Platform-Based Development (PBD): A Journey Through Embedded Systems and IoT
The Platform-Based Development (PBD) sessions offered an exciting deep dive into the realms of embedded systems and the Internet of Things (IoT). Spanning five sessions, the program took us from foundational programming to advanced control systems, blending hardware and software to craft interconnected solutions.
Session 1: Blinking LEDs – The First Step
Our journey began with a simple yet fundamental exercise: blinking LEDs. Using the Arduino Mega, we explored the basics of microcontroller programming, learning how to interface with LEDs and control their states via GPIO (General-Purpose Input/Output) pins. While the task seemed straightforward, it provided a crucial introduction to how microcontrollers interact with the physical world—setting the stage for more complex projects.
Session 2: Sensor Integration and Feedback
Building on the foundation of LEDs, we ventured into sensor integration. This session taught us how to read and process data from sensors using the Arduino Mega. Feedback loops emerged as a central concept, enabling systems to adapt dynamically to environmental inputs. We applied these principles to real-world scenarios such as temperature control and automation, gaining valuable insights into sensor-driven systems.
Session 3: Motor and Actuator Control
In the third session, we transitioned from passive components to dynamic ones, focusing on motors and actuators. We tackled challenges such as calculating power requirements, controlling speed, and managing directional motion. By combining mechanical and electronic systems, we explored practical concepts like torque, speed, and power. This session marked our entry into the realms of robotics and automation, as we successfully built basic motion systems.
Session 4: Evaluation and Testing
The fourth session emphasized the importance of iteration in engineering. We revisited and refined concepts from previous sessions, debugging our systems and enhancing our understanding of microcontroller programming, sensor integration, and motor control. This phase reinforced the iterative design process as a critical step toward creating reliable and robust solutions.
Session 5: Web-Based Control Systems
The final session brought everything together by integrating our systems with the web. We developed a simple webpage to remotely control the Arduino Mega, enabling actions like motor movement or LED blinking. This milestone illustrated the power of IoT, showcasing how physical systems can be managed in real time via remote interfaces—a cornerstone of modern smart devices.