Reconfigurable computing
Small Embedded Systems
Unit 1.3
Embedded Systems Application Areas
Large Embedded Systems
Large embedded system
Example: medical scanner
Very high cost, complex, bulky system
https://gsy.bailiwickexpress.com/gsy/news/mobile-ct-scanner-helps-cut-waiting-times/?t=i#.Xas0J-hKiUk
Large Embedded Systems
Large embedded system
Example: medical scanner
Very high cost, complex, bulky system
Use an embedded single-board computer
Runs complex operating system
Simple Embedded System
Low cost systems
Few sensors
Simple user interface
Simple sequencing and control
Simple hardware
Very tight cost constraints
Adding Functionality to Simplicity
Internet-connected devices
Communicate to router via Wifi or mains signalling
Monitor and control from anywhere
https://techglimpse.com/crock-pot-smart-cooker-wemo-app-android-ios/
Smart Homes
Current products use mobile app to monitor/control
Heating, aircon, lighting, security, cooker …
Much current research is focussed on medical applications of smart technologies for out-patients
Example:
Cogwatch – EU funded consortium of universities, charities and companies
Use smart home and internet of things technologies for medical rehabilitation
The Cog Watch Project
Rehabilitation in the home for patients with cognitive impairment (e.g. stroke)
Everyday objects (e.g. kettles) have sensors to ensure that they are being used safely
Cameras monitor performance of everyday tasks to give feedback to patient and ensure safety
Smart Cities
Traffic centre aggregates data from sensors and cameras on roads and junctions
Adjusts timing of traffic lights to maximise traffic flow
https://www.crn.com.au/news/cisco-forms-iot-partnership-with-8-billion-infrastructure-firm-downer-497486?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=crn_autopost
Smart Cities
Car parking spaces sense whether they are occupied
Signal via Internet to display vacant parking spaces on drivers’ mobile devices
Wearable Computers
Smart watches
Smart glasses
Fitness aids
Pulse rate, sleep depth, pace and route tracking
https://www.fitbit.com/uk/shop/versa?color=petal
Wearables of the Future
Smart prosthetics
Protective systems for emergency services
https://www.firehouse.com/tech-comm/mobile-technology-accessories/article/21000640/wearable-technology-for-firefighters
Infra-red head-up-display
Wearables of the Future
Monitor medical outpatients’ condition so that they can return home from hospital
Health can be remotely monitored
Recall to hospital if necessary
https://www.todaysmedicaldevelopments.com/article/medical-wearable-technology/
Distributed Systems
Many small embedded systems:
Brakes
Steering
Throttle
communicate to form a complex whole
Drive-by-wire
Drive-by-wire
Historically cars used mechanical systems
shafts, pumps, hoses, coolers
to provide driver with direct physical control over
steering, throttle, brakes, …
Modern trend:
Use computers and electronics to sense driver actions
Transmit data to actuators on vehicle control systems
Drive-by-wire
Use computers and electronics to sense driver actions
Transmit data to actuators on vehicle control systems
Computer system may override/modify driver actions
e.g. pump brakes to avoid skid in icy conditions
http://www.autocarhire.com/travelblog/featured/infiniti-q50-to-introduce-first-steer-by-wire-technology/
Steering force sensors
Electronic clutch
Steering assist motors
Control modules
Autonomous Systems: Cars
Computer system monitors environment and has full control of steering, acceleration and braking
Proposed advantages:
Safety (machine can respond faster than human)
Better road capacity (safe stopping distance reduced)
Fuel economy and lower polluting emissions
Autonomous taxis do away with need for car parks
But, still huge worries about
Safety (computer can crash, in more ways than one)
Cybersecurity (great way to assassinate someone)
Privacy (the System knows where you are all the time)
Summary
Powerful devices with good communication capability are becoming cheap and readily available, leading to
Growth in “smart” devices
Growth in “connected” devices
Distributed systems can harvest data from a large range of devices to make good global decisions
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