CASE STUDIES
Case Study #1
Work with this client began as a simple proof-of-concept for multi-channel high-power LED dimming control system. In addition to the prototype electronics, the system was housed in a small metal enclosure (all designed and assembled by Savoy Engineering, LLC). Since the idea was validated, it has grown into full featured, first of its kind, equipment for chemistry labs.
Savoy Engineering, LLC is responsible for designing all the electronics and writing the software in the system. The schematics and layout were created in Eagle CAD, and are maintained in a git repository. All code is in C++ and maintained on bitbucket. The client can easily upgrade the hardware with the latest firmware as new versions are released.
The electronics include:
- 240x64 Graphical LCD screen
- User interface buttons
- ATMEGA2560 MCU
- 5 channel AC chopper circuit
- AC cut-off circuit (for safety)
- MOSFETs for powering of DC peripherals such as pumps and valves
- Isolation amplifiers monitor the current and voltage driving the LCDs
- 16 channels of 12-bit ADCs
- 4 Type-K thermocouple channels
- 2 RTD temp probe channels
- Design managed in git repository
The software includes:
- Graphical LCD control
- Multi-screen user interface
- Real Time display of critical system parameters
- Software versioned and managed in git repository
Case Study #2
This client was in need of compact prototype electronics for a new product prototype they were developing. The product is a device that allows a pet dog to push buttons that playback pre-recorded short messages. The prototype was built for both proof-of-concept and fundraising purposes.
The client had a fairly clear vision of what they wanted to implement. We took their requirements and designed custom electronics and firmware. A single PCB design was developed that would allow it to be used in two different (but similar) roles in the prototype. Depending on how a specific board was to be used, it was populated with 1 of 2 different BOMs. In the primary configuration the board serves as the main controller of the system. In the second configuration the board is used in button ‘expansion’ modules that increase the number of recordings that can be accessed with a button push.
The electronics include:
- An ESP32 MCU (chosen for its WiFi and bluetooth capabilities, which were not implemented in this prototype phase)
- Microphone and audio amplifier (used built-in ESP32 ADC)
- External I2S DAC and audio speaker
- MicroSD card for storage and retrieval of recorded audio files
- Interface to allow for attachment of up to 6 additional sets of buttons
- Li-Ion battery for cordless operation
The software includes:
- Simple button-driven interface for recording and playing back audio
- Ability to playback last ‘n’ recordings that were played
