Application Examples
miniLab can be utilized in numerous applications, whether for experimentation, teaching, research and development (R&D), or Maker projects. While some examples are provided below, many more exciting applications await your discovery.
IoT (Internet of Things)
A controller equipped with sensors and wireless modules can function as a networkable device. On the server side, the captured data can be stored in a database management system (DBMS) such as Oracle, MySQL, NoSQL, PostgreSQL, etc.
The current module utilizes either WebSocket or MQTT for communication.
Controller GUI Display
env module screen
Data Visualization Kanban (Simple Version)
IoT Hardware and Software Collaboration
R & D, Manufacturing
You can monitor voltage, current, and other information at any time, whether in research and development or production. With the thermal sensor module, you can also visualize heat distribution, which makes it easier to identify problems. Additionally, the system can connect to a PC and other external devices for more extensive analysis and recording.
Displays voltage, current, and other information.
PCB heat distribution
Physics experiments
Specific heat capacity
Purpose: To decisively understand and verify specific heat capacity in physics through hands-on experiments, effectively apply algorithms, and develop innovative products that push the boundaries of our knowledge.
Fundamental formula:
where m is the mass of the substance, Q is the amount of heat energy added to the substance, and ΔT is the change in temperature of the substance.
Block Diagram
Heater
Description:
This system utilizes a USB PD adaptor for power supply.
The controller supplies two voltages: one for the heater (USB bypass power) and the other for the temperature sensor, which measures the heater’s temperature.
The system monitors the voltage and current of the heater. The PC controls the voltage and provides variable power to the heater to adjust the temperature. Meanwhile, the temperature sensor reads the temperature value and sends it back to the PC, which manages the output power in a closed-loop control system.
In the specific heat equation, three variables are involved. The mass (m) is known, the temperature (T) is obtained from the temperature sensor, and Q represents the energy in joules, calculated from the output power. The specific heat of the liquid can be derived from these three variables.
If the specific heat is determined, the time required to heat the liquid to a specific temperature can be calculated.
From these experiments, we can quickly develop the necessary algorithms. Furthermore, we can replace the heater with a cooling chip, leading to a broader range of product possibilities.
Fun Facts of Life: Sober up
Controller
Pumper
There are various theories and methods for decanting red wine, categorized into two primary types of decanting methods:
1. Decanter: A decanter is typically made of glass or crystal and is designed to increase the surface area of red wine. This exposure allows oxygen to slowly interact with the wine, revitalizing its flavors. This method is considered a passive approach in terms of electronic influence.
2. Aerator: An aerator is a device that enhances the introduction of oxygen into the wine, significantly reducing the time needed for the wine to “breathe.” This method is active from an electronic standpoint.
According to Wine Enthusiast, the timing and applications of these two methods differ:
Decanter: Use on older wines and more delicate bottlings.
Aerator: Use on young wines, particularly big, bold and tannic reds.
There are several ways to utilize aerators, including methods involving electromagnetic waves, ultrasound, and far infrared technology. This experiment focuses on the aerator method, specifically using a pumper to infuse oxygen into the red wine (assuming a voltage-controlled pumper is being used).
Steps:
1. Use a program to set the power supply that controls the pumper switch.
2. Adjust the voltage to regulate the amount of air intake into the pumper.
3. Set the duration for oxygen intake.
Observe how the flavor of the red wine changes with varying air intake times and volumes.
Additionally, you can utilize a thermo-electric module along with temperature and humidity sensors to explore the effects of different temperatures and humidity levels on the taste of red wine.
