Rapid Prototyping of Embedded Interface Designs

An introduction to rapid prototyping of embedded devices and interfaces. Includes a review of prototyping; approaches, goals, fidelity, and other concerns. Also a look at the embedded device product development cycle and how it relates to prototyping, as well as special considerations for prototypes and products that use wireless communications. Includes a brief review of the class programming assignments for prototyping Qt and HTML interfaces as used for embedded devices, and pre-project preparation suggestions.

A review of the mechanics and methods of creating user interfaces for embedded devices and systems. We'll look at using Qt, HTML, and other tools for creating prototype and product interfaces. We'll consider best practices for GUI designs, and look at the microinteraction model, which helps isolate key interactions to create signature moments for our device designs. The first development project, developing a Qt interface with Python, is also part of this module.

In this module we'll look at choosing elements for prototyping embedded devices. First a look at the Pugh Matrix for assessing alternative designs by examining ranked criteria, then a review of hardware platforms and supporting software operating systems that can combine to provide a prototype of a working embedded device or system. In particular, we'll look at the elements of FreeRTOS for microprocessor based prototypes that may need IoT or cloud connectivity. The second programming project, developing an HTML-based device interface is part of this module.