Internet of things development hardware platform

Abstract

This invention involves an IoT development hardware platform which integrates sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers onto a single board, eliminating the need for cumbersome hardware wiring. It features a flexible voltage circuit design supporting various modules requiring 3.3, 5, and 12 volts, enabling easy connectivity with a wide range of IoT devices. Developers can utilize multiple connection options, such as On Board, Modular, and Jumper configurations. The platform can be connected to a computer system via USB for programming capabilities, enhancing its capabilities for building and deploying comprehensive IoT solutions.

Description

Internet of Things Development Hardware Platform

[0001] The present patent involves an Internet of Things hardware platform which was meticulously crafted with the intention of aiding the development process and reducing complexities for users. This platform serves as an all-in-one integrated solution, providing developers with a wide array of boards, sensors, actuators, and communication modules that they can seamlessly incorporate into their projects. The compact design of the hardware platform allows for the implementation of various applications in smaller dimensions, making it ideal for IoT projects that require space-saving solutions.

[0002] By bridging the gap between different components necessary for IoT solutions, this hardware platform revolutionizes the traditional approach to application development. It enables developers to transition from a conventional development model to a more professional and industrialized method, empowering them to create sophisticated IoT applications with greater ease and efficiency.

[0003] G16Y 40 / 00 – H04L 29 / 08 – H05K 1 / 18

[0004] CN116661775

[0005] INTERNET OF THINGS DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD BASED ON PROGRAMMABLE SCRIPT

[0006] The invention provides an Internet of Things development system and method based on a programmable script, and relates to the technical field of Internet of Things development and embedded control. The system comprises a hardware driving layer which is responsible for docking different physical hardware and specifically comprises a programmable script, a script running environment and an equipment driving program; the hardware abstraction layer abstracts different physical hardware into a unified software data structure, and specifically comprises hardware abstraction data, a hardware abstraction library and a hardware abstraction interface; and the application development layer is used for performing an application development tool chain under a unified data platform, specifically comprises a Dev Framework, a software development kit (SDK) and a Build System, and is used for providing a scripted solution for embedded equipment development.

[0007] This invention relates to the development of IoT and provides hardware in a similar manner to ours, however, the overall scope and purpose of the two patents are different. For instance, this one emphasizes programmable scripts while ours has a primary focus on providing a wide range of support to facilitate connections for equipments.

[0008] CN209659724

[0009] INDUSTRIAL CONTROL INTERNET OF THINGS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PLATFORM

[0010] The utility model discloses an industrial control internet of things research and development platform. The system comprises an STM32F407IGT6 system circuit, a single-chip microcomputer and a single-chip microcomputer, the STM32F407IGT6 system circuit board is loaded with an STM32F407IGT6 system circuit board, an STM32F407IGT6 system circuit board and an STM32F407IGT6 system circuit board, an IS62WV51216BLL-55TLI RAM (Random Access Memory) storage chip is used for storing the data; extended SRAM, the simulation JTAG interface is used for controlling ARM online debugging; two paths of 12V DC-24V DC power supply inputs are provided.

[0011] This mentioned patent shares certain qualities with our design in providing an IoT development platform which includes a variety of circuit boards and equipment. However, this invention relates specifically to the field of industrial control while ours has no such limitation and could be used for the development of any IoT system.

[0012] CN111586093

[0013] INTERNET OF THINGS TECHNOLOGY APPLICATION PLATFORM

[0014] The invention relates to the technical field of Internet of Things. The invention further discloses an application platform of the Internet of Things technology of the IotScreen. The system comprisesequipment, an operation environment and a network server, wherein the equipment output end is in signal connection with the operation environment input end; the operation environment comprises a business system loading module, a service module and a basic capability module, wherein the operation environment output end is in signal connection with the input end of the intelligent gateway, and the output end of the intelligent gateway is in signal connection with the input end of the microprocessor.

[0015] This invention also provides services in the field of IoT development, however, the scope and comprising elements are different compared to our design. For instance, ours includes capabilities to support and help develop a wide range of IoT based systems. Whereas this one specifically involves an IoTScreen technology application platform.

[0016] US10776080B2

[0017] Integrated development tool for an internet of things (IOT) system

[0018] A system and method are described for an IoT integrated development tool. For example, one embodiment of an apparatus comprises: an Internet of Things (IoT) development application comprising a GUI through which a developer is to specify a configuration for a new IoT device.

[0019] This invention similarly to ours aims to facilitate IoT system development, however, the primary focus here is on the proposed application and graphical user interface, while ours has a wider scope and emphasizes the simplification of hardware modules by supporting a large variety of equipment.

[0020] United States Patent Application 20240201753

[0021] Hardware receiver and support set for Internet of Things (IoT) system developers

[0022] A hardware receiver and support set for developers of Internet of Things (IoT) systems, such as physical objects (or groups thereof) with sensors, processing capability, software, and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems via the Internet or other communication networks, including a first cover piece (2) and a second base piece (3), both pieces operatively linked to each other forming a multipurpose enclosure (1).

[0023] This invention provides a multipurpose solution in developing internet of things systems and bears a strong resemblance to our design. However, the intricate design and assembly of comprising elements as well as presenting the arrangement in an enclosure is different from ours.

[0024] The IoT hardware platform presented here is a seamlessly integrated system designed specifically to eliminate the need for cumbersome hardware wiring by incorporating sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers onto a single board. Each component has its dedicated space and corresponding connections, including PCB Tracks for efficient wiring and power circuit integration.

[0025] One of the standout features of this platform is its flexible voltage circuit design, capable of supporting various modules and boards requiring 3.3, 5, and 12 volts. This versatile design allows for easy connectivity and compatibility with a wide range of IoT devices. Moreover, developers can take advantage of the platform's multiple connection options, including On Board, Modular, and Jumper configurations.

[0026] To further enhance its capabilities, the hardware platform can be connected to a computer system via a USB port, providing developers with programming capabilities and ease of integration with existing software solutions. Overall, this hardware platform offers a convenient way for building and deploying IoT systems.

[0027] Since the emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT), enthusiasts and developers of this concept all tend to use all the capabilities and hardware in a package for their desired application areas or work. Unfortunately, the lack of equipment or a reliable integrated hardware platform has long been felt among developers, which, if available, could increase the interest in developing smart solutions. Among the most important problems in this area that can be mentioned are:

[0028] 1) The slow and difficult hardware development process of Internet of Things projects

[0029] 2) Focusing more time and attention of specialists and project programmers on the hardware part and the existence of weakness in the software part and reducing the quality of the codes.

[0030] 3) Permanent defects due to the manual assembly of project hardware and the difficulty of final troubleshooting of the project, which can be due to incorrect assembly or coding defects.

[0031] 4) The limited educational space of the Internet of Things, the slowness of the teaching process and the decrease in the quality of education due to problems in the development process such as module burning, the time-consuming wiring process, and connection errors.

[0032] In order to solve this challenge, an Internet of Things hardware platform was designed for rapid development of solutions based on it and reducing complications. This platform is actually an integrated hardware platform that allows developers to use a variety of boards, sensors, actuators and communication modules to implement their desired applications in small dimensions. By creating a seamless connection between the equipment required for Internet of Things solutions, this hardware platform moves the application development process from the traditional model to a professional model similar to the industrial method.Solution of Problem

[0033] This solution tackles many problems, each of which are serious obstacles in the way of expanding the development space of the Internet of Things and projects. In the following, the existing challenges that have been resolved following the development of this product are discussed further:

[0034] - Increasing the speed of the hardware development process of Internet of Things projects

[0035] The development of projects in the early phases of the Internet of Things is often accompanied by slowness, and this is due to the nature of such projects. Because the designers have to provide the necessities, establish connections, functional testing and other hardware and electronic items. The breadth and complexity of hardware leads to the loss of project time, especially in situations where specialists have limited knowledge in the field of electronics. The mentioned challenge is solved by this invention to a considerable extent which speeds up the development processes of the hardware part of the projects.

[0036] - Increased focus on coding

[0037] One of the problems that software experts face in IoT projects is the programmer's lack of focus. The hardware part needs special attention and in case of getting involved with wires, cables and boards, a significant amount of focus and attention of programmers and specialists is directed to the hardware. By using the developed kit, it is possible to focus on the software part of the projects and finally improve the quality of the codes and the final product.

[0038] - Increasing reliability of manual hardware assembly of projects

[0039] In training samples and prepared prototypes, there are constantly errors. The main challenge is when it is sometimes unclear whether the problem is a hardware connection or the code needs to be changed. There is always the possibility of errors if you proceed with the hardware assembly of the projects manually. While using the desihned kit, this possibility is minimized and project debugging is done with less difficulty. In addition, by using this hardware platform, the failure and burning of parts is significantly reduced.

[0040] The presented hardware platform is designed in such a way that sensors, actuators and microcontrollers of the Internet of Things are integrated without the need for any hardware wiring. The space related to each equipment is built on this board, and in the bases designed for each equipment, connections and wirings (PCB Tracks) and their connection with the power circuit and voltage are provided. This platform is connected to the computer system through a USB port and provides programming capabilities for developers.

[0041] The designed platform facilitates IOT development using the following elements:

[0042] -A designed PCB with communication connections for equipment

[0043] -Sensors and actuators Switch, WS2813, Relay, Push Button, IR Receiver, Buzzer, LDR, DC Power Jack, which are embedded on the PCB.

[0044] -Pins for LM2596, SIM7000G, SIM800L, LORA, MQ, RFID RC 522, Ultrasonic, RF04 / SRF05, OLED SSD1306, PIR, DSI8B20 / DHTXX, STM32 Blue Pill, ESP32, Arduino

[0045] The most important technical features of this hardware platform are:

[0046] • Voltage circuit design to support the connection of all modules and boards with voltage 3.3, 5 and 12

[0047] • Ability to connect equipment as On Board, Modular and Jumper

[0048] The details of the overall technical specifications of the design are listed in [Table 1].

[0049] Sensors, actuators, communication modules, development boards and all other equipment can be installed on or communicate with the platform in three different ways:

[0050] – On Board: The equipment that was installed as On Board [Pic. 2], cannot be separated and is installed on it during assembly.

[0051] The details of the ON Board comprising parts and equipments is listed in [Table 2].

[0052] – Modular: The equipment considered as modular in the designed platform [Pic. 3], in addition to having a specific placement, can be separated and used independently.

[0053] The details of the Modular placements are listed in [Table 3].

[0054] – Jumper: All devices [Pic. 4] that support analog, digital, I2C, SPI, and UART data transfer protocols can be connected to the device using jumper wires.

[0055] The details of Jumper arrangements for the bases (sensors, actuators, modules) are listed in [Table 4].

[0056] The details of arrangements for the bases (microcontrollers) are listed in [Table 5].

[0057] The presented design provides the necessary connections and supports a wide range of IOT related equipment including various types of boards, relay actuators, buzzer, OLED display, colored LEDs, different communication modules and featured integrated IC convertors.Advantage Effects of the Invention

[0058] • Supporting 8 motion, temperature, ultrasonic, pressure, photocell (LDR), infrared (IR), gas (MQ) and RFID tags

[0059] • Supporting 4 relay actuators, buzzer, OLED display and color LEDs

[0060] • Supporting 3 LoRa communication modules, SIM800, and SIM7000

[0061] • Supporting 3 development boards Arduino Uno, STM32 and ESP32

[0062] • Light, portable and accessible

[0063] • Multi-purpose due to integrated convertor IC

[0064] • Comprehensive

[0065] Displays a flowchart of the designed platform and its comprising elements.

[0066] Shows a general flowchart of the designed platform and its main features and capabilities including connection types, comprising elements and supported voltage groups which make it all the more accessible.. The primary focus here has been on simplifying the IoT system development and more specifically the hardware layer by providing a wide range of support for various equipment and connection types.Examples

[0067] The invention provides a multi-purpose platform, therefore It can be functional in a wide range of projects and facilities including:

[0068] • Smart industrial laboratories

[0069] • Internet of Things research laboratories

[0070] • Computer science, electricity and electronics laboratories of universities

[0071] • Projects related to testing and developing prototypes in knowledge-based companies and startup teams.

[0072] • Projects related to testing and development of performance of semi-industrial products

[0073] • Internet of Things projects related to testing and development of intelligent and automation-oriented industrial applications

[0074] [Pic. 1] An overview of the designed platform and the comprising elements is displayed in [Pic. 1].

[0075] [Pic. 1]

[0076]

[0077] The detailed technical specifications and features of the designed platform are listed in [Table 1].

[0078]

[0079] [Pic. 2] Since the designed platform could be applied in an On Board manner, a view of the related equipment and their placement is captured here.

[0080] [Pic. 2]

[0081]

[0082] The details of the ON Board comprising parts and equipments is listed in [Table 2].

[0083]

[0084] [Pic. 3] The designed platform also supports Modular arrangement.

[0085] [Pic. 3]

[0086]

[0087] The deails of the Modular equipment and their placement are listed in [Table 3].

[0088]

[0089] [Pic. 4] The designed platform supports Jumper connections as well, as displayed here.

[0090] [Pic. 4]

[0091]

[0092] The details related to Jumper connections, more specifically the sensors, actuators and modules are listed in [Table 4].

[0093]

[0094] The details regarding Jumper base arrangements and microcontrollers are listed in [Table 5].

[0095]

[0096] This invention will be very widely used in a variety of fields that involve the implementation of IoT based systems. According to the nature of the hardware platform produced as well as the supported equipment, it can be applied in many industries including the following:

[0097] • Construction

[0098] • Repairs and maintenance

[0099] • Agriculture

[0100] • Livestock and poultry breeding

[0101] • Transportation

[0102] • Parking

[0103] • Street lighting

[0104] • Pollution monitoring

Claims

A multi-purpose hardware platform is designed to support the development of Internet of Things based systems which includes:-A designed PCB with communication connections for equipment-Sensors and actuators Switch, WS2813, Relay, Push Button, IR Receiver, Buzzer, LDR, DC Power Jack, which are embedded on the PCB.-Pins for LM2596, SIM7000G, SIM800L, LORA, MQ, RFID RC 522, Ultrasonic, RF04 / SRF05, OLED SSD1306, PIR, DSI8B20 / DHTXX, STM32 Blue Pill, ESP32, ArduinoAccording to claim 1, this design can connect equipment in three modes including On Board, Modular and Jumper.According to claim 1, using this device, the sensors, actuators and microcontrollers of the Internet of Things are connected together without the need for any hardware wiring.According to claim 1, this device has the ability to support three Internet of Things boards which include STM32 Blue Pill, ESP32 and Arduino.According to claim 1, this device can support 4 relay actuators, buzzer, OLED display and colored LEDs simultaneously.According to claim 1, this device can support 3 LoRa communication modules, SIM800 and SIM7000.According to claim 1, this device features integrated IC convertors and therefore has the ability to create a seamless connection between 3.3, 5 and 12 voltage devices.According to claim 1, this device establishes the continuous connection between the bases while removing the physical wiring between the equipment.

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