Ssa Material 2
Ssa Material 2
Smart Systems are a key driving force for a range of rapidly emerging intelligent and
autonomous systems and objects such as self-driving cars, artificial pancreas, Internet of Things
(IoT), M2M-enabled advanced manufacturing robots or wearable health monitors.
The Internet of Things (IoT): The smart system needs a setup of connected devices, comprising sensors
and monitors to monitor smooth functioning of processes and devices so as to predict problems/failures in
advance and take corrective actions before any serious malfunctions.
Technology Enablers for Smart Systems
The Internet of Things (IoT): The smart system needs a setup of connected devices, comprising sensors
and monitors to monitor smooth functioning of processes and devices so as to predict problems/failures in
advance and take corrective actions before any serious malfunctions
Big Data Analytics: The large amount of data being generated by the connected devices can be
processed with AI tools, technologies, and algorithms to predict and prescribe. These models have
become more specialized and are becoming more sophisticated in nature
Cloud Computing: The cloud provides unlimited online storage, and powerful services such as
SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, and recently AaaS. Smart systems cannot sustain without cloud storage, which
is a major requirement for its effective implementation and availability of data on the go,
meaning anytime, anywhere accessibility to the stored data.
5G Networks: 5G communication technologies are all set to enhance the carrier bandwidths and
correspondingly the network speeds to support seamless transmission of data and provisioning of
network services to users in all dynamic and pervasive environments.
What Is Home Automation?
Home automation is the automatic control of electronic devices in your home. These devices are
connected to the Internet, which allows them to be controlled remotely. With home automation,
devices can trigger one another so you don’t have to control them manually via an app or voice
assistant
For example, you can put your lights on schedules so that they turn off when you normally go to
sleep, or you can have your thermostat turn the A/C up about an hour before you return to work
so you don’t have to return to a stuffy house
How Does Home Automation Work?
Home automation works via a network of devices that are connected to the Internet through
different communication protocols, i.e Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and others.
Monitoring: Monitoring means that users can check in on their devices remotely through
an app. For example, someone could view their live feed from a smart security camera.
Automation: Finally, automation means setting up devices to trigger one another, like
having a smart siren go off whenever an armed security camera detects motion.
Home Automation System Components
While some home automation systems require hubs, some mobile applications connect directly
to a router, which connects directly to an IoT device.
Remote Control
The hallmark of home automation is remote control, which is done through either a mobile
application or through a voice assistant.
Mobile Application: The mobile application allows users to control their devices in real-time,
whether it’s shutting off the outdoor lights or opening the smart garage door for a neighbor
Voice Assistants: If home automation is the sundae, think of voice assistants as the cherry on
top. With voice assistants, you can use your voice to control devices, whether that’s disarming a
security system as you walk in the front door, showing your video doorbell’s footage on your
Echo Show device, or setting a timer on a smart speaker while your hands are full of cooking
utensils
Most IoT devices work with one of three voice assistants: Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
Alexa: Alexa is Amazon’s voice assistant that’s built into Echo Show and Echo Dot
devices. Alexa is the voice assistant we see integrated into the highest number of smart
home devices from companies like SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm, and Cove.
Google Assistant: Google Assistant, is, as you can imagine, Google’s voice assistant. Although
Google Assistant has fewer “skills” or “actions” than Alexa, it has been proven to be the most
accurate voice assistant in terms of understanding and answering queries correctly.
Siri: Siri is Apple’s voice assistant that’s integrated into the iPhone. While Siri holds 35 percent
of the global market share for voice assistants, compared to nine percent and four percent with
Google Assistant and Alexa,3 respectively, there aren’t too many IoT devices that work with Siri.
1. Convenience:
Smart homes offer convenience by allowing you to systems with ease control various
devices and. You can use voice commands or smartphone apps to adjust lighting, temperature,
security settings, and more, from anywhere in the world.
2. Energy Efficiency:
Smart homes promote energy efficiency by providing tools to monitor and manage energy
consumption. Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling based on occupancy and can save
energy and reduce utility bills. Smart lighting systems enable efficient use of lighting through
dimming, scheduling, and occupancy sensors.
3. Enhanced Security:
Smart homes provide enhanced security through features like video doorbells, security
cameras, and smart locks. You can monitor your home remotely, receive real-time alerts, and
have better control over access to your property.
Smart homes allow you to customize your living environment for maximum comfort.
You can create personalized lighting scenes, set preferred temperatures, and automate routines to
match your daily needs and preferences.
With smart home technology, you can monitor and manage your home remotely. Whether
you're at work or on vacation, you can check security camera feeds, adjust settings, and receive
notifications about any unusual activities or events.
Smart homes offer integration with various devices and platforms, allowing you to create a
connected ecosystem. You can synchronize devices, tasks, and automate enjoy seamless control
and communication between different smart devices.
1. Cost:
The initial cost of implementing a smart home system can be relatively high. Smart devices,
installation, and ongoing maintenance can add up, making it a significant investment. However,
costs have been decreasing as smart home technology becomes more accessible.
Smart homes collect and process data, raising concerns about privacy and security. Hackers
could potentially gain unauthorized access to your smart devices, compromising your privacy
and even physical security. It's crucial to implement strong security measures, such as using
unique passwords and keeping firmware updated.
4. Dependence on Technology:
Smart homes rely on technology, and any technical failures or network outages can disrupt
functionality. If the internet goes down or there's a power outage, some features may not be
accessible until the issue is resolved.
Transitioning to a smart home requires some learning and adapting to new technology.
Setting up devices, configuring settings, and troubleshooting issues may require technical
knowledge or assistance. Some individuals may find the complexity overwhelming.
It's important to consider these advantages and disadvantages when deciding to adopt
smart home technology. Assess your needs, budget, and willingness to embrace the possibilities
and challenges of a connected home.
The Internet of Things (IoT) has enabled the development of smart homes, where various
devices and appliances are connected to the internet and can communicate with each other,
allowing for greater automation and control. Here are some of the applications of IoT in smart
homes:
1. Smart thermostats: IoT-enabled smart thermostats can learn your temperature preferences
and automatically adjust the temperature of your home to save energy. They can also be
controlled remotely via a smartphone app.
2. Smart lighting: IoT-enabled smart lighting systems can be controlled via a smartphone app,
allowing you to turn lights on and off, adjust brightness, and change colors remotely. They can
also be programmed to turn on or off at specific times or when you enter or leave a room.
3. Smart locks: IoT-enabled smart locks can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing you
to lock or unlock your doors remotely. They can also be programmed to unlock automatically
when you arrive home or lock automatically when you leave.
4. Smart home security systems: IoT-enabled home security systems can include cameras,
sensors, and alarms that can be monitored and controlled remotely via a smartphone app. They
can also send alerts to your phone if there is unusual activity in your home.
The selection of hardware and software for computer-based information systems projects
involves several criteria, including:
1. System Requirements: The hardware and software must meet the specific technical
requirements of the project, such as processing power, memory, storage, and
compatibility with existing systems.
2. Scalability: The chosen hardware and software should be capable of scaling to
accommodate future growth and increased demand.
3. Reliability: The reliability of the hardware and software is crucial to ensure smooth
operation and minimal downtime.
4. Security: Security features and capabilities are essential to protect sensitive data and
prevent unauthorized access.
5. Compatibility: The selected hardware and software should be compatible with other
systems and technologies already in use within the organization.
6. Cost: The cost of the hardware and software, including acquisition, implementation, and
maintenance, is an important factor in the selection process.
7. Support and Maintenance: Consideration should be given to the availability of support
services and ongoing maintenance for the chosen hardware and software.
8. User Experience: The usability and user-friendliness of the hardware and software are
important for ensuring user adoption and productivity.
These criteria help ensure that the selected hardware and software align with the needs
and goals of the information systems project.
Hardware and software selection is a crucial aspect of data mining and warehousing projects as it
directly impacts the efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of the system. Here is a brief overview
of what to consider when selecting hardware and software for data mining and warehousing:
Hardware Selection:
1. Processing Power: The hardware must have enough processing power to handle large data sets
and complex data mining algorithms.
2. Storage Capacity: The system must have adequate storage to hold the data warehouse and the
data mining models.
3. Scalability: The hardware must be able to scale up or down according to the organization’s
changing data needs.
4. Network Speed: The hardware should support high-speed network connectivity to ensure
that data transfer between the data warehouse and data mining algorithms is seamless .
Software Selection:
1. Data Mining Algorithms: The software must support a wide range of data mining
algorithms to ensure that the organization can extract insights from its data.
2. Data Warehousing: The software should support the creation of a robust and scalable data
warehouse.
3. Data Visualization: The software should provide interactive and easy-to-use data
visualization tools to help users make sense of the data.
4. Integration: The software must be compatible with the organization’s existing IT
infrastructure, including databases and data sources.
A smart sensor is a device that uses a transducer to gather particular data from a physical
environment to perform a predefined & programmed function on the particular type of gathered
data then it transmits the data through a networked connection.
The features of the smart sensor are; self-identification, digital sensor data, smart
calibration & compensation, multi-sensing capacity, sensor communication for configuration of
remote & remote monitoring, etc.
Smart sensors work by capturing data from physical environments & changing their
physical properties like speed, temperature, pressure, mass, or presence of humans into
calculable electrical signals. These sensors include a Digital Motion Processor (DMP). Here a
DMP is one type of microprocessor that allows the sensor to perform onboard processing of the
smart sensor data like filtering noise otherwise performing different kinds of signal conditioning .
Measurements are simply taken through detecting physical signals & changing them into
electrical signals. So this will help in monitoring and measuring things like temperature,
traffic, & industrial applications.
Configuration function is a significant feature as it allows the smart sensor to detect position
otherwise installation errors
The verification function has different uses like nonstop supervision of sensor behavior, using
a set of supervisory circuits or equipment executed within the sensor.
Lastly, the communication feature allows the sensor to converse to the main microcontroller/
microprocessor.
Smart Sensor Block Diagram
The block diagram of the smart sensor is shown below. This block diagram includes different
blocks like sensing unit, signal conditioning, analog to digital conversion, application algorithms,
local user interface, memory, and communication unit or transceiver.
Sensing Unit
This unit detects the changes in physical parameters & generates electrical signals
equivalent to it. Signal
Conditioning Unit
The signal conditioning unit controls the signal to meet the necessities of next-level
operations without losing data.
ADC converts the signal from analog to digital format & sends it to the microprocessor.
Local User Interface
The local user interface or LUI is a panel-mounted device used to allow building operators
to monitor & control system equipment.
Application Algorithm
The signals from smart sensors reach here & process the received data based on the application
programs previously loaded here & generate output signals.
Memory
The output signals from the application algorithm or microprocessor are transmitted to the main
station through the communication unit. This unit also gets command requirements from the key
station to execute specific tasks.
There are different types of smart sensor available in the market which is explained below.
Level Sensors
A level sensor is one type of device used to monitor measure & maintain liquid levels. Whenever
the level of liquid is sensed, this sensor changes the data into an electric signal.
Level sensors are classified into two types point level & continuous level. A point level sensor is
used to specify whether a liquid has achieved an exact point within a container whereas
continuous level type sensors are used to provide precise measurements for liquid level. These
sensors are mainly used in different industries like automotive, manufacturing, and also in
household applications.
Temperature Sensors
Temperature sensors are used to measure temperatures like liquid temperature, air temperature,
or solid matter temperature. These sensors are available in different types which use different
principles to measure the temperature like RTDs, NTC thermistors, thermopiles &
thermocouples. These sensors are mainly used in medical devices, computers, automobiles,
cooking appliances & other types of machinery.
Pressure Sensors
A pressure sensor is a transducer that changes the mechanical pressure input into an
electrical output signal. There are different types of pressure sensors available based on capacity,
size, sensing technology, measurement method &output requirements. These sensors play a key
role in monitoring pipelines & give an alert to overseers if there are any leaks otherwise
irregularities so that they can repair or maintain pipelines.
Infrared Sensors
An infrared sensor is an electronic device used to emit light to detect some object in the
surroundings and measures the object’s heat & detects the motion. Generally, all the objects will
emit some form of thermal radiation within the IR spectrum which is invisible but the IR sensor
can sense these radiations.
IR sensor includes a transmitter like an IR LED and receiver as an IR photodiode. For infrared
transmission, three types of media are used vacuum, atmosphere & optical fibers. These sensors
are used in night vision devices, radiation thermometers, IR tracking, IR imaging, etc.
Proximity Sensors
A smart sensor like a proximity sensor is used to notice the existence of objects in its
surrounding area without contacting them. These sensors are frequently used in collision
avoidance systems & collision warnings. This sensor uses light, sound, IR radiation otherwise
electromagnetic fields to notice an object.
IR sensor includes a transmitter like an IR LED and receiver as an IR photodiode. For infrared
transmission, three types of media are used vacuum, atmosphere & optical fibers. These sensors
are used in night vision devices, radiation thermometers, IR tracking, IR imaging, etc.
Air quality detection sensors are electronic devices that are used to detect & monitor the air
pollution within the air in the nearby area. So, these sensors efficiently work for indoor &
outdoor purposes. Air quality sensors are capable of checking the CO2 concentrations through
VOC (volatile organic compounds) that have methane & ammonia as gases.
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are electronic devices, used to detect movement inside and surroundings of your
home and give an alert. For instance, this sensor can activate the lights once it detects you while
entering into a room otherwise, they can give an alert once an intruder is trying to enter your
home. These types of sensors are mainly used in homes, security systems, paper towel
dispensers, phones, virtual reality systems & game consoles.
Smart Plant Sensors
Plant sensors are advanced gardening sensors used to provide the data to the user from stem
surface, leaf to root probes to feed the plants. They explain to us what nourishment and care are
required for the plant.
This sensor is very simple to use by placing it into the soil of the plant pot beside the
potted plant. After that, it monitors the level of moisture, light intensity, the temperature
automatically to maintain the plant properly. The current plant sensors give an alert through
smartphones to keep checking your plant’s condition remotely and take appropriate action.
Smart climate sensors are used to gather the data of barometric pressure, temperature &
humidity that assist in evaluating the exact weather conditions & calculate as well. These sensors
will assist you in setting your plan accordingly because these sensors are connected through your
Smartphone to send alerts throughout the frequent changes within the weather. These sensors are
essential for gardening and are connected to smart irrigation systems.
Advantages
Applications
Smart sensors are used mainly for monitoring & control mechanisms in different
environments like water level & food monitoring systems, smart grids, traffic monitoring &
control, environmental monitoring, conserving energy in artificial lighting, monitoring of the
remote system, and fault diagnostics of equipment, transport & logistics, agriculture,
telecommunications, industrial applications, animal tracking, etc.
ACTUATORS
An actuator is a device that receives an energy input and converts it into motion or force and is
an essential component in many modern technologies and engineering fields. From robotics to
renewable energy, actuators play a critical role in controlling and automating various processes
and systems.
Power converter: If the energy source attached to the actuators is unregulated, it requires some
additional apparatus to regulate it and convert it into a form suitable for the actuation action
The most apparent and basic classification of actuators is based on the type of motion that it
produces.
Rotary Actuator
The actuators that can provide a circular motion at their output can be classified under the
category of rotary actuators. When it comes to rotational motion, it is hard to think of any other
device than the motors, which we shall discuss in the next section of this article.
Linear Actuators
The actuators that can provide motion in a straight line at their output can be classified under the
category of linear actuators. Hydraulic or Pneumatic actuators are the most common linear
actuators used in the industry.
The energy source can be another means of classification for the actuators.
Electromagnetic Actuators
Electromagnetic actuators make use of electrical energy and magnetic fields to perform
actuation. These actuators are among the most commonly used actuators in the industries.
Stepper motors are used for applications where the angular position of the shaft needs to
be accurately controlled. The control scheme of the stepper motor is simple, accurate and doesn’t
require any feedback.
The stator of the stepper motor contains multiple teeth, each acting as a pole for the rotor.
When a particular pole or a set of poles are energised, the rotor reorients itself to allow maximum
MMF to pass through it. When the next step of the poles is energised, the rotor shifts its position.
This allows the rotor to complete a revolution in several distinct steps, and that’s how the motor
gets its name.
Solenoid Actuators
A solenoid actuator consists of a conducting coil wound on a ferromagnetic core with a flat head
on one side and a spring connected on the other. The whole apparatus is placed in a hollow
cylindrical body. Whenever electric current flows through the wire, the coil acts as an
electromagnet, attracting the ferromagnetic core in one direction and compressing the spring
during the process
The actuators that make use of liquids or gasses are called fluid power actuators. On a very
superficial level, we can think of a fluid power actuator as a moving disk inside a hollow
cylinder filled with fluid forming a piston. The movement of the disk appears as the motion of
the actuator. Advanced fluid actuators with dual-acting cylinders make use of fluid for both
extension and retracement strokes.
Hydraulic Actuators
These actuators make use of liquids as a driving force to produce mechanical work. Hydraulic
Actuators are probably the most widely used linear actuators in real-life applications. These
devices are used when stable, but high actuating thrust/high forces are required in a small region
Mechanical Actuators
Thermal Actuators
.
Actuator Applications
An actuator that can generate sufficient force has suitable load-speed characteristics, works in the
operating range with high efficiency, and comes with a robust design is considered ideal for a
given application. Their significance in industrial applications like robotics, automotive,
aerospace, and medical devices is paramount.
Automotive Industry
Actuators play a critical role in the automotive industry, contributing to the functionality, safety,
and performance of modern vehicles. They are used in various systems and components,
enabling precise control and movement in response to driver inputs and environmental
conditions.
Engine and transmission control systems rely on actuators to manage essential functions such
as throttle control, fuel injection, and gear shifting. These actuators ensure optimal
engine performance, fuel efficiency, and smooth gear transitions, contributing to a
comfortable and efficient driving experience.
Suspension systems use actuators to adjust the vehicle's ride height, damping, and stiffness,
adapting to different road conditions and driving styles. Active suspension systems, in particular,
employ actuators to continuously adjust the suspension settings in real-time, providing improved
handling, comfort, and safety.
Braking systems incorporate actuators to apply and release the brakes, ensuring effective
stopping power and vehicle stability. Advanced braking systems, such as anti-lock braking
systems (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC), use actuators to modulate brake pressure in
response to wheel slip and vehicle dynamics, enhancing safety and control during critical driving
situations.
Steering systems
utilize actuators to assist the driver in turning the vehicle, reducing the effort required to
steer and improving responsiveness. Electric power steering (EPS) systems, for example, use
electric actuators to provide variable levels of steering assistance based on vehicle speed and
driver input, offering improved fuel efficiency and a more precise steering feel compared to
traditional hydraulic systems.
Climate control systems employ actuators to regulate airflow, temperature, and humidity within
the vehicle cabin, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants. These actuators control the
operation of fans, vents, and heating or cooling elements, maintaining the desired temperature
and air quality settings.
In summary, actuators are integral to the operation and performance of modern vehicles,
contributing to enhanced safety, comfort, and efficiency. As automotive technology continues to
evolve, the demand for advanced actuators with improved performance and reliability is
expected to grow, driving further innovation in this critical field.
Aerospace Industry
Actuators play a crucial role in the aerospace industry, where they are used in various systems
and components to ensure precise control, reliability, and safety. From aircraft flight control
systems to spacecraft propulsion, actuators are essential for the proper functioning of aerospace
vehicles and equipment.
Flight control systems in aircraft rely on actuators to manipulate control surfaces such as
ailerons, elevators, and rudders. These actuators respond to pilot inputs and autopilot commands,
adjusting the control surfaces to achieve the desired changes in pitch, roll, and yaw.
Medical Industry
Actuators in the medical industry are pivotal, ensuring precision, safety, and adaptability in
various medical devices and procedures. Their role is indispensable in both diagnostic and
therapeutic applications, making them a cornerstone of modern medical technology.
Surgical robots, for instance, employ actuators to achieve intricate movements during
procedures. These actuators allow for a high degree of precision, enabling surgeons to perform
complex surgeries with minimal invasiveness. The result is reduced recovery times and enhanced
patient outcomes.
Medical imaging devices, such as MRI and CT scanners, utilize actuators to adjust the position
of the patient or the imaging component. This ensures optimal imaging angles and patient
comfort, leading to more accurate diagnostics.
In the medical industry, the emphasis on patient safety, comfort, and positive outcomes
necessitates the continuous evolution of actuator technology. As medical science progresses, the
integration of advanced actuators will be paramount, paving the way for more innovative,
efficient, and patient-centric solutions.
COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
A smart home protocol is a set of standards that determine how devices within a smart home
ecosystem communicate. It acts as a device’s language, enabling it to interact seamlessly with
other smart home solutions and exchange information
Communication protocols help with authentication data transmission, and error detection and
correction. Moreover, they ensure that devices can exchange information reliably and securely.
7 most commonly used IoT protocols
1.Ethernet
About technology
Ethernet is a wired communication technology commonly used for local area networks (LANs).
It operates via twisted pair and fiber-optic cables to transmit data at high speed. Ethernet follows
the IEEE 802.3 standard and supports reliable and secure data transmission over a network.
Benefits
Ethernet provides a stable and robust connection for smart home devices. Due to high bandwidth,
Ethernet is suitable for devices that require a fast and reliable Internet connection, such as smart
TVs, gaming consoles, and media streaming devices, as well as for devices that operate within a
local network. Ethernet connections also eliminate the risk of network interference, ensuring
reliable communication between devices
Limitations
Ethernet requires running cables throughout the home, which can be burdensome for end users.
Therefore, Ethernet is the most suitable option when wired connections are already in place.
2. Wi-Fi
About technology
Wi-Fi is a wireless communication technology that allows devices to connect to a network via
radio waves. It follows the IEEE 802.11 standard and operates on different frequency bands,
from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz. Wi-Fi is one of the most popular smart home wireless protocols.
Benefits
Wi-Fi is highly versatile and widely supported, which makes it suitable for a broad range of
smart home devices. It provides an extensive coverage, enabling devices to connect
from different spots within home. Wi-Fi provides the bandwidth sufficient for data-intensive
devices (e.g., video streaming).
Limitations
Wi-Fi can interfere with devices that operate on different frequencies as well as obstacles like
walls or furniture, which may affect signal strength and coverage. Additionally, Wi-Fi
devices consume more power compared to low-power protocols, making it less suitable for
battery-powered smart home devices.
Security
Wi-Fi runs on WPA2 and WPA encryption protocols to protect data transmitted over the
network. However, the security of a Wi-Fi network also depends on factors like strong
passwords and regular firmware updates that address vulnerabilities.
About technology
Bluetooth and BLE are wireless communication technologies designed for low-power devices.
They operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and enable devices to transmit and receive data
wirelessly over short distances.
Benefits
Bluetooth and BLE are go-to communication protocols for battery-powered smart home devices
due to their low energy consumption. They enable efficient data transferring and support direct
device-to-device communication. Note that Bluetooth supports more features but consumes more
power. You can use Bluetooth and BLE if you develop smart locks, sensors, and light bulbs.
Limitations
Bluetooth’s and BLE’s short-range nature limits its coverage area within end user’s home. While
it’s perfect for low-power applications, it doesn’t work for devices that require extensive
coverage or high data transfer rates.
Security
Bluetooth and BLE use AES-CCM encryption to protect data transmission. However, as with
any wireless protocol, it's crucial to ensure that devices and firmware are up to date
About technology
With the Zigbee protocol, devices act as nodes, which extends the network coverage. If any node
fails, such mesh networks can automatically reconfigure and maintain connection with other
nodes.
Benefits
Zigbee is suitable for smart home solutions due to its low power consumption and mesh
networking capabilities. This protocol establishes reliable communication between devices. You
can use it if you develop smart lighting, thermostats, and sensors.
Limitations
Zigbee's limited range makes it less suitable for large homes and spaces with significant physical
barriers. It may require additional Zigbee routers or repeaters to extend the coverage, which
increases the overall cost and complexity of the network.
Security
To secure communication, Zigbee relies on the AES-128 standard. The manufacturer regularly
improves vulnerabilities and updates the firmware
5.Z-Wave
About technology
Z-Wave is a wireless communication protocol that operates in the sub-GHz frequency band (less
than 1 GHz), providing reliable and secure communication between devices. Z-Wave devices
form a mesh network with devices acting as nodes to increase the network coverage and
maintain connection if any node fails.
Benefits
In a Z-Wave mesh network, devices act as repeaters, extending the network coverage. This self-
healing network structure enhances the reliability and range of the network. If one device fails,
the network reroutes signals through other available routes, ensuring continuous communication.
Z-Wave is a low-power protocol that can be used for smart lighting, security systems, and smart
thermostats.
Limitations
Z-Wave is a proprietary communication protocol, which means it may have limited compatibility
with devices developed by third-party manufacturers.
Security
Z-Wave operates on AES-128 encryption and supports two-way authentication between devices
to ensure only authorized devices can join the network. Z-Wave ensures constant security via
OTA updates.
6. Thread
About technology
Thread is a wireless communication protocol that works over IPv6 with 2.4 GHz frequency and
follows a mesh network topology.
Benefits
Thread ensures the scalability of smart home systems, allowing for seamless device addition to
the network. The protocol provides energy efficiency, making it suitable for battery-powered
devices. Thread also supports secure and reliable communication within a smart home
ecosystem.
Limitations
Thread has relatively limited device availability compared to more widespread protocols like Wi-
Fi or Zigbee. This may impact the range of devices your end users can choose for their smart
home system.
Security
Thread has a built-in security layer, which protects devices from unauthorized attacks and data
leaks. Regular OTA updates enhance the firmware structure, preventing security breaches.
7. Matter
About technology
The smart home Matter protocol is an open-source standard for devices running on wireless
communication protocols. Matter works on IPv6, which makes it a universal solution as almost
all end users already have Wi-Fi network at homes. Matter works over Thread, Wi-Fi, and
Ethernet.
Benefits
between them. End users can control their Matter-enabled devices from one app, which increases
customer satisfaction with the smart home system.
Limitations
To use Matter for your device, you will need a certification from Connectivity Standards
Alliance (CSA).
Security
As a protocol used for home automation, Matter protects users’ data via the AES 128 encryption
standard. End users can also receive OTA updates on Matter-enabled devices.
With all the benefits and limitations, home automation protocols offer different features that you
can benefit from when developing your solution. That’s why you should analyze your project
requirements to choose the right communication protocol that will enhance your product.
UNIT II HOME AUTOMATION
In the present scenario, the automation industry plays a very major role in human day-to-day
living. The word automation means making the use of machinery instead of human efforts as
well as it may be defined as the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system that
operates automatically. Automation has become very relevant in many sectors of society which
are as follows:
1. Medical Sector.
2. Food Services.
3. Law Enforcement.
4. Transportation System.
5. Manufacturing Sector.
6. Education Field.
7. Home Automation.
Home Automation is a system that allows users to control various appliances of varying kinds
and also makes controlling of home appliances easier and saves energy. Nowadays
home automation is used more and more. On the other hand, it provides increased comfort
especially when everyone is busy with their work. Home automation installed in houses does
not only increase comfort but also allows centralized control of heating, ventilation, air-
condition, and lighting. Hence, they contribute to an overall cost reduction and also useful in
energy saving which is certainly the main problem today.
In present years, wireless systems like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth have become more and more common
in home networking. Also in home automation, the use of wireless technologies gives several
advantages that could not be achieved using a wired network only.
Home Automation Components: At the most initial level, home automation systems are
made up of three elements-
1. A smart device.
2. A hub.
3. A connected application.
While some other home automation systems work with just two elements which include a
single device that works with the help of an app on mobile or a tablet or a system that includes
a hands-free hub that controls home automation system while most of the systems work using
all the above three components.
1. Smart Devices: These are the real powerhouse of any home automation system. These are
the main parts that actually implement the whole system commands. Examples of the smart
devices which can be added to any home automation to complete the whole system are as
follows:
Access Control
Security Devices: This includes security cameras, smart locks.
Home Appliances: Smart refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and ovens already
exist.
Smaller Appliances: As automatic coffee pots and electric kettle have been also
around for a while too
Climate Controls: Climate control system with energy management systems
Smart Thermostats.
Entertainment Pieces: Entertainment includes smart TVs, wireless speakers, and film
projectors
Health Care Devices: Smart humidifiers and smart scales are two common examples
of health care devices.
Lighting Controls: They include dimmers, light bulbs, light strips, and switches, etc.
A high-speed internet plays an important role in smooth connectivity and also plays an
important reliable performance between Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
2. Smart Hubs: The hub is the controlling center of the home automation system. It is
the piece that connects your individual devices and helps them talk to one another.
3. Mobile Apps: The mobile application provides an interface between the user and the
system. It gives you the ability to control or monitor your smart devices remotely. They
can be easily downloaded with the help of a provided application on mobile and
provide access control of the system, power controls, timer access, and many more
things.
Home automation works with the help of a network of devices that are connected to the
Internet through different communication systems like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and others.
Through these devices can be managed remotely through controllers through an app. Many of
these IoT devices have sensors that monitor changes in motion, temperature, and light so the
user can gain information about the device’s surroundings.
Three steps are followed in Home automation as follows:
1. Monitoring: This means keeping the control of the system using an app on a device
remotely.
2. Control: This means that the system can be controlled remotely from anywhere through
the app by the user.
3. Automation: Automation means making almost all devices automatic for making it a
better system.
Applications: Some of the most common applications of home automation are as follows-
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Lighting control system.
Occupancy-aware control system.
Leak detection.
Smoke sensors.
Indoor positioning systems.
Home automation for the elderly and disabled.
Air quality control.
Smart Kitchen.
Connected Cooking.
Voice control devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home used to control home
appliances or systems etc.
Security And Privacy Concern: The security and privacy of any home automation system are
at the top level for keeping the working of home automation smoothly. So, there are some steps
or knowledge it can be achieved easily and vastly which are as follows:
1. Privacy Policy: Read the privacy policy carefully and know each and every point about
how they share it and sell it to third parties.
2. Naming of Router: Be sure to give your router a name except for the name it came with
when get purchased.
3. Encryption: Select an end-to-end encrypted method for your Wi-Fi, like WPA2.
4. WiFi Password: Make separate passwords for each Wi-Fi connection to your devices.
5. Separate WiFi Network: For the most security for your IoT devices use a separate Wi-Fi
network for IoT devices only. This will also create faster Internet speeds all around.
6. Password: Make your home automation password protected. Choose a strong password for
the WI-Fi network.
7. Device settings: Devices have features enabled by default that are not necessarily required
so, turn it off when these features are not in use like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and knowing your
location i.e. Location Tracking feature.
8. Software Updates: The software update is also the most important step in security because
it performs all the steps needed for security or privacy concerns.
9. Authentication: Using a two-factor authentication system will help a lot because by this
the password or any kind of verification first comes to your mobile phone then only any
application gets opened.
10. VPN: It stands for Virtual Private Network. If VPN is being used or any other public
network for connection, then hide your IP address.
Energy Savings: Self-automated light bulbs, fans, and switchboards save energy, cutting
utility costs over time.
Home Safety: Home automation provides the best technologies for home security.
Consumers purchase these devices because they want to make their homes safer and more
secure. Automatic lighting systems and motion sensors help people to enter doors and walk
late at night.
User Convenient: Because home automation performs role tasks automatically, end-users
experience great convenience. For instance, you could use sensors indoors to turn on your
smart lighting when you unlock the front door.
Better Control: Consumers also choose smart home devices to better control functions
within the home. With home automation technology, you can know easily what’s
happening inside your home at all times.
Comfortable Atmosphere: All Connected devices around our home can also help to create
a comfortable atmosphere—they provide intelligent and reliable lighting, sound, and
temperature, which can all help to create a comfortable environment.
Provide Peace of Mind: This system may help consumers to invest in home automation
for peace of mind.
Remote Access: Being able to control devices remotely means things like unlocking the
door for a plant sitter without having to leave a key under the mat.
lighting
lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve practical or aesthetic effects.
Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as
natural illumination by capturing daylight.
security
Security is protection from, or resilience against, potential harm. Beneficiaries of security
may be persons and social groups, objects and institutions, ecosystems, or any other entity or
phenomenon vulnerable to unwanted change.
Thermostat
Thermostats are one of the most popular IoT devices for home automation. They are
designed to control home heating and cooling, optimizing energy … Smart thermostats provide
temperature control, ensuring comfort while promoting energy efficiency.
Smart thermostats, such as Google Nest, come with integrated Wi-Fi, letting users schedule,
monitor and remotely control home temperatures.
Voice assiatants
Voice assistants have revolutionized how we interact with our homes. We use them to
execute commands or ask for information by simply speaking. Typically Voice Assistants are
tied to the platforms that the manufacturer provides, for example Alexa is available on Amazon
Echo Smart Speakers
Automation
Automation describes a wide range of technologies that reduce human intervention in
processes, mainly by predetermining decision criteria, subprocess relationships, and related
actions, as well as embodying those predeterminations in machines. A home automation system
today goes way beyond household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers
Entertainment
Entertainment is a form of activity that holds the attention and interest of an audience or
gives pleasure and delight. It can be an idea or a task, but it is more likely to be one of the
activities or events that have developed over thousands of years specifically for the purpose of
keeping an audience's attention.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS OF HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM
Connectivity and Range
Designing a wireless home automation system that is scalable and flexible allows for future
expansion and customization. Consider the potential growth of the system and ensure that it can
accommodate additional devices and functionalities without significant modifications.
Implementing a modular design approach, where new devices can be easily integrated, provides
homeowners with the flexibility to adapt the system to their changing needs and preferences.
Power Efficiency
Designing a wireless home automation system with power efficiency in mind is crucial to
prolong battery life in wireless devices and minimize energy consumption. Employing low-
power wireless protocols, optimizing communication intervals, and utilizing energy-efficient
components can help achieve this goal. Furthermore, incorporating energy management features
like sleep modes and power scheduling can enhance power efficiency without compromising
functionality.
User Experience and Interface Design
Thermistors can be used to control air conditioners, refrigerators, geysers, heating system, or
in case of fire.
Humidity sensors sense the moisture level in the environment.
Gas sensors can be used to detect gas leaks.
Light sensors can be used to detect the luminous intensity in the house.
The information provided by these sensors (after signal conditioning) is used by the
processor to make several important decisions regarding the appliances and when to switch them
ON or OFF.
Security level:
Another major requirement while designing the home automation system is to make the
entire system secure so that it can’t be easily altered to give control of the house to unauthorized
users. It should be able to prevent most types of intrusion. Even if the system is broken into, it
should be able to send signals to the user and the nearest police station.
It also necessary to hide as many components as possible from direct access via the main
control panel, preventing it from being turned into a black box. It should also be able to send and
comprehend encoded data while communicating with other devices. This will prevent intruders
from tapping into the system and using the same interface to hack devices.
Topology:
Topology defines the way home automation control units interact with each other. A star
type topology is the most commonly used as it makes use of a central control unit (CCU)
interacting with all the available remote control units (RCUs) and taking over
decision making responsibilities. The role of the RCUs is to send data fetched from the sensors
back to the CCU. After it has assessed the input from the sensors and made any necessary
decisions, the CCU sends the command back to the RCU to take a specific action.
Another topology to be considered is a mesh topology, which has no CCU and makes use
of a constellation of control units of roughly equal intelligence and capability connected
with each other. Each unit sends information on the network which is shared by all the
units. Each Unit is independent and makes its own decisions based on the shared information.
1. Bluetooth
Bluetooth is based on the IEEE 802.15.1 standard, which describes a wireless personal
area network. It operates in the 2.4 2.4835 GHz unlicensed ISM band and provides a data rate of
up to 21 kbps. Bluetooth provides a coverage distance of up to 100 meters. It is typically used for
portable personal devices.
WiFi is the most popular wireless technology used in a CPN. It is based on IEEE 802.11
standards: 802.11b-11 Mbps, 802.11g-54 Mbps, 802.11a-54 Mbps, and 802.11n-300 Mbps. It
can operate in frequency bands of 2.4 GHz, 3.5 GHz, and 5 GHz unlicensed ISM (Industry,
Scientific, and Medical).
It provides a coverage range of up to 100 meters. It also provides reliable, secure, and high-speed
communications. However, it supports short-range communications. The cost and power
consumption of WLAN products are also higher than other short-range wireless technologies
such as ZigBee and Z-Wave.
3. EnOcean
4. 6LowPAN
LoWPAN is known as IPv over Low power Wireless Personal Area Networks. It is a
networking technology that allows IPv packets to be carried efficiently within small link-layer
frames, such as those defined by IEEE 802.15.4. While LoWPAN was originally conceived to
support IEEE 802.15.4 low-power wireless networks in the 2.4-GHz band, it is now being adapted
and used over various other networking media, including Sub-1 GHz low-power RF.
LoWPAN uses the strong AES-128 link layer security defined in IEEE 802.15.4. Its
characteristics make the technology ideal for markets such as home automation with sensors and
actuators, street light monitoring and control, residential lighting, smart metering, and generic IoT
applications with Internet-connected devices. Today both 2.4 GHz and Sub-1 GHz bands can
be used, building on the IEEE 802.15.4 advantages, including support for a large mesh network
topology, robust communication, and very-low power consumption. The 802.15.4 standard
provides 20 250kpbs data rates depending on the frequency. It is suitable for short distances from
10 to 100 meters.
5. Z-Wave
It operates in the 900MHz unlicensed radio frequency band used in Australia and
North America, while 2.4GHz is the unlicensed band used worldwide, including Australia.
Generally, 900MHz solutions provide a significantly longer range and lower power. In addition,
the freedom from WiFi interference allows for a standardized low bandwidth control medium
that can be reliable alongside common wireless devices.
6. Zigbee
It has ten channels in the 2.4GHz ISM band (Worldwide), ten channels in the
915MHz band (Australia and US), and one channel in the 808MHz band (Europe). When
comparing ZigBee data rates with those of other technologies, ZigBee may have much lower
data rates than others. In addition, ZigBee can be deployed in a mesh network, which allows
ZigBee in a mesh configuration to have high reliability and a broader coverage range.
7. Wave2M
8. RFID
DATA SECURITY
Integrating security features into home automation brings a host of benefits for homeowners. By
seamlessly incorporating smart cameras, motion sensors, and smart locks into the system, a
comprehensive security ecosystem is created. Remote monitoring and control allow homeowners
to receive real-time alerts and updates on security events, enhancing peace of mind even when
they are away from home.
The integration also offers convenience and energy efficiency. Homeowners can program
routines, such as automatic arming and disarming of the security system, making it hassle-free to
manage security measures. Smart devices can optimize energy usage by triggering lights only
when needed, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Addressing privacy and data security concerns is crucial when integrating security features with
home automation. Protecting sensitive data, such as video footage and user habits, requires
implementing strong passwords and regular firmware updates. Two-factor authentication adds an
extra layer of protection while securing the home Wi-Fi network with robust encryption to
prevent unauthorized access.
Controlling data sharing through privacy settings on smart devices is essential for minimizing
risks, and choosing reputable vendors ensures reliable and secure technologies. By taking these
proactive privacy measures, homeowners can confidently embrace the benefits of a connected
home while safeguarding their personal data and maintaining a secure smart home environment.
Smart home security devices are an integral part of a modern smart home setup, designed to
enhance the safety and security of homeowners. These devices encompass a range of
technologies, including smart cameras, smart locks, and various types of sensors.
Smart cameras are equipped with advanced features such as high-definition video recording,
motion detection, and night vision capabilities. They can be placed indoors or outdoors to
monitor specific areas around the house. With real-time video streaming and remote access
through mobile apps, homeowners can keep an eye on their property from anywhere.
The true power of smart home security lies in the seamless integration of these devices into a
comprehensive security ecosystem. When integrated, these devices work together, sharing
information and triggering actions based on predefined rules and scenarios. This
interconnectedness enhances the overall security of the home and enables a proactive response to
potential threats.
One of the significant advantages of smart security setups is their customization and flexibility.
Homeowners have the freedom to tailor the system the security system to disarm automatically
when they arrive home, allowing seamless entry without needing to manually deactivate the
system.
Seamless integration of security devices with other home automation features is a key aspect of
creating a cohesive and interconnected smart home ecosystem. In a well-integrated
system, security devices like smart cameras, smart locks, and sensors can work harmoniously
with other smart devices such as lighting, thermostats, and entertainment systems
Enhancing Smart Home Security With Voice Assistants
Voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, are increasingly
becoming an essential part of smart home security. By incorporating voice control into the
security setup, homeowners can conveniently manage various security devices using simple
voice commands.
For example, a homeowner can use voice commands to lock the doors, arm the security system,
or check the status of the cameras. This hands-free approach enhances accessibility and allows
for quick response times in case of security events.
When the homeowner’s smartphone crosses the geofence boundary, the security
system can automatically arm or disarm itself. For instance, when leaving the geofenced area, the
system can activate “away” mode, arming all security devices. Conversely, upon returning home,
the system can disarm and deactivate the security measures, ensuring a smooth and convenient
entry.
significant amount of research has been conducted in order to make home appliances
more efficient in terms of energy usage. Various techniques have been designed and
implemented in order to control the power demand and supply. This paper reviews different
research works on a wide range of energy management techniques for smart homes aimed at
reducing energy consumption and minimizing energy wastage.
. The sole purpose of these smart devices is to provide its residents with a secure,
active and quality environment leading to a positive impact on their lives. The issues such as
environmental disruptions, insecurity, communication difficulties, health dilemmas and
entertainment discrepancies are reduced to a minimum by the use of smart devices.
Smart home devices are capable of monitoring internal activities of the home and use
technology that enables the devices, for example, to turn on and turn off automatically. The first
use of smart home technology was in order to control the internal environmental issues like
lighting and heating problems. Later on, this technology was designed and integrated further to
operate smart devices on an automated basis.
counts captured by the sensors deployed at different places inside the building. Only
appliances that were required at a certain time were to be switched ON and all other idle
appliances to be OFF. Thus the decreased loss of energy contributed towards more energy to be
used in other sectors wherever it is required. The simple setup comprising of a PC and some
software and a simple hardware resulted in reducing energy wastage.
An energy management system has been developed in that works by observing the activities of
individuals using thermal and visual aid. In this system, the sensors have been used to monitor
the activities by sensing the heat level of the people. By using this system, the energy wastage
has been reported to be reduced significantly.
What is the Significance of Smart Energy Meter Applications?
Smart energy meters are an indispensable part of the development of a strong
smart grid. Promoting the application of smart energy meters is of great significance in terms of
product quality improvement, electricity collection construction, and smart grid construction.
2. The smart energy meter application promotes the improvement of product quality
Strictly standardize the technical performance indicators, test methods and
acceptance standards of electric energy meters, prompting manufacturers to continuously
improve product performance and quality. In addition, after standardizing and unifying basic
work such as smart energy meter types, functions, and communication protocols, manufacturers
can save a lot of mold opening and operation and maintenance costs, and concentrate on research
and development of measurement performance technology and reliability to further improve
product quality.
3. The smart energy meter application meets the needs of smart grid construction
Smart energy meters are an important part of the power consumption link of smart
grids. Smart energy meters meet the needs of smart grid construction in terms of bidirectional
metering, intelligent monitoring, automatic control, and information storage.
4. The smart energy meter application meets the needs of electricity consumption
information collection
7. The smart energy meter application improves the level of high-quality service
Users can directly obtain their own electricity consumption information from the
smart energy meter, which greatly improves the user's right to know the electricity consumption
information, and provides convenience for users to change the electricity consumption mode and
implement effective electricity consumption control.
8. The smart energy meter application reduces operation and maintenance costs
Standardizing the types of smart electric energy meters has changed the situation
of various types of electric energy meters, which is convenient to reduce the number of standby
meters, facilitate storage, transportation and maintenance, and greatly reduce operation and
maintenance costs.
9. The smart energy meter application meets the needs of electricity management
The smart energy meter is an important part of the smart grid. The electricity
consumption information such as the electricity, current, voltage, and power factor of the energy
meter is an important data source of the smart grid. The time synchronization function of the
smart energy meter ensures the synchronicity of electricity consumption information collection,
and provides more accurate data support for electricity consumption management and auxiliary
decision-making.
This architecture includes two main sections, one is consumer section and other is
energy service provider section. Both sections have very key role for data transmission and bi-
directional communication between consumer section which have smart meter and service
provider section which contain data base unit.
CONSUMER SECTION
As from block diagram it is shown that consumer section contain smart meter which contains
different modules working together for energy consumption calculation and also automatically
transfer calculated information to theservice provider section and also to the consumer
Here Connectivity server is used for the wireless connectivity between consumer
section, service provider section and also with the consumer mobile phone.While requesting
server process the requests from consumer and from service provider. The request for instance,
billing and power unit allocation are received and process by it.
Different type of warning and informative alerts such as; theft detection,
additional power allocation and power status are handled by this server. General information like
power limit, energy consumption, power reallocation, voltage and current are maintain by
information server.
Load modeling and forecasting to predict aggregate energy consumption for commercial
buildings
View description
The ongoing Smart Grid (SG) initiative proposes several modifications to the
existing power grid through several new applications. One of these applications is the Advanced
Metering Infrastructure (AMI). AMI provides two-way communication between utility
companies and the consumers' smart appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, thermostats, etc.
through the deployment of smart meters and smart data collection techniques.
Smart meters mainly measure the real-time electrical energy consumption of the
consumers in addition to power quality and instantaneous electric measurements such as voltage
and current at their connection points and periodically report them to the utilities.
Smart meters are designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Therefore,
government agencies require that utilities install smart meters for their customers. These efforts
have resulted in more than a hundred million smart meters being installed around the world.
Smart meters communicate their measurements to the utilities over wireless links
and these fine-grained power consumption data and since most of the smart meters do not
encrypt the data before transmission, this data can easily be obtained. The obtained fine-grained
consumption data can be analyzed and used to make some inferences about household activities,
which could lead to a privacy breach.
SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS
Security. The ways of attacking smart devices can be divided into two: physical
attack (i.e., intrusion via tampering with hardware components of the device) and exploiting
vulnerabilities in the communication protocols
Smart meters are considered tamper-proof thanks to various protection
mechanisms, so physical security of smart meters is typically strong. In an event that the meter
case is opened in an unauthorized way and a physical change is made, the meter logs a tamper
event and forwards it to the AMI center. However, it is still possible to attack in a semi-physical
fashion in which some specific hardware is used while performing the attack.
Some of the smart meter vendors do not implement encrypted memory. Two
supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and industrial control system (ICS) security
specialists took advantage of that and developed a toolkit that lets anyone access the memory of
a smart meter and intercept the credentials used to administer it. Obviously, the best solution to
overcome this problem is to install secure memory.
The security problems stem from outdated protocols, poor implementations, and
weak design principles. Moreover, some of the smart meter vendors use the same hardcoded
credentials in their meters. Therefore, utilities should force smart meter vendors not to embed the
same credentials on the devices..
Wireless protocols that some meters use may also have some vulnerabilities that are
exploited by attackers. Smart meter vendors tend to work with 3G and 4G networks which
provide a wide bandwidth allowing additional consumer services, but most of today’s smart
metering infrastructure is part of the global system for mobile communications (GSM) network,
Smart meters use ZigBee or Z-Wave to communicate with smart home appliances.
These standards have been poorly implemented in smart meters, so their communication is often
insecure and unencrypted because the meter vendors skip including security checks to minimize
the code as the meters have limited CPU power and memory resources. Utilities should compel
the vendors to implement proper encryption algorithms defined for the standards in use.
There are some basic security considerations that should be taken into account when
designing secure smart meters to limit the effect of common network attacks such as Denial-of-
Service and Man-in-the-Middle attacks:
Privacy. Eavesdroppers can monitor power usage and make inferences about what you are
doing at home or whether you are at home or not, even when your home is vacant for long
periods of time..
It has been demonstrated that someone with network sniffing skills and
equipment can perform a “man in the middle” attack to eavesdrop the data related to
power consumption in a house. The collected data can be sold to advertisers without the
consent of the consumers.
Traditional encryption methods can protect consumer privacy against
eavesdroppers, but utilities still can access actual meter readings. To prevent utilities or
trusted third parties from accessing fine-grained consumption values, data obfuscation,
homomorphic encryption, and secure multiparty computation schemes can be
implemented in smart meters..
To summarize, utility companies need to take several security and privacy
considerations into account to realize a secure and privacy-preserving smart grid,
including: protecting the integrity of the device(s) installed at the consumer side, proofing
and protecting the integrity of data sent between the consumer premises and the utility,
authenticating the identities of the parties in communication, concealing the data in
transit between the consumer devices and the utility, ensuring authorized access to the
consumer data stored at the utility side.
All of these considerations can be handled using digital certificates. Public
Key Infrastructure creates, manages, distributes, uses, stores, and revokes digital
certificates. This enables secure communication between parties and provides security
through authenticity, integrity, confidentiality, and non-repudiation
1. Introduction
In modern technology wireless communication provides a lot of possibilities to be
able to share its information to each other at anytime and anywhere.
Intelligent mobile communication network and WLAN, WiFi are applied to various
sectors such as education; health care service and industry in order to provide people a
convenient way to communicate with each other.
The standard and technique development of ubiquitous network has rapidly put itself
into the world market. Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) is becoming a special application
of such technique.
WBAN differs with other wireless sensor networks (WSN) with some significant
points. First difference between a WBAN and WSN is mobility. In WBAN user can move with
sensor nodes with same mobility pattern whereas WSN is generally used to be stationary. Energy
consumption is much less in WBAN than other WSNs arrangement. In addition WBAN sensor
devices are found cheaper than WSNs.
2. WBAN Architecture
WBAN is designed with special purpose sensor which can autonomously connect with
various sensors and appliances, located inside and outside of a human body.
. Here we have classified the network architecture into four sections. The first section is
the WBAN part which consists of several numbers of sensor nodes. These nodes are cheap and
low-power nodes with inertial and physiological sensors, strategically placed on the human body.
All the sensors can be used for continuous monitoring of movement, vital parameters like heart
rate, ECG, Blood pressure etc. and the surrounding environment.
There are vast monitoring systems are being used already based on wired connections.
Any wired connection in a monitoring system can be problematic and awkward worn by a person
and could restrict his mobility. So, WBAN can be a very effective solution in this area especially
in a healthcare system where a patient needs to be monitored continuously and requires mobility.
The next section is the coordination node where the entire sensor nodes will directly
connected with a coordination node known as Central Control Unit (CCU). CCU takes the
responsibility to collect information from the sensor nodes and to deliver to the next section. For
monitoring human body activities
there is no such wireless technology is fixed for targeting WBAN. Most
popular wireless technologies used for medical monitoring system are WLAN, WiFi, GSM, 3G,
4G,WPAN (Bluetooth, ZigBee) etc.
Except Cellular network standard all of these technologies are commonly
available for short distance communication. WMTS (Wireless Medical Telemetry Service) and
Ultra-Wide Band are another technology that could be used for body monitoring system as they
operate in low transmission power.
The third section is the WBAN communication which will act as a gateway
to transfer the information to the destination. A mobile node can be a gateway to a remote station
to send Mobile Message to a cellular network using GSM/3G/4G.
A router or a PC can be a remote node to communicate via email or other
service using Ethernet The last section will be a control center consists of end node devices such
as Mobile phone for message, PC for monitoring and email and server for storing the information
in the database.
3. WBAN Requirements and Workflow
wearability, reliability, security, and interoperability
Wearibility:
To achieve non-invasive and unobtrusive continuous monitoring Wearibility is a
very important issue. These sensors must be lightweight and small. Size and weight of sensors
are mainly determined by the size and weight of batteries . But, a battery’s capacity is directly
proportional to its size.
Reliability:
Reliable communication in WBANs is of paramount importance for any WBAN
application. So the designer should target a reliable communication technique which will ensure
uninterrupted communication and optimal throughput. A careful trade-off between
communication and computation is very crucial for a reliable system design.
Security:
Another important issue is the security of the network. All the wireless medical
sensors must meet the requirements of privacy and should ensure data integrity and
authentication.
Interoperability:
Wireless medical sensors should allow users to easily build a robust WBAN. Standards
governing that interaction of wireless medical sensors will help vendor competition and
eventually lead to more accessible systems .
Monitoring Sensors
Wireless body area network is a system which can continuously monitor a person’s
activities. Based on the operating environments the monitoring sensors can be classified into two
types.
o Wearable sensor devices worked on the human body surface.
o Implantable devices operated inside human body
Wearable sensor devices allow the individual to follow closely the changes in her
or his functions and in the surrounding environment and provide feedback for maintaining
optimal and instant status.
For example ECG, EEG, Blood pressure sensor can be used to monitor a critical
patient, GPS sensor can be used to locate an area and different types of sensor that can be used to
measure the distance, temperature, movement etc.
To measure heath parameters, implantable sensors are planted in close contact with
the skin, and sometimes even inside the human body. Implantable biosensors are an important
class of biosensors based on their ability to continuously measure metabolite levels, without the
need for person interference and regardless of the person’s physiological state (sleep, rest, etc.) .
the implantable biosensors have great impact to diabetes and trauma care patients, as well as
soldiers in action (military).
In a WBAN traffic can be divided into three categories such as [6] :
v Normal traffic
v Emergency traffic
v On-demand traffic
Normal traffic is the data traffic which is used to monitor the normal condition
of a person without any criticality and on demand events. Emergency traffic is initiated by nodes
when they exceed a predefined threshold or in any emergency situation. Such type of traffic is
totally unpredictable.
On-demand traffic is initiated by the authorized personnel like doctor or
consultant to acquire certain information for diagnostic purpose
WBAN Standards and Technologies
As WBAN is a short range wireless networks so different types of wireless short
range technologies can be involved in different stages. In this segment we will describe most
common technologies such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, WiFi, IEEE 802.15.6 etc. that can be used to
deploy WBAN.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is an IEEE 802.15.1 standard commonly known as WPAN (Wireless
Personal Area Network). Bluetooth technology [7] was designed as a short range wireless
communication standard, anticipated to form a network with security and low power
consumption. A typical Bluetooth network forms a Piconet where a Bluetooth device works as a
master and another seven Bluetooth devices
Bluetooth devices operate in the 2.4 GHz ISM band (Industrial, Scientific and
Medical band), utilizing frequency hopping among 79 1 MHz channels at a nominal rate of 1600
hops/sec to avoid interference.
It is classified with three classes of devices with coverage ranging from 1 to 100
m and different transmission powers ranging from 1 mW to 100 mW with 3 Mbps data rate .A
very key feature of Bluetooth is that all the Bluetooth devices can communication with each
other in NLOS condition. Bluetooth is suitable for short distance data transmission applications
such as between servers of WBANs or between a WBAN and a personal computer.
ZigBee
ZigBee is an IEEE 802.15.4 standardized solutions for wireless
telecommunications designed for sensors and controls, and suitable for use in harsh or isolated
conditions. One of the biggest advantages of ZigBee network is its low power
consumption. shows a typical ZigBee network topology which consist of three kinds of devices
or nodes such as coordinator, router and end device.
One coordinator exists in every ZigBee network. It starts the network and handles
management functions as well as data routing functions. End devices are devices that are battery-
powered due to their low-power consumption. They are in standby mode most of the time and
become active to collect and transmit data.
ZigBee is aimed at RF applications that require low data rate, long battery
lifespan and secure networking. Through the standby mode, ZigBee enabled devices can be
operational for several years . ZigBee-based wireless devices operate in three different
frequency bands such as 868 MHz, 915 MHz, and 2.4 GHz.
WBAN Applications
As like other wireless networks WBAN is also capable of transmitting data, voice,
video, picture etc. through radio communication path
Medical Applications
WBAN has conquered the medical area with a wide range of possibility. WBAN
technology is improving the efficiency of doctor-patient activities such as remote patient
monitoring, timely health status, notification, emergency calling etc. anytime at anywhere.
Remote Healthcare Monitoring
WBAN can offer automatic medical service through remote monitoring of a
patient’s vital organs . Sensors are placed on the body of patient that are capable of sending
body organ status such as body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, ECG signal for
monitoring heart activity, movement sensor to monitor patient movement .
These sensors can be of two types such as on-body and in-body implants. On-body
implants are wearable sensors placed on the body . The in-body sensors are implanted in the
body organ to measure vital parameters from the sensors. All the information can be monitored
and stored from the control unit or remotely.
Assisted Living
WBAN has another exciting application in medical and healthcare service known as
assisted living. Wearable medical sensors can be used at home to measure physiological data
from patient’s body and transmit/store them into particular medical center server/control unit in a
regular interval.
It helps the patient to stay at home and get continuous support instead of staying at
hospital. In case of any emergency sensors implanted on the body of patient at home can raise
alarm of urgent notification to the nearby medical center.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is another fascinating application field of WBAN. It provides health
care services over a distance with the help of information and communication technology.
WBAN technology can be integrated in the sector of telemedicine like online video
consultation with doctors, transmission of medical reports and images, remote medical diagnosis
etc.
Non-Medical Applications
Sports
WBAN enable devices can be wearable. It is very effective to monitor the
physiological activities of the wearer like heart rate, temperature, respiration rate, blood pressure,
activity, and posture of any athlete in sports. Navigation, timer, distance can be also measured by
using WBAN sensors.
Military
The opportunities for using WBANs in military are numerous. In a battlefield WBANs
can be used to communicate between soldiers and send their activities like attacking, running,
retreating, and digging to the base commander.
WBAN sensors are also helpful to monitor health condition, location, and temperature
and hydration level of soldiers in the battlefield. Those sensors like camera, GPS, monitoring
sensors, RF can be implanted with the military uniform. So in any military operation WBAN can
provide more accuracy, survivability and connectivity .
Life Style and Entertainment
WBAN can also play a vital role in our daily life. It enables some basic services like
navigation support while walking, driving, exploring a new city etc. . Infant monitoring,
wireless wearable music system, making video call using big screen TV, playback of audio and
videos from portable devices to TV or Audio system are some examples of WBAN application .
Wireless Body Area Network
4. WBAN communication –
Receives information from CCU and acts as gateway to transfer information to the
destination. For ex. mobile node is a gateway to remote station to send message to
cellular network using GSM/3G/4G.
5. Control center –
It is responsible for storing the information of user which can be used in the future or
for monitoring purpose. It consists of end node devices like mobile phones(for
messaging), computer systems (for monitoring), and server(for storing information in
database)
Smartwatches
Smart health watches have evolved over the years to combine their smartphone-like
capability of making calls and sending messages with fitness tracker functionality, such as
monitoring activity, stress levels, sleep, and heart rhythms. Nowadays, smartwatches can detect
troubling illness symptoms, alert the user about abnormalities, and directly forward the data to
healthcare professionals. The Apple Watch is a widely used device in this category that can even
provide electrocardiogram (ECG) readings.
ECG Monitors
While monitoring heart activity is one of the functions of smartwatches and activity
trackers, having specialized medical devices for cardiovascular patients in the healthcare system
is essential. Besides accurately measuring electrocardiograms, modern wearable ECG monitors
can detect arrhythmias and share the readings with physicians or cardiologists for analysis.
Pregnancy Monitors
Wearable health monitors have found essential applications in preserving maternal
health, as well as that of newborns. Healthcare professionals can detect problems in pregnancy,
childbirth, and later stages without delay using these devices. Providing a continuous recording
of the fetus’ heartbeat and movements, a pregnancy monitor can help prevent stillbirths and
lesser complications. Another device — a newborn monitor — can be mounted to a child's foot
or ankle to record and share breathing and movement data.
The quality of life for patients will improve with the help of sophisticated glasses,
head-mounted displays, and contact lenses capable of expanding images, helping to reduce color
contrast and sensitivity in light as well as delivering medicine.
Smart Bandages support the healing of chronic patients' wounds. Utilizing wound care
technology, they can detect infections and deliver medication.
Hydration and Sweat Sensors particularly benefit manual laborers, athletes, and patients
at risk of dehydration. Attached to the skin, they track and share data on hydration levels.
Glucose Monitoring Systems help people better measure their blood sugar, reducing the
need for frequent finger pricks compared to standard glucose meters.
Body Temperature Monitors provide temperature data around the clock for various uses,
from insights into athlete performance to diagnosing COVID-19.
Smart Jewelry, such as the Evie ring mentioned at the beginning of this post, is one of the
latest health-focused wearable devices designed to monitor numerous wellness metrics
seamlessly.
Wearable Exoskeletons are a promising medical technology designed to help individuals
with limb loss and those recovering from injuries.
Gathers statistical and electronic data from physiological and surrounding environments
Records physiological data and transmits it to a controller unit
Processes information to provide a near-accurate view of a person’s physiological,
behavioural, health, or emotional stateORSENSORS F
SENSORS FOR WIRELESS BODY AREA NETWORK
What is robotics?
Robotics is a branch of computer science and engineering that deals with designing,
constructing, functioning, and use of robots. The objective of robotics is to create machines that
assist humans. Robotics engineering incorporates several engineering fields such as mechanical,
electrical, computer, control, software, and bioengineering.
Robots
Robots are machines that carry out a series of complex tasks automatically. Robots can be
controlled by installing a control device within the robot or attaching it externally. Furthermore,
they can be fully automatic or semi-automatic.
Robots can have any structure and are used for several purposes. However, most robots
are programmed to resemble humans. Robots are also programmed to replicate human behaviors
such as walking, lifting, and other human activities.
Cobots
A cobot (also known as a collaborative robot) is used for direct human-robot interaction.
Such robots are used in industries to boost production levels by working together with humans.
These robots are much smaller, flexible, and easier to program than industrial robots.
Industrial robots
Industrial robots are programmable machines used for manufacturing. They are
programmed to automatically perform specific actions such as welding, painting, assembling-
disassembling, lifting printed circuit boards, packaging, and testing. Generally, industrial robots
consist of a robot arm, gripper, sensors, and a control unit.
Service robots
A service robot is a robot that provides services to humans. There are different types of service
robots, such as:
Domestic robots: Such robots are used for household or domestic tasks such as window
cleaning, vacuum cleaning, lawn mowing, and many more.
Security robots: Security robots are tasked to take care of the house when the residents
are not at home. They are typically controlled using a mobile app through the internet.
Agriculture robots: Such robots help farmers in seeding, harvesting, and other
agricultural tasks.
Medical robots: Nowadays, surgeons use robots in operation theaters to perform
minimally invasive tasks. The use of robots in surgeries reduces the chances
of human errors.
Humanoid robots
Humanoid robots are robots designed to look and function as human beings.
Humanoid robots move in an upright position using two legs. Such robots need to learn artificial
intelligence (AI) through participation in social life to behave exactly like human beings.
Types of Robotics
1. Industrial robotics: Industrial robots are used in manufacturing, assembly, and other
industrial processes. They are typically large, highly precise machines that are programmed to
perform specific tasks such as welding, painting, and packaging. They are used to improve
efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the quality of products.
2. Service robotics: Service robots are used in domestic and personal settings, such as
vacuuming robots and personal assistants. They are designed to assist people with everyday
tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, and providing information. They are also used in healthcare
and elderly care facilities to assist with tasks such as lifting and moving patients.
3. Medical robotics: Medical robots are used in surgeries and other medical procedures. They
are designed to assist surgeons in performing complex procedures with increased precision
and accuracy. They are also used in rehabilitation, physical therapy, and other medical
applications.
4. Military robotics: Military robots are used in military operations, such as bomb disposal and
surveillance. They are designed to perform tasks that are too dangerous for humans, such as
defusing bombs and entering buildings. They are also used for reconnaissance, surveillance,
and target acquisition.
5. Space robotics: Space robots are used in space exploration and satellite maintenance. They
are designed to operate in the harsh conditions of space and are used to repair and maintain
satellites, explore other planets, and perform other tasks.
6. Educational robotics: Educational robots are used to teach programming and engineering
principles to students. They are designed to be simple and easy to use and are used in schools
and universities to introduce students to the concepts of robotics and programming.
7. Agricultural robotics: Agricultural robots are used to automate tasks in agriculture. They are
used for tasks such as planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops. They can also be used for
tasks such as soil analysis, crop spraying, and precision farming.
8. Search and Rescue Robotics: Search and Rescue robots are used in natural disasters for
search and rescue operations. They are designed to operate in extreme conditions and are used
to locate and rescue victims of natural disasters. They also can be used for surveying and
mapping the affected area and providing real-time information to the rescue team.
9. Underwater Robotics: Underwater robots are used for tasks such as underwater exploration,
oil rig maintenance, and environmental monitoring. They are designed to operate in the harsh
conditions of the ocean and are used to explore shipwrecks, study marine life, and perform
other tasks.
10. Autonomous vehicles: Autonomous vehicles are vehicles that are capable of operating
without human input. They include self-driving cars, drones, and other types of vehicles.
They are designed to improve safety, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in transportation.
They are also used in various fields like agriculture, logistics, mining, etc.
Robotics Applications
Robotics has a wide range of applications across different industries and sectors. Some of the most
notab applications of robotics include:
COMPONENTS OF ROBOT
A robot as a whole consists of the following elements which are integrated together to form a
whole.
Manipulator
End effector
Actuators
Sensors
Controller
Processor
Software
Manipulator
The manipulator is the main body of the robot which consists of the links, the joints, and
other structural elements of the robot.
Simply a manipulator is a structure where all other important parts are fixed. Without
any other elements manipulator alone is not considered as a robot.
End Effector
This part is connected to the last joint (Hand) of a manipulator that generally handle
objects, lift parts, makes connections to other machines, or performs the required tasks.
Generally, the hand of a robot has provisions for connecting speciality end effectors
specially designed for a purpose. The end effector is not to be same for all applications, depends
on the need designs of end effectors may get vary.
A welding torch, paint spray gun, glue laying device, parts handlers are some of the end effectors
used in robots.
Actuators
Actuators are known as the muscles of the manipulators. Robot joints, and links
aremoved by the actuators only through the signals received from the controllers.
Servomotors, Stepper motors, Pneumatic actuators, and Hydraulic actuators are some common
types of actuators used in robots.
Sensors
Sensors are used to collect information about the internal state of the robot or to communicate
with outside environment.
The robot controller needs to know the location of joints or needs to move the actuators depends
on the input signal, mainly the input signals were given by the sensors.
These sensors are integrated with robots every part where the actuations need to be done depends
on the signal, feedback or process. Every action for outside environment is by the signal of the
sensors only. It may be touch, tactile, vision and so on.
Controller
Controller is like human cerebellum; it does not have the power of brain but it controls all the
motions. Through controller only all the motions of the robot were processed.
This controller gets the necessary inputs from all sensory items do the motions of the
coordination, actuator or joints links. Without controller, we cannot do the exact robot
operations.
For example, we want to move a robot arm for picking and placing an object from one place to
other in that we need to change the motion of the arm from 90⁰ to 45⁰, controller sends the signal
to actuator for rotation of 45⁰ after reaching the point it picks the object as the sensor sends the
feedback signal to the controller so again it will move to home position of 90⁰. Like this
controller makes every action in the robots.
Processor
Processor is considered as the brain of robots. It calculates all the motion, it calculates how much
speed was needed for moving to the destination point, checks the coordination points for the
function.
The processor is generally a computer which is specially made for the desired robots. It requires
operating system, monitor and other peripheral for controlling the operation.
In some systems both controller and processor were integrated as one but in some systems, they
will be separated. Depends on the user requirement the processor is chosen.
Simple tasks such as lifting objects or moving them do not require a lot of thought processes.
Therefore, using human workers on these tasks can be wasteful, as the workforce can be used for
other tasks that require higher mental abilities.
These repetitive tasks are handled by pick and place robots. These robots are often equipped with
sensors and vision systems to lift objects from moving conveyor belt.
A pick and place robot has several dedicated parts, such as:
Robot Arm tool: A robotic arm, also known as a manipulator, is the extension of the robot by
using cylindrical or spherical parts. links, and joints.
End Effector: The end effector is the accessory at the end of the robotic arm, that does the
required job such as gripping objects. The end effectors can be designed to perform different
functionalities based on requirements.
Actuators: Actuators create the motion in the robotic arm and end effectors. The linear actuators
are basically any type of motor, such as servo motor, stepper motor, or hydraulic cylinder.
Sensors: You can think of sensors as the eyes of the robots. The sensors do the tasks like
identifying the position of the object.
Controllers: Controllers synchronize and control the movement of different actuators of a robot,
thereby being the brain behind the smooth robotic operation.
here are many different types of pick and place robots, such as:
Cartesian Robots:
Cartesian robots move items in multiple planes, using X, Y, and Z coordinates (known as
cartesian coordinates).
Robotic Arms:
Robotic arms are the simplest and most common type of pick and place robots. As described
earlier, they are used as 5-axis and 6-axis robotic arm. 6-axis robotic arm works similar to
cartesian robots but has lower positioning accuracy compared to delta robots.
Delta Robots:
Delta robots can pick items and place them in predefined assembly patterns or groups. These
robots can be equipped with sensors or vision systems to select items based on different colors or
sizes.
Assembly Applications:
In assembly processes, pick and place robots can gather multiple parts from multiple locations,
and assemble them at one place. Complex work in electronic environments is done using these
types of pick and place robots.
Packaging Applications:
As a packaging utility, pick and place robot grab the food items and place them in a packaging
container. To load the items into a packaging container, they can even be picked from a conveyor
belt.
Part Sorting:
Part sorting robots can sort different objects based on their shape or the information provided on
the object itself. These can be used to segregate parcels or for similar applications.
Medical Applications:
Pick and place robots are also finding their applications in the medical sector. They not only help
in sorting the medical inventory but can even assist in complex surgeries.
The inception of pick and place robots in the mid-20th century marked a milestone in the
evolution of automation. Today, designed to alleviate the burden of repetitive tasks, these
robots have found their niche across an array of industries.
From manufacturing lines to logistics hubs and electronics assembly, pick and place
robots have become indispensable, catalyzing efficiency and precision. Their popularity is
also a testament to the growing need for automation in general, where human limitations
are surpassed by the tireless and precise execution of these robotic systems.
Several industries, as a result, have embraced pick and place robots for their ability to
seamlessly integrate into existing workflows, offering a scalable solution for diverse
applications . The demand for increased productivity and reduced errors has fueled the
rapid adoption of these robots, paving the way for a new era in industrial automation. It is,
hence, more than evident that the impact of pick and place robots extends beyond the
confines of a single sector; it’s reshaping the landscape of work and production.
Working Components of Pick And Place Robots
At the heart of every pick and place robot lies a sophisticated amalgamation of
components that collaboratively enable seamless object manipulation. These include:
1. Robotic Arm
A fundamental element of these robots is the arm that serves as the mechanical extension
responsible for precise movements. The design of these arms varies, ranging from
articulated arms, mimicking human limbs, to gantry arms, ideal for linear movements in
confined spaces. This flexibility allows pick and place robots to adapt to diverse tasks
with unparalleled accuracy.
2. End-Effector
Complementing the robotic arm, the end-effector serves as the hand of the system,
playing a crucial role in grasping and releasing objects. The design of end-effectors varies
based on the specific requirements of the task at hand. Grippers, suction cups, or magnetic
attachments are common variations, each tailored to handle objects of different shapes,
sizes, and materials. This adaptability ensures the versatility of pick and place robots
across various industries.
3. Sensors
In tandem with the above mechanical components, sensors form the neural network of
these robots. Vision systems, proximity sensors, and other advanced sensors endow pick
and place robots with a keen awareness of their surroundings. These sensors play a pivotal
role in detecting objects, assessing distances, and ensuring precise movements, enhancing
the overall efficiency and safety of the robotic system.
Robotic Arms in Pick And Place Robots
The robotic arm, as discussed above, serves as the quintessential limb of a pick and place
robot, dictating the range and precision of its movements. The two common types of
robotic arms today are articulated robotic arms and gantry arms, each with varying
functions and capabilities.
Articulated robotic arms, characterized by multiple joints mirroring the human anatomy,
offer unparalleled flexibility. This flexibility proves invaluable in navigating complex
environments and manipulating objects with varying orientations.
Gantry arms, on the other hand, are designed for linear movements along predefined paths.
These arms find their niche in situations where precision along a specific trajectory is
paramount. Their controlled, repetitive motions make them ideal for tasks requiring
consistency, such as assembly line operations.
Programming lies at the core of a robotic arm’s functionality. Through meticulous coding,
these arms are directed to perform specific tasks with utmost precision. Whether it’s
picking and placing components in manufacturing or organizing items in a warehouse, the
adaptability of robotic arms is harnessed through precise programming, making them
indispensable in the realm of automation.
The end-effector, often referred to as the “robotic hand,” is a pivotal component that
defines the interaction between the pick and place robot and the objects it handles. These
versatile attachments, ranging from grippers to suction cups , are carefully chosen based
on the nature of the task at hand. Grippers, equipped with adjustable jaws or fingers, excel
in securely holding objects of various shapes, providing a robust grip during lifting and
placing operations.
The selection of the appropriate end-effector is a strategic decision, driven by factors such
as the weight, size, and fragility of the objects to be manipulated. This nuanced approach
underscores the sophistication of pick and place robots, as they seamlessly transition
between different end-effectors to accommodate the specific demands of each task.
Sensors in Pick And Place Robots
Sensors play a pivotal role in elevating pick and place robots from mere machines to
intelligent entities capable of perceiving and responding to their environment. Vision
systems, equipped with cameras and image recognition algorithms, enable robots to “see”
and identify objects with precision. This visual feedback is crucial for tasks that require
object detection, sorting, or quality control.
Proximity sensors add another layer of awareness, allowing pick and place robots to gauge
distances accurately. These sensors contribute to the robot’s ability to approach objects
with the right level of proximity, facilitating a smooth and controlled pick and place
operation. Additionally, force sensors provide feedback on the pressure exerted during
gripping, preventing damage to delicate objects.
Regularly calibrate and fine-tune the sensors to ensure accurate and reliable readings,
adapting the sensors to specific tasks and environmental conditions. This is so the synergy
between these sensors creates a real-time feedback loop, empowering pick and place
robots to adapt dynamically to changes in their environment. This heightened awareness
not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures the safety of both the robotic
system and its human counterparts in shared workspaces.
A pick-and-place robot is a type of industrial robot that is used for handling and placing products
on a production line. They are typically used in high-volume manufacturing settings, where they
can quickly and accurately place products onto conveyor belts or other production equipment.
Picking robots are designed to automate the tasks of handling and placing products on a
production line. This can include tasks such as picking up products from a conveyor belt and
placing them onto another conveyor belt or piece of production equipment.
There are many types of pick-and-place robots, each with their own set of capabilities. Some
pick-and-place robots are designed for use in specific industries, such as the food and
beverage industry, while others are more general-purpose. Pick-and-place robots can also vary in
terms of their payload capacity, or the amount of weight they can lift.
Some picking robots are also equipped with additional features, such as vision systems
or grippers. Vision systems allow the robot to identify products that need to be picked up, while
grippers enable the robot to grasp products.
In addition to their use in factories, pick-and-place robots are also increasingly being used
in logistics applications. In these settings, such robots can be used to load and unload
trucks, sort and organize packages, and load containers onto ships. What are the types of
pick-and-place robots?
Some of the most common types robots for these operations include:
Gantry robots: Gantry robots consist of a beam that spans the width of a production line.
Gantry robots are often used in high-volume manufacturing settings, where they can quickly and
accurately put items on production equipment.
Articulated robots: Articulated robot arms have a series of joints that allow the robot to move in
multiple directions. Articulated robots are often used in packaging applications, where they can
place products into boxes or bags.
SCARA robots: SCARA robots have a horizontal arm and a vertical arm. SCARA robots are
often used in assembly applications, where they can pick up and move products onto a
production line.
Delta robots: Delta robots consist of three arms that are mounted on a triangular base. Delta
robots are often used in packaging applications, where they can place products into boxes or
bags.
There are many benefits of using pick-and-place robots, including:
Manufacturing: Pick-and-place robots can quickly and accurately place products onto
conveyor belts or other production equipment.
Packaging: Picking robots can place products into boxes or bags.
Loading and unloading: Pick-and-place robots are used to load and unload trucks, sort and
organize packages, and load containers onto ships.
Assembly: Automated systems can put products onto a production line.
Inspection: Grasping robots handle and inspect products for defects or irregularities.
Testing: Robots help test products for quality or performance.
Sorting: Pick-and-place robots sort products by size, shape, or other criteria.
Dispensing: Some robots are designed to dispense liquids or powders onto products or into
containers.
Labeling: Robots apply labels to products or packaging.
Palletizing: Certain robots stack products onto pallets for storage or shipping.
Kitting: Pick-and-place robots may assemble kits of parts or products.
Wrapping: Robots can wrap products in plastic or other materials.
Gluing: Articulated robots apply glue or other adhesives to products.
Sealing: They can also seal products in packaging.
Welding: From moving and holding items to welding them together, robots are increasingly
popular in metalwork.
Cutting, folding, and shaping: Pick-and-place robots can manipulate materials such as
cardboard or plastic.
Die cutting: Like welding, robots are used to die-cut products.
Stamping and printing: Pick-and-place robots can stamp or print on products or packaging.
Pick-and-place robots are versatile machines that can be used in a variety of settings. They offer
a number of advantages, including reduced labor costs, flexibility, and improved safety. When
selecting a pick-and-place robot, it is important to consider the specific needs of your operation.
A conceptual mobile robot. Mobile robots have some major and common components and this
article gives details on each of these components.
Energy Efficiency
Actuators consume the most power in a mobile robot. Therefore, choosing energy-efficient
actuators and optimizing their operation can significantly extend the robot's operational time.
There are many methods for energy efficiency, where some are related with the actuators and
their controllers as well.
Energy efficiency is a crucial topic for mobile robots. Higher the efficieny, longer the operation
time of the robot with its limited power source.
Types of Sensors:
Although there are unlimited count of sensors in the market, most of the sensors used in mobile
robots are falling into one of the following categories:
1) Proximity Sensors
These are used to detect the presence of objects within a certain range. They are crucial for
collision avoidance and are commonly used in applications like automated vacuum cleaners and
warehouse robots.
2) Vision Sensors
Also known as cameras, these sensors provide a wealth of information and are used in
complex applications like autonomous vehicles and drones. They can be paired with machine
learning algorithms for object recognition, tracking, and more.
4) Environmental Sensors
These include temperature, humidity, and gas sensors. They are used in specialized robots that
operate in extreme conditions like underwater or in hazardous environments.
Sensor Fusion
The concept of sensor fusion involves combining data from multiple sensors to improve the
robot's perception and decision-making capabilities. For example, combining data from vision
sensors and proximity sensors can enable a robot to navigate more effectively through a cluttered
environment.
3) Hybrid Systems
These systems combine the features of both reactive and deliberative systems to create a more
versatile control unit.
Power Supply: The Lifeblood of a Mobile Robot
The power supply is a critical component that determines how long and how far a robot can
operate. It's essentially the lifeblood of the machine.
1) Batteries
The most common power source for mobile robots, batteries come in various forms like Li-
ion, NiMH, and lead-acid, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
2) Fuel Cells
These are used in long-duration applications and are common in industrial settings.
3) Tethered Systems
Some robots are connected to an external power source via a cable. While this provides a
constant power supply, it limits the robot's mobility.
Power Management
Effective power management involves monitoring the robot's energy consumption and
optimizing its operations to extend battery life. This is crucial for applications where the robot
needs to operate autonomously for extended periods.
Safety Considerations
Proper design and safety mechanisms are essential to prevent issues like short circuits,
overheating, and explosions, especially in robots that operate in sensitive or hazardous
environments.
Introduction to Drone or UAV
Any aircraft or flying machine operated without a human pilot such machines is called
an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). It can be guided autonomously or remotely by a
human operator using onboard computers and robots.
During surveillance or military operation, UAVs can be a part of an unmanned aircraft
system (UAS), Drones are separately for air and water
Drones have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are used for a variety of
purposes, including photography, videography, surveying, inspection, and even delivery.
But have you ever wondered how drones work? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the
working principle of drones
The basic components of a drone are the frame, motors, propellers, battery, flight
controller, and sensors. Let’s take a closer look at each of these components.
Frame
Battery
Flight controllers
Sensors
Motors and Propellers:
When air flows over an aerofoil and pressure, viscous and drag force act on the profiles
Force is directly proportional to the velocity of air at the inlet
The flow pattern around the cross-section of the aerofoil or propeller is shown below.
High fluid pressure at the bottom and low pressure at the top of the propeller causes an
upward force which is called a lift. This force is responsible for lifting the weight of an
aero-plane or drone.
The amount of lift force depends on the angle of inclination of the aerofoil or propeller.
Based on the principle of conservation of energy in fluid flow (Bernoulli’s principle,
the sum of all forms of energy in a fluid is constant along the streamline
When air flows over an aerofoil or wing, its velocity increases at the top portion. But the
pressure of air decreases.
In contrast, the air velocity decreases and pressure increase at the bottom side of the
blade. The next pressure difference across the aerofoil results in an upward force which is
called a lift
CFD modeling of flow over an aerofoil has been important in many vehicular and
aerospace industries
Types of drones based on the number of Propellors
A number of propellors are provided to drones. More propellors improve the stability of drones
and load-carrying capacity but such drones need more battery power to drive more motors to get
high power. A quadcopter is a more popular drone.
Bicopter (2 propellers)
Triplecopter (3 propellors)
Quadcopter (4 propellers)
Hexacopter (6 propellers)
Octacopter (8 propellers)
Working Principle of Quadcopter
A quadcopter has four propellors at four corners of the frame
For each propeller, speed and direction of rotation are independently controlled for
balance and movement of the drone
In a traditional quadrotor, all four rotors are placed at an equal distance from each other
To maintain the balance of the system, one pair of rotors rotates in a clockwise direction
and the other pair rotates in an anti-clockwise direction
To move up (hover), all rotors should run at high speed. By changing the speed of rotors,
the drone can be moved forward, backward, and side-to-side
Quadcopter Dynamics
The movement of drone are classified into four types based on the relation motion
between four propellors: 1) throttle, 2) Pitch, 3) Roll, and 4) Yaw
The details of quadcopter dynamics are explained in many references
Throttle/ Hover: up and down movement of the drone is called throttle
If all four propellors run at normal speed, then the drone will move down
If all four propellors run at a higher speed, then the drone will move up. This is called
the hovering of a drone
Pitch: movement of a drone about a lateral axis (either forward or backward) is called
pitching motion
If two rear propellors run at high speed, then the drone will move in a forwarding
direction
If two front propellors run at high speed, then the drone will move in
the backward direction
Roll: movement of a drone about the longitudinal axis is called rolling motion
If two right propellors run at high speed, then the drone will move in the left direction
If two left propellors run at high speed, then the drone will move in the right direction
Yawn: the rotation of the head of the drone about the vertical axis (either the left or right)
is called Yawning motion
If two propellors of a right diagonal run at high speed, then the drone will rotate in an
anti-clockwise direction
If two propellors of a left diagonal run at high speed, then the drone will rotate in a
clockwise direction
Forces and Moments Acting on a
Drone
Major forces acting on a Drone
When a drone moves in the air, various forces act on it. The resultant
force will decide its movement. There are major forces acting on a
drone
Weight
Due to the mass of the drone, the body mass force always acts
in the direction of gravity
Higher the weight of the drone, more power is required to lift
and move the drone
Weight of drone = mass of drone × acceleration due to
gravity
Lift:
The vertical force acting on the drone is called lift
This force is due to pressure differences across the drone (in
the vertical direction). Hence, the speed, size, and shape of
the propeller blade decide the amount of lift force
Lift is essential to lift the body against the gravity
To create this force, all four propellors run at high speed to
lift the drone
Thrust
The force acting on the drone in the direction of motion is
called thrust. However, for drone dynamics, it is normal to the
rotor plane.
During hovering, the thrust is purely vertical. If thrust is
inclined then the drone will tilt forward or backward.
This force is essential to move the drone in the desired
direction at equal speed
To get desired motion, two propellors have been given high
speed
Drag
The force acting on the drone in the opposite direction of
motion due to air resistance is called drag
This may be because of pressure difference and viscosity of
air
To reduce the drag, the aerodynamic shape of the drone is
selected
Kinematic for Quad-copter
Equation of motion
m = F1 + F2 + F3 + F4 – mg
m=0
Rise or Fall Motion (Throttle up)
Conditions for hovering (rise)
mg < F1 + F2 + F3 + F4
All moments = 0
Conditions for Fall
mg > F1 + F2 + F3 + F4
All moments = 0
Equation of motion
m = F1 + F2 + F3 + F4 – mg
m>0
Yaw Motion
Conditions for hovering
mg = F1 + F2 + F3 + F4
All moments ≠ 0
Equation of motion
mass* linear acceleration = F1 + F2 + F3 + F4 – mg
Izz *angular acceleration@ Z-axis = M1+ M2+M3+ M4
Pitch and Roll Motion
Conditions for hovering
mg < F1 + F2 + F3 + F4
All moments ≠ 0
Equation of motion
mass* linear acceleration = F1 + F2 + F3 + F4 – mg
Ixx * angular acceleration @ x-axis = (F3 – F4)×L
Rigid-body dynamics
To calculate individual speeds and forces acting on drones, the
three-dimensional rigid-body dynamics should be modeled
The first step is to identify the reference coordinates, the
direction of rotor speed and forces acting the drones
For the rigid body, we have to consider the effect of
aerodynamic, inertial, gravitational, and gyroscope
Aerodynamic Forces: rotation of the propellors in air causes
various forces such as friction and drag
Secondary aerodynamic effects: blade flapping, ground effect,
and local flow fields
Inertial counter torques: gravitational forces acting at the
center of drone affect the rotation of propellors
Gyroscopic effects: change in the orientation of drone body
and plane rotation of propellors.
Major Components of Drones
The following are major parts of drones.
1.
Frame:
It should have sufficient strength to hold the propeller momentum and additional weight for
motors and cameras
Sturdy and less aerodynamic resistance
1. Propellers:
The speed and load lifting ability of a drone depends on shape, size, and number of
propellors
The long propellors create huge thrust to carry heavy loads at a low speed (RPM) and less
sensitive to change the speed of rotation
Short propellors carry fewer loads. They change rotation speeds quickly and require a high
speed for more thrust.
2. Motor
Both motors brushless and brushed type can be used for drones
A brushed motor is less expensive and useful for small-sized drones
Brushless type motors are powerful and energy very efficient. But they need Electronic
Speed Controller (ESC) to control their speed. These brushless motors are widely used for
racing freestyle drones, traffic surveys and aerial photography drones.
3. ESC (Electronic Speed Controller)
ESC is used to connect the battery to the electric motor for the power supply
It converts the signal from the flight controller to the revolution per minted (RPM) of motor
ESC is provided to each y motor of the drone
4. Flight Controller (FC)
It is the computer processor which manages balance and telecommunication controls using
different transmitter
Sensors are located in this unit for the accelerometer, barometer, magnetometer,
gyrometer and GPS
The distance measurement can be carried out by an ultrasound sensor
5. Radio Transmitter sends the radio signal to ESC to pilot to control motor speed.
6. Radio Receiver: Received the signal from the pilot. This device is attached to the quadcopter
7. Battery: High-power capacity, Lithium Polymer (LiPo) is used for most drones. The battery can
have 3S (3 cells) or 4S (4 cells).
When the pilot or autonomous system gives the drone a command, the flight controller sends
signals to the motors to spin the propellers
The speed and direction of the motors and propellors are adjusted to achieve the desired
movement. The sensors provide data to the flight controller, which uses it to stabilize the drone
in the air and adjust its movement
Drones can be controlled manually using a remote controller or programmed to fly
autonomously. Autonomous drones use sensors and pre-programmed instructions to fly to a
specific location, perform a task like taking photos or delivering a package, and return to their
starting point.