Jack Morgan - Embedded Systems Portfolio

Introduction
Welcome to my Embedded Systems Programming Portfolio. This portfolio showcases my progress, skills, and projects in embedded systems, including Arduino-based circuits, programming, and practical applications of sensors, actuators, and displays. Below is a detailed description of my coursework activities, mini-projects, and an individual project focused on cyber security applications.

Workshop Activities (50% Weighting)

Workbook 2
Activity 1.1 involved LED flashing to show decimal number 63 in binary. Activity 1.2 was about using 4 LEDs to count up in binary from 0 to 15. Activity 1.3 focused on simulating a traffic light system.

Workbook 3
Activity 2.1 required designing a circuit diagram of a button and LED. Activity 2.2 involved using three switches to control an LED. Activity 2.3 used eight buttons and LEDs with switch statements to demonstrate decision-making in embedded systems.

Workbook 4
Activity 3.1 introduced serial port communication. Activity 3.2 focused on converting binary to decimal using a serial port. Activity 3.3 involved calibrating analog information, and Activity 3.4 used a temperature sensor with the serial port to display readings.

Workbook 5
Activity 4.1 explored RGB LED control with switches. Activity 4.2 was an LED matrix maze, which was confirmed as optional by the module leader. Activity 4.3 worked with a 1602 LCD display to show text-based outputs.

Workbook 6 to 9
The activities covered topics including pulse width modulation, interfacing two Arduinos using digital pins and serial I/O, stepper motor control, and designing a windscreen wiper system using servos and a temperature sensor.

Mini Project (50% Weighting)

Cyber Security Motion Detector

Throughout the module, I explored various sensors and actuators using Arduino. For my mini-project, I developed an embedded system for motion detection, incorporating an Arduino Uno R3, PIR Sensor, Neo Pixel Strips, Piezo Buzzer, and an LCD Display. The goal was to create a security system that detects movement within a certain radius and provides visual and auditory alerts.

The system uses an Arduino Uno R3 as the microcontroller. The PIR sensor detects motion and triggers the Neo Pixel Strips, which light up to indicate movement. The Piezo Buzzer serves as an audible alert, and the LCD Display provides status updates, displaying whether the system is active or deactivated.

I created multiple prototypes, refining the circuit design at each stage. Adjustments included resistor placements and direct pin connections to ensure accurate signal processing. The program was structured to read inputs from the PIR sensor and activate the corresponding outputs. The system also incorporated a debounce mechanism to prevent false triggers.

Testing was conducted using Tinkercad, where I simulated different scenarios to verify functionality. An issue arose with the LCD Display not clearing properly, leading to text overwriting. This was resolved using the lcd.clear() command to refresh the display before updating the text. I ensured proper current distribution by incorporating a 250KΩ potentiometer for the LCD Display to prevent power overloads.

The final project worked exactly as intended. The system accurately detected motion and provided immediate feedback through the LEDs, buzzer, and LCD Display. If expanded in the future, I would add additional sensors for front and back door monitoring and modify the program to display which door has detected movement. Since the Arduino Uno R3 has a 32KB memory limit, I ensured that my program was optimized, using only 5KB of memory, leaving ample space for future improvements.

My vision for improvement includes making the system more accessible by integrating flashing red lights for hearing-impaired individuals and enhancing the buzzer tone for those who rely on audio cues. The project highlights the practical applications of embedded systems in cybersecurity and automation, reinforcing my skills in circuit design, programming, and troubleshooting.

Final Thoughts

This portfolio represents my journey in embedded systems, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on applications. The mini-project allowed me to refine my problem-solving skills while developing a functional security system. By creating multiple prototypes, testing thoroughly, and resolving issues efficiently, I successfully built a motion detection system that aligns with real-world security needs. This experience has strengthened my understanding of embedded systems and provided valuable insight into hardware-software integration for automation and security applications.