Developing your IOT requirements.
IOT, short for Internet of Things, is a new concept where small devices get hooked up to the Internet for various reasons (it can also include offline devices). Examples include sensors that detect if you need to buy certain items, then send you a notification on your phone; sensors that detect for certain gasses (for example a gas leak) and then notifies you.
All IOT devices run on very simple boards that consume very little power (some can even be run on solar power and a small battery) and process the inputs it receives, to reach a conclusion and then perform an action.
Developing IOT and similar devices
There are various platforms that are used in these IOT devices. We prefer using Arduino/Genuino boards due to their ease of use, great documentation and massive support for hundreds of sensors.
We can develop devices with very simple tasks, up to devices that need to process a lot of different sensors/inputs and reach conclusions to perform the correct required action, completely autonomous.
Typical Sensors used with IOT Devices
Typically we add some form of communications, like Bluetooth, Ethernet (LAN), WiFi (WLAN), GSM (cellphone internet) etc.
If required, we can add temperature sensors, including Thermocouples (high accuracy at high temperatures) or Thermistors (high accuracy at low temperatures).
Other sensors include gas sensors (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, propane etc), pH acidity sensors, distance sensors, humidity sensors and a lot more -> please ask if you have special requirements.
IOT Device Firmware
In order for the device to perform as required, we will write the firmware so that the device functions exactly as you plan and need it to perform.
The device can, based on input from sensors, control various electrical and even electrical-mechanical components. This include Servo’s, Stepper Motors, DC Motors, AC Motors, Heaters (and other high current items), Solenoids, Valves etc. In essence, anything you can control via a power connection.
Some samples of projects we are involved with
Steadicam Basic Focus Pulling System [icon name=”star” Size=”20″ Color=”#fc5a5a”]
On standard video camera systems, your focus and iris controls are located on the front of the camera, and usually it is no issue to operate it there. Using a Steadicam system, the camera is floating with the help of springs in mid air, thus touching the lens to operate the focus and iris controls can jerk the shot, not a good idea when you are in a live production.
Generally these focus pulling systems cost a lot of money, since it is considered a niche market. That said, these professional systems are worth the price tag, but what about someone just starting to do Steadicam, that simply can’t afford the professional versions? Well that is where our system comes in.
Using only a few components (including an Arduino Nano as the processor) we are able to create a servo controlled gear system that can control both the Focus and Iris from the Steadicam grip – no need for the operator to change his hands or even move his hands away from where his hands are.
This device is not specifically connected to the Internet, but features a micro screen to setup the system (screen can be off to not distract the operator, while the rest of the device remains working). The Servo motor ensures precise control.
This system can also be expanded to accommodate other features that might be required.