3.4 Computer Control and Data Logging

Overview Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of computer control systems for the domestic home, traffic control and greenhouses in terms of input, process output, feedback

A control system Analogue Digital Inputs Sensors Computer + processing software Outputs INTERFACEINTERFACE

Home Control Examples Touch panels near doorways Security sensors Controlling devices from the internet Home cinema Underfloor heating A fingerprint entry system A network of motion sensors that switched the lights Taps operated by infra-red beam Swimming pools equipped with ionisation filtration systems Automatic awnings which cover terraces at the first sign of rain, An "intelligent" bedroom mirror which videos your image from behind and plays it on a plasma screen Mood lighting Fully-programmable audio systems Induction cooker hobs: Produce heat only when a saucepans placed on them Automated blinds and curtains

A working home The following web site shows a running video of a home of the future. It is a bit technical

Traffic Speed camera Contains video system with Automatic Number Plate Reading (ANPR) digital technology. Requires o a minimum of two cameras each fitted with infra red illuminators fitted on gantries above the road, It can work day or night It works out the vehicles average speed, given the time it takes to drive between the two camera positions iStockphoto

Greenhouse Sensors Temperature sensor measures the heat in the greenhouse and if too warm/cold turns on/off fans or opens/closes windows Air humidity sensor tests the moisture in the air and if too dry sprays water into the air Light sensor Soil moisture sensor a dds water to the soil if it i s to dry Light sensor measures the light and controls window blinds/shades as appropriate

Other examples: Fork lift driving/engineering Examples: Integrated manufacturing/engineering systems Computer-integrated engineering (CIE) Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) CAD/CAM links Robots Advantages: Continuous operation Improved reproducibility Increased speed Less hazardous environments iStockphoto

Other examples: Hospitals Examples Ambulance control systems (CAT) scanners Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners Automatic blood pressure monitors Heart monitors Oxygen monitors Intravenous drug measurement Surgical robots Blood pressure machine Hemera And iStockphoto

Definitions Data logging: recording data over time by using sensors Feedback: Where the output from the system influences what is put into the system Sensor: A device that measures a physical quantity

Acronyms ADC: Analog to Digital Converter DAC: Digital to Analogue converter

Discussion Computer control is very useful with regard to the disabled. Make a list of ICT devices designed to assist the disabled.

Discussion Discuss the consequences of these technologies 1. A refrigerator that can tell what’s sitting on the shelf with 80 percent accuracy therefore if you have a few potatoes, and onion and some pasta the fridge suggests what dish to make with these items 2. Web controlled home machines so that if you are going to be late home you can log on and turn the oven to low or put some lights or the heat on. 3. An oven mitt that when you touch the food decides whether it is cooked or not.

Research Think an ICT related gadget that could be invented that would be of value in the home In a word processed document try and incorporate a picture of what your gadget would look like. Add a short statement as to the function of your gadget.