EMBEDDED SYSTEMS / PROJECT 01

 


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PROJECT 01: FUNCTIONAL CONCEPTS

WEEK 01 - Research Stage

In week 01, Mr Nedu introduced us to the concept of embedded system while briefing us on the first assignment guideline, which required us to research one embedded system concept and one interactive spatial design concept. Then, we needed to create an infographic that combined them to create a functional embedded system for an interactive space, which will be done as our final project. 

Figure 1 Project 01 Brief

As this was our first embedded system class and most of us were new to this module, Mr Nedu showed us an example of a functional embedded system, in which the speaker would respond to him when he said the keywords to his pre-programmed Raspberry Pi. To better understand how to organise the contents in our infographic, he also showed us some good examples by seniors from previous semesters. Before we start on our project, we need to form groups and give a name to the team. After further discussion with Celine and Natasha, we decided to name our group "The Three Musketeers".

Next, we brainstormed some ideas for our final project, as all projects in embedded systems were closely related to each other. It was a continuous development design process that guided us from a basic introduction to prototype making. We decided to use Celine's idea, which was to create interactive spaces for visitors to immerse themselves in when smelling different fragrances released. Without further delay, we distributed tasks among the 3 of us and started to research the assigned topic. I was in charge of how technology works and the recent advancements of technology. For my first research, I decided to use Home Automation as the technology to be used in our space, as we wished to include a fingerprint lock in our prototype. 

Figure 2.1 Initial Group Research for The Immersive Fragrance Showcase

WEEK 02 - Research Stage

Once we completed our first research, I sent the document to Mr Nedu for feedback. He suggested us to remove the door lock mechanism in the research as it was not necessary and related to the immersive fragrance concept that we had. Besides, he mentioned that the classification we have was not specific enough because we included both small and medium scales under one classification. For the technology part, Mr Nedu also recommended us to research on 4D cinema concept since 4D was an event-triggered technology. After getting feedback from him, we started our second research.

Mr Nedu extended the due date from week 2 to week 3 because most of us were still unclear about the assignment requirements. Therefore, he showed us an example that he made to guide us on how to research based on the requirements stated in the brief. Due to this, we have more time to modify our information and design our infographic. Our initial plan was to create 3 spaces with the themes: flower, wood and ocean. However, we decided to focus on making one space so that it wouldn't be too complicated for us to execute it.

During my research stage, I found that the 4D technology was closely related to our concept, in which the embedded system will be triggered and receive commands while sending signals to activate effects that replicate real-life settings, such as tilting seats or activating water sprays that simulate rain. It somehow looked similar to our plan, as fragrance will be released when the touch sensor is triggered. Then, we showed our modified research to Mr Nedu again for checking. Finally, our content was approved! We started to assemble our research findings into an infographic by using natural elements and brilliant colour schemes. 

Figure 2.2 Modified Group Research for The Immersive Fragrance Showcase

From this project, we have gotten a clearer understanding of what embedded systems are. It has provided the opportunity for me to research extra information to know more about embedded systems while exploring the 4D theatre technology, which helped me to understand how our project will work later on. By knowing the fundamentals of embedded systems, we could evaluate and analyse them easily. I believe that would be helpful for me to proceed with the upcoming projects.
Figure 3 Project 01 The Immersive Fragrance Showcase; Infographic

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