Hardware Projects

Here are a few of the hardware projects we’ve worked on over the years.  Designing embedded systems is probably the funnest type of work a programmer can do because what you develop typically interacts in the real world, and not just the computer world.  For example, the Robotic and Access Control systems have non-computer related actions, like unlocking a door, and breathing through a bronze replica of a human head.  Very cool stuff!

Personal Workout Timer

workout timer 1This timer is designed for persons training in Kenpo and specifically using a heavy bag.  It lets you select the workout and rest durrations, so you can workout 1, 2, 3 or 4 minutes, then rest 30, 60, 90 or 120 seconds before beginning another of the three rounds.

It uses a 9-volt battery or 9-volt transformer for power, has a loud audiable start/break and stop tones, and automatically shuts off if not used in 2 minutes.

We used a Ubicom SX28 microcontroller running on its internal clock with some power-saving code we developed that allowed this unit to run almost 3-month on a 9 volt battery.

Access Control System

ess101-rev1

This device was among the first of its kind to allow users to activate and deactivate new users without the need for any external computer.  Also featured a retail mode, allowing store employees to enter from the front, and unlock from inside which then made the unit operate as a door chime.

We managed to put a lot of features in a device that fit in a double-gang box and looked like a telephone jack.  Very covert!

We developed this using a DS2250-t (8051 compatible microcontroller) along with a latching IC to expand the number of sensors being monitored.  All the code was in assembler and took less than 2 k-bytes.

Robotics

fred-rev1

This robot was developed for Krug Life Sciences, was made for testing oxygen mask for fighter pilots without actually having to put a pilots life in jeopardy.

The robot could be installed in an environmental chamber that is brought to altitude, then it would physically simulate the breathing of a pilot, including special breathing known as the M1, or hooking maneuver which keeps a pilot from blacking out in high G turns.  The system could also record a persons breathing, which would be played back by the robot.

This software system was very complex using LabView, Galil Script and a Galil motion controller.  A second version that controled two breathing robots on a single PC was developed for a special contract.

Communications Systems

embedded PSK32 System

We sought to create a PSK32  modem that could fit in a Altoids Mint can.  Using two Parallax SX28 microcontrolers, we were able to achieve a fairly reliable system that operated on a fixed frequency.