Interactie-technologie (INFOB3IT)

In (INFOB3IT), I explored the design and implementation of interactive systems, blending embedded hardware, human-computer interaction (HCI), and Internet of Things (IoT) principles. This course combined theoretical lectures with hands-on practical assignments, assessed via two exams and two major projects. Below is a breakdown of the topics covered:

Embedded Systems and Sensors

Microcontroller Programming: Covered programming the Stickuino to interface with sensors and actuators, managing I/O pins, interrupts, and timers.

Sensor Integration: Worked with distance, motion, light, and temperature sensors to capture real-world data.

Actuator Control: Controlled LEDs, LCD displays, and a MOSFET-driven toilet freshener for interactive outputs.

Circuit Design: Acquired soldering skills and built circuits on breadboards, ensuring robust hardware setups.

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and User-Centered Design

User Needs Analysis: Conducted user research to define requirements for interactive devices.

Prototyping: Developed low-fidelity and functional prototypes to test design concepts.

Heuristic Evaluation: Applied Nielsen’s usability heuristics to assess and improve system usability.

Design Principles: Learned to prioritize user experience (UX) in system functionality and interface design.

Internet of Things (IoT) Fundamentals

MQTT Protocol: Implemented the MQTT protocol on an ESP8266 NodeMCU for remote device communication.

IoT Platform: Built a networked system with clients (Node-RED app) for control and visualization.

Gesture Control: Integrated an MPU-6050 accelerometer/gyroscope for gesture-based interaction.

System Integration: Connected embedded devices to the internet, managing WiFi and data flows.

Practical Application

Assignment 1: Smart Toilet Freshener: Designed and built an interactive toilet freshener using the Interaction Technology kit. Implemented state tracking (e.g., ‘in use’ or ‘Activated: spray imminent’) with sensors and actuators, programmed in Arduino C, and evaluated usability with heuristic methods.

Assignment 2: Connected Plant System: Developed an IoT-enabled plant care system with a NodeMCU, monitoring soil moisture, temperature, and light via sensors. Added gesture control using a Stickuino and MPU-6050 (Fit onto a glove for capturing hand gestures), interfaced via MQTT, and tested usability with participants.

Through these projects, I applied embedded programming, HCI principles, and IoT concepts to create functional, user-focused systems, with exams testing my theoretical understanding.