending on each plant’s needs). This would create a self-automated irrigation system for small plants and can further be extended to larger systems, which would help everyone at a local level and professional/worldwide level. # **Solution Components** ## Subsystem 1 Light/Heat Sensor The light (and/or heat) sensors are present on the pot and it will detect the amount of sunlight that it receives. We will have a certain level of light that it must maintain, and if it goes below that level, the light sensor will alert the system and then the robot wheels will be activated to move the pot. This is the next subsystem. ## Subsystem 2 Plant-carrying robot/chassis The robot motor will be controlled by the microprocessor and the processor will give commands according to the data from light and heat sensors. The commands will include moving the plant to another location with comparatively more light and heat sensors. _Parts Needed_: Photoresistor and Raspberry Pi - Photoresistors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7V536K/ - Raspberry Pi: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TC2BK1X/?th=1 - Capacitors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSQOX0Q/ - Chassis: https://www.adafruit.com/product/3244?gclid=Cj0KCQiA2-2eBhClARIsAGLQ2Rli0ig6Wgl3Ri489C1lW6eO7W3zSEXhPjSYvQRZ5P2SJ4LlMirFtNQaAlhJEALw_wcB # **Criterion For Success** ## Main Goals: 1. Ensuring that light vs. dark is being detected by the light sensor - To test that, we need a circuit setup with a photoresistor, capacitor, and the Raspberry Pi. - When the light is present, the resistance is lower. When light is not present, the resistance is higher. - When resistance is lower, the capacitor will charge faster. And when resistance is higher, it takes longer for the capacitor to charge. - We need the Raspberry Pi to read the voltage values and to see how long it takes to charge the capacitor. - Based on these values, we can detect whether light is present or not present 2. Next, we need to test that the outputs of light being detected vs. not detected are being recognized by the microprocessor. 3. Once that is done, and we have a way of informing the microprocessor of light vs. dark, it should send instructions to move the chassis if necessary 4. It needs to keep moving until it finds a place with more light 5. And then once again, we would have to make sure that light is being detected by the light sensor. 6. To test our entire project, we could have for example 4 locations in a room, and then change/dim the lighting at each of the spots consecutively and see the robot move from location to location. ## Criterion to consider throughout the project: 1. Light sensor: - Where the plant should be located - How much sunlight the plant needs - When the sensor needs to be used (turned on/off) based on the time of day, or if it can be automated - Where the sensor should be located for best results 2. Chassis/Moving motor system: - Determine when the motor needs to be used - Determine how fast it should move the pot - Test and make sure it has a motion sensor so that it’s not running into walls (set a range of x, y, z directions to make a maximum and minimum distance of how far it should/can move in a certain room/location) 3. Water/Moisture Sensor/System: - Test how much moisture is in the pot: Use a weighing sensor (implemented ourselves), or a moisture sensor (easily find/buy online) |
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| 71 | Extend IMU Degrees of Freedom for Pose Estimation Using AI on Chip |
Chirag Rastogi Lukas Zscherpel |
Yixuan Wang | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| EXTEND IMU DEGREES OF FREEDOM FOR POSE ESTIMATION USING AI ON CHIP Team Members: - Chirag Rastogi (chiragr2) - Lukas Zscherpel (lukasez2) # Problem An Inertial measurement unit (IMU) is a combination of sensors that collects data based on movement. IMU’s normally include an accelerometer and a gyroscope which track the specific acceleration and the angular acceleration of the object. The sensors are: Accelerometers: Used to measure linear acceleration in three dimensions. This information can be used to estimate the velocity and position of the object over time. Gyroscopes: Used to measure angular velocity in three dimensions. This information can be used to estimate the orientation of the object over time. Magnetometers: Used to measure the direction of the Earth's magnetic field. This information can be used to determine the orientation of the object with respect to the Earth's magnetic field, which can be used to correct errors in the orientation estimate obtained from the gyroscopes. IMU’s are used in a wide range of applications but they are really important in the medical field and in consumer electronics. Some example applications include movement tracking on patients to detect disorders or even tracking movement in your cell phone to get its orientation. 9DOF IMU sensors can be found for as low as $10-$20 for basic models, but these sensors have lower accuracy. For projects that require greater accuracy, the cost can go upto 300$ (https://x-io.co.uk/ngimu/) and this limits projects that require multiple such devices. # Solution An AI on chip solution may have the potential to reduce the cost of 9DOF IMU sensors by enabling the integration of multiple sensors and processing functions onto a single chip, which can simplify the design, reduce the bill of materials, and lower the manufacturing costs. By leveraging AI algorithms among others, an AI on chip can enable 9DOF IMU sensors to perform advanced sensing and processing tasks on-device, reducing the data transmission requirements and minimizing the need for external computing resources. Our solution is to take a cheap 6 DOF IMU and combine it with a RNN that we train to calculate the other 3 DOF that a magnetometer normally provides. We will then take this AI model and put it onto a chip. The AI on chip will work together with the 6DOF IMU to emulate a 9 DOF IMU in a handheld format. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Inertial Measurement Unit This subsystem will be an 6 DOF IMU that we acquire from a third party distributor. We will have to research what the IMU will output and how to connect to it as well as how to calibrate the IMU. We are considering using an Adafruit ISM330DHCX as the IMU ($20) and the MPU-6050 (3$). https://www.adafruit.com/product/4502 https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-MPU-6050-Accelerometer-Gyroscope-Converter/dp/B01DK83ZYQ?th=1 ## Subsystem 2: Control System We will have a control system (microcontroller) that is designed by a student that will process the data outputted by the IMU and provide it to the AI on chip. It will then take the output of the AI model along with the other data and output it to the usb port. We are considering using an ESP32 microcontroller for this subsystem. ## Subsystem 3: AI on Chip AI on chip either through Nvidia Jetson or fpga that will take the output of the IMU and predict what the orientation of the device will be. The model will be created and trained on a students laptop on data acquired. The model will then be fitted and tuned to fit onto the processor that we choose https://ieee-dataport.org/open-access/estimating-relative-angle-between-two-6-axis-inertial-measurement-units-imus. ## Subsystem 4: PCB and Power Supply For our project we will mount everything to a PCB that we design. The pcb will host all of the other subsystems as well as a USB interface that will provide power as well as output the data to an external source such as a laptop to be recorded. # Criterion For Success The output of the 6 DOF imu is displayed and recorded on a separate computer. The calculated 3 DOF are displayed and recorded on a separate computer. The PCB including the IMU is able to be turned off and disconnected from a computer. |
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| 73 | Isolated Current Sensor (Pitched Project) |
Akshat Dhavala Rohan Chaturvedula Sean Geary |
Matthew Qi | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Isolated Current Sensor Project Sponsor: Jason Paximadas (jop2) Team Members: - Rohan Chaturvedula (rohanvc2) - Akshat Dhavala (dhavala2) - Sean Geary (smgeary2) # Problem: In power electronics research, we often need to equip microcontrollers with the ability to accurately sense a high current signal. The result is inefficient use of time and effort to create a new circuit that will manually test the current. # Solution: We would like to create an isolated current sensor that has the ability to read the current in circuits. This product should be universally usable and have reading accuracy of +/- 1%. This device must monitor its output in real time and convey that information to the user. Additionally, it must be able to handle three simultaneous current inputs without any drop in quality. # Solution Components The system will consist of a microcontroller, an analog to digital converter, a Hall-effect current detecting IC, a power source, and an SPI interface to communicate the results. ## Subsystem 1: Hall Effect Current Detecting IC We will utilize the Texas Instruments TMCS1100, a galvanically isolated Hall-effect current sensing IC to accurately measure the current. This chip also comes equipped with a zero current output voltage reference. We will be setting baseline standards for each of the three chips by feeding in known currents, reading the outputs of the chip, and finding the correlation between the input current and the output voltage. https://www.ti.com/product/TMCS1100/part-details/TMCS1100A1QDR?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ocb-tistore-promo-asc_opn_en-cpc-storeic-google-wwe&utm_content=Device&ds_k=TMCS1100A1QDR&DCM=yes&gclid=Cj0KCQiA2-2eBhClARIsAGLQ2RmHtTJoKDjLic_rZNSalLk1ww2lNuN3ouapPPh9FsiSocdq_zuid2MaAscFEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds ## Subsystem 2: ADC The ADC will take the resulting analog voltage signal from the Hall-effect sensor, convert it into a digital signal, and pass that through an anti-aliasing filter and a low pass filter before giving out the final digital output . We will be using a chip that uses the SPI interface, provides a sampling frequency that is at least above 100 kHz, and has 3 or more inputs so that simultaneous conversion can take place. We are currently considering various chips that fulfill this criteria, including the ADS9817 ( which provides 8 separate channels and a max sampling frequency of 8 MHz) ,ADC128S102-SEP ( which also provides 8 separate channels and a max sampling frequency of 1 MHz, and ADS7067 ( which provides 8 separate channels and a max sampling frequency of 800 kHz). https://www.ti.com/product/ADS9817 https://www.ti.com/product/ADS7067 https://www.ti.com/product/ADC128S102-SEP ## Subsystem 3: Microcontroller Our system will have an ATtiny85-20SU microcontroller that will take data from the current detector, figure out the current reading, then send the reading out via SPI. ## Subsystem 4: Interface In order to see the readings we collect, we will utilize SPI to connect to a digital output that will show us this information. ## Subsystem 5: Power For the device to be universal, we will need to use our own power source to avoid interference with the other device that is being tested. Our device will use a battery to power the components. # Criterion for Success - +/- 1% Reading Accuracy - 50 KHz Bandwidth - Digital Output - Operate within +/- 10A - Achieve simultaneous current measurement |
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| 74 | Isolated Voltage Sensor |
Jevin Liu Laureano Salcines Cubria |
Hanyin Shao | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| Isolated Voltage Sensor Team Members: - Laureano Salcines (Ls38) - Jevin Liu (jevinl2) - Student 3 (netid) # Problem In power electronics, there is a need to sense a voltage through galvanic isolation. In these applications, the output measurements must be accurate and be represented digitally. # Solution Our solution is a small board that can be mounted onto another larger PCB, this small board will carry an analog front end, analog to digital converter, isolated digital interface, a microcontroller and a power supply. measure a voltage across an isolated barrier, provide the measurement as a floating point number. # Solution Components Analog front end Analog to digital converter with voltage reference. isolated digital interface microcontroller ## Analog front end. Sense the input voltage and provides a signal to the analog-to-digital converter. TL-072 amplifier. ## Voltage reference and digital converter. Provide a voltage reference and sample the input voltage. The voltage reference can be a series voltage reference REF 35. ## Microcontroller and isolated digital interface. An ATMEGA328P microcontroller which does the sampling at 10 kilo sample per second. Power. A PDS1-S5-S15 Isolated power converter that can transfer power across from the microcontroller side to the ADC # Criterion For Success 10 kilo-samples per second microcontroller, should measure the voltage digitally within 0.5 percent precision, and at least 10 megaohms of impedance. |
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| 75 | Camera Gimbal System |
Girish Chinnadurai Manivel Harrison Liao |
Ugur Akcal | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf other1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # Camera Gimbal System Team Members: Girish Manivel (ggc2), Harrison Liao (hzliao2) # Problem A major problem in video processing is footage that is shaky. If you take the forward direction as +y, right direction as +x, and up direction as +z; Shaky video footage is a result of the camera rotating around the +y and +x axes at minute steps. For example, if you take out your hand with your palm facing forward and pretend that it is a camera. Wave your hand as if you are waving hello. Moving your hand left and right is the camera rotating around the y axis also known as roll. If you move your hand up and down, bending at the wrist, it is the camera rotating about the x axis also known as pitch. # Solution Camera stabilization, countering the shift in pitch and roll, is the key to solving this issue. To do this, we want to make a camera gimbal. This will allow for stability in camera footage given an initial starting orientation of the camera. Once a button is pressed, the camera gimbal will take in an initial orientation from a gyroscope sensor. This reading will go to an encoder to the microcontroller. Two servo motors, controlled by the microcontroller, will be used to maintain the initial orientation by opposing the shift in pitch and roll, keeping the camera stable. # Solution Components ## Power Subsystem The purpose of this subsystem is to supply power to all other subsystems and to turn the device on and off. Components: 2x AA battery EN91, Dual AA battery holder 12BH322B-GR, +5 Volt Regulator LM7805ACT-ND ## Control Subsystem The purpose of this system is to actuate our motors in order to mimic a gyroscopic gimbal. We will use a microcontroller which interprets data from a gyroscopic sensor to set control inputs to motors. Components: Arduino Nano Microcontroller B003YVL34O, 2x Servo Motor HS-311, Push Button MPB-43 ## Sensor Subsystem To understand the purpose of this subsystem, we need to first understand the mechanics of the device. We will have a user controlled handle where at the control end of the handle will house our Pitch movement, and directly above that another motor will control the Roll movement. The gyroscope will be attached at the base of these motors so that the far end of the handle will be the modular platform. Components: Gyroscope Sparkfun SEN-11977 # Criterion For Success ## Camera is stabilized from rotating around the +x axis (PITCH) This can be tested by isolating one of the servo motors and seeing how they oscillate/turn as the gyroscope is moving around. ## Camera is stabilized from rotating around the +y axis (ROLL) This can be tested by isolating one of the servo motors and seeing how they oscillate/turn as the gyroscope is moving around. ## User Interface (buttons) work (one button) First button press: ON, and read gyroscope sensor. Second button press: save gyroscope sensor reading as ‘accepted’ and Gimbal Mode on. Third button press: Power off. |
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| 76 | Tool that translates printed text to braille |
Abraham Han Blas Alejandro Calatayud Cerezo Samuel Foley |
Raman Singh | Viktor Gruev | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| # **Tool that translates printed text to braille** Team Members: - Blas Alejandro Calatayud Cerezo (bac10) - Abraham Seungyeop Han (shan79) - Samuel Foley (safoley2) # **Problem** According to the World Health Organization, currently there are around 39 million people who are legally blind around the world. Right now there are not many resources available for people who can only read braille to read physical written text from a book or magazine, and those that are available are very expensive. # **Solution** Our solution is to create a tool that can be placed over printed text and translate it to braille so that blind people can read it. This tool will be divided into two parts that will be connected between each other through several wires that will transmit power and data. The first part will be a handheld device with a camera to recognize the letters in a word. The user would hold this handheld device with one hand and place it on top of written words. The second part will be a box that will contain the pcb with the microprocessor and an external battery module. It will receive the images taken by the camera, process them to recognize every letter on the word and finally output on top in braille the characters of that word one by one using pins that can be pushed up and down to create braille characters. The person using this device will place one of their fingers on top of the moving pins used to create the braille characters to read the printed text. After showing all the braille characters in a word, the user can simply move to the next word for it to be shown in braille. # Solution Components # Subsystem 1 - Handheld Housing The handheld housing will have the camera sensor attached to it, which would be transmitting image data to the microcontroller. The housing will have to be ergonomic to hold and made of some lightweight material, like plastic. We may additionally add some way for the user to attach the housing (e.g. velcro straps) for convenience. # Subsystem 2 - PCB containing the MicroController A custom PCB will be designed in order to connect all other subsystems. The PCB would connect the pin motors for the braille “display”, the handheld housing containing the camera sensor, and the external battery module in order to power all the other components. The PCB would also control the recharging of the battery module to ensure optimal battery health. The microcontroller will take images from the camera sensor to process the text characters in the image. The image processing, or more specifically the OCR (Optical Character Recognition), will be done through open source computer vision and machine learning libraries such as OpenCV or Tesseract. The microcontroller will also control the motors that will drive our pins to form braille characters. Also, a Raspberry Pi or a similar microcontroller will interface with the microcontroller used in our custom PCB as a more powerful chip may be required for better OCR performance. However, Arduino could also be a viable option. # Subsystem 3 - External battery module An external battery module will power the whole system and: 1. Be lightweight for ease of transporting 2. Powerful enough to sufficiently power the whole system 3. Have theoretical “all-day” battery-life The battery module will be made up from LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries for their high energy-density. Potentially multiple batteries hooked up together for a battery array depending on the energy needs. Such a module would need to have a casing of some sort (simple plastic casing would suffice) in order to protect the batteries from the outside environment. Some downsides to such a battery module would be that LiPo batteries require extra care in their recharge cycles as they must be evenly charged, and also not overcharged. Further, LiPo batteries can become hazardous if punctured, and such a safety hazard would have to be addressed through the design of the casing. # Subsystem 4 - Motors for Pins Linear actuators controlled by the microcontroller will be used to move up and down 6 small bars through holes made on top of the box to form braille characters. The bars required to form each character in braille will move up and down in a synchronous way so that the user can read them with their finger. # Criterion for Success - The moving handheld camera can take pictures of every letter in a word and send them to the microcontroller. - The microcontroller can recognize every letter in a word using the images sent by the camera. - The microcontroller can translate the recognized letters into a series of braille characters for the pins to make. - Linear actuators can push pins in a synchronous way to create braille characters that are easy to read. |
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| 77 | Knock-Turn Lock |
Adam Frerichs Jack Kelly Vishal Rajesh |
Vishal Dayalan | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf design_document3.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| # Knock-Turn Lock Team Members: - Jack Kelly (jacktk2) - Vishal Rajesh (vrajesh2) - Adam Frerichs (adamdf2) Link to high-level block diagram: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kzdScCKG7YJrnN6E_D_-xf1Sez1VTvAVJpIW24HritI/edit?usp=sharing # Problem Losing keys is extremely common, and being locked out of your own house can be extremely frustrating. Hidden spare keys are a security concern, and digital keypads can be unsightly as well as insecure, introducing a secondary point of failure to possible intruders. # Solution Describe your design at a high-level, how it solves the problem, and introduce the subsystems of your project. We propose a unique door lock, that uses a unique combination of programmable knocks and door knob turns in order to provide a secondary way of unlocking a door. From an outside observer, it would simply appear as somebody let the entrant inside, after they knocked and tried the handle, and would not have any obvious code for potential intruders to figure out. It would consist of a sensor to detect knocks, two buttons to read left and right knob turns, a microprocessor to check for the specific code, and a usb-port hidden in the side of the door in order to program a new combination. # Solution Components ## Piezo sensor These sensors are able to detect vibration due to knocking, and are used in things like electric drum kits to detect the percussion. When activated through a force, piezo sensors are modeled as a capacitor. This would be connected to the microcontroller using a transistor in order to produce a binary output, and connected to a ground through a small value resistor, in order to allow the voltage to discharge quickly and have knocks be processed in quick succession. ## Button The buttons would have to have low spring resistance, in order to make the knob feel like a regular locked door handle. These would be connected to a high voltage source with a pull-up resistor in order to produce a binary output, with one button on both the left and right sides of the door knob mechanism to detect both directions. ## Microcontroller https://www.snapeda.com/parts/STM32F103C8T6/STMicroelectronics/view-part/ This is the microcontroller the RFID lock group used. It may be more complex than we need. This would be mounted on our PCB, which would need to fit in an enclosure less than 2” thick in order to fit in the door. However, it could be as wide as needed as long as it fits inside of the door. ## Power The device would be powered directly through the house’s power, and would require a 3.6V AC/DC converter in order to match the input power of the microcontroller. The electronic lock would require 9V AC/DC converter. These would be separate from the PCB enclosure, and as such would have to be less than 2” in thickness in order to fit within the door. ## Electronic Lock https://www.adafruit.com/product/1512?gclid=Cj0KCQiA2-2eBhClARIsAGLQ2RlgWKqt1XGgX23roDPViY1hjU2EkBonYtzCMKPVEfRFaTNxiRkg-D8aAtL6EALw_wcB This lock would be sufficient for the project as we would not need to design our own lock and servo system. When a correct combination is entered the microcontroller would send a signal to unlock the door and then the lock would re engage when the door closes. # Criterion For Success Describe high-level goals that your project needs to achieve to be effective. These goals need to be clearly testable and not subjective. The code must be inputtable consistently by an authorized user, but precise enough to avoid random entrance. The lock needs to be easily programmable in order to change the combination. The knock/vibration sensor needs to be sensitive enough to detect quieter knocks, but not be triggered by regular activities like walking around an apartment. The knock combination needs to be rhythm based, in order to mimic a regular knocking pattern. |
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| 78 | Pitched Project: CfA Flying Area Accuracy Determination |
Alex Hu Bella Altenbach Juliana Temple |
Sarath Saroj | Arne Fliflet | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf proposal1.pdf proposal2.pdf |
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| Team members: - Alex Hu (alexxh2) - Juliana Temple (jtemple4) - Bella Altenbach (ialten2) # PROBLEM: The challenge faced right now is that the Intelligent Robotics Lab Facility would like to design a software that will analyze how consistently the position of a drone is able to be tracked throughout the Flying Arena based on the configuration of the motion tracking setup. The current motion tracker system (Vicon Tracker 3) gathers up to mm position accuracy, but it may be less reliable in some areas where the configuration does not allow for optimal observation. The goal is to see how the accuracy changes when going higher, lower, and further away into the arena and away from the cameras. Ideally, throughout testing the calibration of the motion tracking configuration can be improved based on where we identify these areas of high and low efficiency to be. # SOLUTION OVERVIEW: For our solution we will have to be able to actively track location and configuration of a test object or a flying drone using infrared LEDs. In order to track accurately we will be creating a calibration device using infrared LEDs (active marker) rather than reflective balls (passive marker) because the IR LEDs will be triggered from the flash of a camera. This allows location to be measured more reliably at a further distance. Additionally we would like to set individual IP addresses for each Led on the PCB so we can individually identify each marker and see the overall orientation during real time. A reference deck framework has already been made that has initial LED placements on all 4 arms for the main directions of the propellers, and we aim to design ours in a similar way. Using Vicon tracker 3 Motion Capture System and cameras, data on the location will be continuously recorded, and compared with the actual location of the calibration device. We plan on designing a software to measure the relative error in these measurements and assess where points of higher and lower accuracies are. Based on this, we will be able to reconfigure the camera locations in order to collect the most accurate position tracking data at all points throughout the arena. Example Reference deck: https://www.bitcraze.io/2019/09/the-active-marker-deck/ ## SOLUTION COMPONENTS: - PCB board - Infrared LEDS - Controllers to process data and orientation to actively see location - Vicon motion capture Camera for triggering LEDS and continuous recording - Vicon Tracker 3 software - Drone device/Test object to carry the PCB ## SUBSYSTEM 1: PCB and MARKERS - PCB board that contains multiple infrared LEDs that can be programmed into different configurations. These are active markers, and they activate upon camera flashes. Because LEDs emit light instead of just reflecting, they will be more effective in taking data throughout the whole volume of the arena. - Placing the LEDs in various configurations will help to get an accurate 3D location of the object, as they will allow the user to differentiate between up, down, left, and right. - This will be connected to the drone or test object discussed in Subsystem #2. - This will allow for testing of the calibration ## SUBSYSTEM 2: DRONE/TEST OBJECT - The drone can either be flown around the arena with the PCB attached, or the PCB itself can be carried throughout the arena to different locations. As our group is new to flying drones, the latter may be a safer option as to not harm any equipment. ## SUBSYSTEM 3: MOTION TRACKER and CAMERA SYSTEM - Vicon Tracker 3 Software -- This will allow the position of the object or drone specified in Subsystem #2 to be pinpointed - Vicon motion capture Camera -- The flash of this Camera will trigger the IR LEDS and continuously record data that can be analyzed by the user. ## SUBSYSTEM 4: SOFTWARE - Based on the actual location and the recorded location from what was recorded in Subsystem #3, we will design a software to determine how accurate the data is. - Based on this, we will analyze where the higher or lower areas of accuracy are and why. - Recorded data from the motion tracker setup will be streamed to the software over local WiFi. # CRITERION FOR SUCCESS: In order to reach success in this project we will separate the subsystems and take on each system individually to ensure that as we go each component functions as expected. First we will need to understand and improve our abilities using the Vicon software for the motion capture aspects, as none of us have prior experience using it. Next, we will need to design a PCB board that has IR LEDs strategically placed to gain the most efficient and readable directions from the test object moving around the arena. It should be programmable to test various configurations of the LEDs to achieve optimal calibration. Once this is done we will have to brainstorm and design a software program that will determine the accuracy of the motion-tracked locations versus the actual locations. Understanding the reason for why the accuracy is affected in certain places and creating a successful PCB board will be the strong points for our project to be successful. If time is permitted, repeated testing can be done to place the motion tracking cameras at different locations to improve the accuracy. |
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| 79 | SUPERCAPACITOR MODULE FOR ILLINI-ROBOMASTER ROBOT |
Haoyuan You Shaurya Grover |
Matthew Qi | Olga Mironenko | design_document1.pdf proposal1.pdf |
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| SUPERCAPACITOR MODULE FOR ILLINI-ROBOMASTER ROBOT Team Members: - You, Haoyuan (hy19) - Bernal, Sergio Enrique Jr (sergiob2) - Grover, Shaurya (sgrover4) PROBLEM Illini-Robomaster (iRM) is an RSO at UIUC competing in the Robomaster robotics competition. During a match, robots will be punished when exceeding the power limit (80W), but the monitoring system (referee system) is only checking the power output from the battery. To maximize available power for the motors and achieve greater mobility, we need a device to store and release energy. Existing solutions are either prohibited by the competition rules, too large to fit in our mobile robot, or sold at an unacceptable price by our competitor universities. SOLUTION We propose a supercapacitor module to supply power in addition to the battery. It should be capable to store energy from the battery when the robot is running on low power and release energy when the robot needs it. Thus, we have more power available. The supercapacitor module should be controlled by the master MCU on the robot and when additional power is needed, the master MCU can control the MCU on the module to release the power. We propose two solutions: 1. The capacitor sits between the battery and the rest of the robot’s power bus. The robot is powered entirely by the capacitor and the battery only charges the capacitor. The battery, capacitor, and the robot’s power bus are interconnected with DC-DC converters. Battery = DC-DC = Capacitor = DC-DC = Motors (Robot) “=” stands for power connection 2. The battery directly connects to the power bus and the capacitor is connected to the power bus with a bi-directional DC-DC converter. DC-DC converter charges the capacitor when the battery has extra power and reverts the direction of current when the robot needs extra power. We think this is a similar case to a redundant power supply design. Battery = Motors (Robot) = DC-DC (Bidirectional) = Capacitor “=” stands for power connection We think there are advantages to the second design due to one more DC-DC in the first design introduces extra power loss. Moreover, if the capacitor module breaks in the second design the rest of the robot is left unaffected. Yet we also think the second design is more challenging to implement. SOLUTION COMPONENTS CONTROL UNIT (SAME FOR BOTH DESIGNS) MCU Control the Power unit and communicate with the master MCU on the robot through CAN or UART. Either Atmega328 or STM32F103 depending on prototype performance. Voltage and current sensor Measure the voltage and current of the capacitor to estimate the power output and report to the master MCU POWER UNIT Capacitor array (Same for both designs) The game rule restricts the maximum energy storage to be 2000J and the max voltage on the power bus is 30V, so the max capacitance is around 4.4F. We might choose a smaller value for safety concerns. There is also an unused capacitor array in the RSO, we might consider integrating it into the module to reduce cost. Design 1: { Supercapacitor charging control module Charging of the capacitor from the battery, controlled by the MCU. This might be a DC-DC converter or off-the-shelf capacitor charging control module (like BQ24640) DC-DC module Convert the output voltage to the same voltage as the power bus (24V). Consider using a buck-boost converter. } Design 2: { Bi-directional DC-DC converter Convert the voltage from the power bus to the capacitor during charging and convert the capacitor's voltage to the power bus's during discharging. Controlled by the MCU to switch between two directions. } INTERFACES ON THE TARGETING ROBOT These are not part of the module but will be integrated with the module during the competition this June: 24V M3508 motors and C620 motor speed controllers. 24V battery The module should be able to sustain the induced current from the motors and not break any device powered by it. CRITERION FOR SUCCESS - Criterion 1: The supercapacitor module must be able to store a certain amount of energy - Criterion 2: The supercapacitor module must be able to release energy - Criterion 3: The supercapacitor module can be controlled by the master MCU |
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