Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation

Project Design – Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation

Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation

End-Product Design

Senior Design May06-09

Client: Lockheed Martin

Faculty Advisors: Arun Somani

Zhao Zhang

Team Members: Christian Baldus

Isi Oamen

David Roberts

Shawn Yockey

DISCLAIMER: This document was developed as a part of the requirements of anelectrical and computer engineering course at IowaStateUniversity, Ames, Iowa. This document does not constitute a professional engineering design or a professional land surveying document. Although the information is intended to be accurate, the associated students, faculty, and IowaStateUniversity make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, quality, or adequacy of the information. The user of this document shall ensure that any such use does not violate any laws with regard to professional licensing and certification requirements. This use includes any work resulting from this student-prepared document that is required to be under the responsible charge of a licensed engineer or surveyor. This document is copyrighted by the students who produced this document and the associated faculty advisors. No part may be reproduced without the written permission of the senior design course coordinator.

December14, 2005

Table of Contents

1.Introduction

1.1.Executive Summary

1.2.Acknowledgment

1.3.Problem Statement

1.3.1.Problem

1.3.2.Solution

1.4.Operating Environment

1.5.Intended Users and Intended Uses

1.5.1.Intended User(s)

1.5.2.Intended Use(s)

1.6.Assumptions and Limitations

1.6.1.Assumptions

1.6.2.Limitations

1.7.Expected end product and other deliverables

2.Proposed Approach and Product Design Results

2.1.Approach Used

2.1.1.Design Objectives

2.1.1.Functional Requirements

2.1.2.Design Constraints

2.1.3.Technical Approach Considerations and Results

2.1.4.Testing Approach Considerations

2.1.5.Recommendations Regarding Project Continuation or Modification

2.2.Detailed Design

2.2.1.List of Parts

2.2.2.Base Computer Design

2.2.3.Wireless Link Design

3.Estimated Resources and Schedules

3.1.Estimated Resource Equipment

3.1.1.Personnel Effort Requirement

3.1.2.Other Resource Requirements

3.1.3.Financial Resource Requirements

3.2.Schedules

4.Closure Materials

4.1.Project Team Information

4.1.1.Client Information

4.1.2.Faculty Advisor Information

4.1.3.Student Team Information

4.2.Closing Summary

List of Figures

Figure 11: Bluetooth Headset for Voice Activation

Figure 12: Head-mounted Display

Figure 13: Gaming Glove

Figure 21: Wireless Transmitter Block Diagram

Figure 22: Wireless Receiver Block Diagram

Figure 23: Glove Functional Diagram

Figure 31: Gantt chart - Fall 2005 Project Calendar

Figure 32: Gantt chart - Spring 2006 Project Calendar

Figure 33: Gantt chart - Fall 2005 Deliverables

List of Tables

Table 01: Definitions

Table 21: List of Parts

Table 31: Original Personnel Effort Requirements

Table 32: Revised Personnel Effort Requirements

Table 33: Original Other Resource Requirements

Table 34: Revised Other Resource Requirements

Table 35: Original Financial Resource Requirements

Table 36: Original Financial Resource Requirements (cont.)

Table 37: Revised Financial Resource Requirements

Table 41: Client Information

Table 42: Faculty Advisor Information

Table 43: Team Member Information

Table 01: Definitions

Term / Description
Artifact / Any object made, modified or used by a project team.
Battery / A device that stores energy and makes it available in an electrical form.
Black box / A device whose internal make-up, design, or operation is discrete. Its function is known, but usually not its internal components.
Bluetooth / A radio technology built around a new chip that makes it possible to transmit signals over short distances between computers and hand-held devices without the use of wires.
Bluewand / A small, pen-like device that can be used to control Bluetooth enabled devices by hand-movements.
CD-ROM / Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. An optical disc holding computer data.
Chair / A seat typically having four legs and a back for one person.
Computer / A programmable electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data.
Dragon Naturally Speaking / A software program that allows the user to type at 160 words per minute by speaking to the computer in perfectly natural continuous speech.
Floppy drive / Stores and retrieves information on floppy disks. The floppy disk consists of a plastic casing enclosed in a thin piece of plastic. The plastic has a coding of magnetic particles on it, onto which the information is written in magnetic code.
Glasses / An optical instrument consisting of a pair of lenses and often worn on the face.
Glove / A covering for the hand having separate sections for each of the fingers and the thumb and often extending part way up the arm.
HDD / Hard disk drive. It is generally used as a storage device in a personal computer.
Headset / A device which allows for hands-free operation via an ear and mouthpiece.
Interface / The means by which two systems or devices are connected and interact with each other.
Keyboard / An assemblage of systematically arranged keys by which a machine or device is operated.
LCD Screen / A monitor that utilizes a liquid crystal display instead of cathode ray tubes.
Memory stick / A type of transportable data storage device.
MicroGyro / A fully integrated, dual-axis miniature gyroscope that is fully self-contained for easy integration into human input devices such as computer mice, remote controls and game controllers.
Term / Description
Microphone / A device for converting acoustic sound waves into an electrical representation of the sound wave.
Modular / Structural elements that are interchangeable. Maximum flexibility in arrangement and size.
Monitor / A cathode-ray tube used for display (as of television pictures or computer information).
Motherboard / The principal circuit board of the computer that contains the processor.
Pentium / A high-speed microprocessor chip made by Intel.
Pointer device / A device for moving the cursor, e.g. a mouse.
Prototype / The original form which serves as a model on which successors are based.
Secured for Sea / Fastened in such a manner as to ensure nothing will shake loose in a turbulent environment.
Touch pad / An input device commonly used in laptop computers. It is used to move the cursor, using motions of the user's finger. It is a substitute for a computer mouse.
Trackball / A ball that is mounted usually in a computer console so as to be only partially exposed and is rotated to control the movement of a cursor on a display.
UNIX / An operating system that supports multitasking and is ideally suited to multi-user applications (such as networks).
USB / Universal Serial Bus. A protocol for transferring data to and from digital devices.
VAC / Voltage Alternating Current. The voltage measurement in an AC system.
VDC / Voltage Direct Current. The voltage measurement in a DC system.
Voice recognition / An electronic software/hardware system that can be trained to recognize an individual’s voice patterns to allow for an alternative means of computer input replacing the keyboard.
Web cam / A real time camera whose images can be accessed using the World Wide Web, instant messaging, or a personal computer video calling application.
Workstation / A powerful computer often used for scientific applications. Also a desk, chair and other equipment at which someone works.

Senior Design May06-09 - 1 -

Project Design – Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation

1.Introduction

Introductory topics develop an overview of the end product and specify design issues as given by the user. The introductory section covers seven main areas: abstract, acknowledgement, problem statement, operating environment, intended users and intended use, assumptions and limitations, and finally the expected end product and other deliverables.

1.1.Executive Summary

Current computer console paradigms involve the use of significant computer hardware within an enclosure presented in front of the operator, which must be environmentally protected and maintained. Specifically in a military application a less cumbersome method of interface is needed to allow soldiers to accomplish their typical work tasks. The solution to this problem is the development of a versatile and modular workstation mounted to a chair allowing greater freedom of movement while maintaining functionality and durability. The result of this project will be an operational prototype that may be modeled for future development. This prototype will demonstrate a feasible and reliable solution to the current problem, allowing the operator mobility without sacrificing functionality.

1.2.Acknowledgment

Dr. Arun Somani and Dr. Zhao Zhang of IowaStateUniversity will provide technical and practical advice throughout the creation process. Further, R. J. Monson of Lockheed Martin will provide design specifications and requirements as appropriate.

1.3.Problem Statement

The problem statement consists of two areas: the problem and the solution. These statements shall provide the reader with a general overview of the problem and the approach that will be used to solve the problem. This is included so that the reader will have the correct conception of the problem and the solution approach upfront.

1.3.1.Problem

The intended placement of the design, as specified by the project client, is in a tactical military environment aboard either a watercraft or aircraft. The intended operator for the design is specified as a sailor or airman in the United States military, but the design may be extended to any similar military or civilian environment. As such, the design assumes full use of all limbs and fingers and the ability to understand words and symbols common to the English language. Further, as a high school education or equivalent is required for participation in the United States military, such a level of education is also assumed.

The user interface must allow similar functionality to that of a standard personal computer system, while simultaneously allowing the greatest freedom of movement possible. Further, a display must allow the operator unobstructed view of the output while also allowing a view of his/her peripheral environment. Suitable replacement for standard input/output devices will be incorporated in a novel configuration to allow the user full functionality while simultaneously protecting the hardware and software devices from environmental factors such as impact or excessive movement. Such alternative devices may include a voice activated system and a function specific programmable keyboard. The intended power supply for the main unit is 120 volts, alternating current, to allow for a more universal power adaptation. Further power considerations will include the use of a rechargeable battery system for the satellite display, voice activation system, and pointer system. The specific power supplies will be altered as needed.

To ensure the proper functionality of the workstation, the core system components must be secured to the chair while the audio, video, and pointer components must be attached to the body of the operator. To allow non-intrusive communication between the main unit and the wearable devices, a wireless link must be implemented. In addition to environmental factors such as heat, cold, dirt, and dust, the design must compensate for possible environmental instability such as rocking, swaying, tilting and shock.

1.3.2.Solution

In general, research into commercial applications and implementations ofsimilar products will determine what solutions have and have not worked in thepast. A review of current voice activation technologies will provideinformation on the durability, functionality and availability of numerousconfigurations. Further, speech-oriented input configurations will be reviewedfor applicability within a moderate to high ambient noise environment. Inaddition, the microphone needs to be wireless to prevent the user from beingentangled with excessive cords. A Bluetooth microphone very similar to theone shown below shall be employed. This will allow for discrete,accurate communication within a low to moderate ambient noise atmosphere. Power for the microphone will be supplied by a rechargeable internal battery.

Figure 11: Bluetooth Headset for Voice Activation

Display implementation will include a wearable display mounted inside a pair of glasses. The voice activation and display will all be implemented so thatthe user does not have constrained mobility. Streaming wireless andbattery-operated technologies will be incorporated to transmit signals fromthese devices to the main processing unit. The display unit will be verysimilar to the monocular head-mounted display shown below. The batterysupply and wireless transmission hardware will be connected via wire to asmall module connected to the user's belt.

Figure 12: Head-mounted Display

The user will employ a glove to act as a pointer similar to a mouse ortrackball. The hardware for the glove shall be placed on the back of the handsimilar to the gaming glove pictured below. The glove subsystem shallemploy Bluetooth technology to prevent the user from becoming entangled in excessive cables. The power for the glove shall be worn on the user’s beltwith cables routed through a vest to the belt. When the user moves their handup and down or left to right, the pointer shall move accordingly. The reasonfor this is a MicroGyro embedded in the glove to monitor movement. Theclicking shall be accomplished with spines similar to the gaming glove. Whenthe finger moves 90 degrees towards the palm, it is interpreted by the gloveto be a mouse-click. The design of the glove shall enable a member of the military to be able to perform their duties and operate a computer at the same time.

Figure 13: Gaming Glove

The main computer will be a laptop that is secured in a docking station under the chair. This shall expedite maintenance and allow for use of the laptop’s disk drives if need be. In addition, this shall make the process of securing the computer simpler when not in use. If the laptop contains classified data it can be placed into the drawer of a safe when not in use. The laptop will be Bluetooth-enabled to allow it to communicate with all of the Bluetooth components of the system.

1.4.Operating Environment

The Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation is intended to be a self-contained, modular system requiring an external 120 volt alternating current and a rechargeable battery system to operate. The specific values of the power supply will be altered as needed during product implementation. All hardware will be secured to the chair or operator and the entire system will be mobile. Potential environmental hazards include excessive heat, cold, condensation, dust, dirt and environmental movement such as rocking or tilting. Additionally, operation in a small physical space and the movement of personnel around the workstation must be considered.

1.5.Intended Users and Intended Uses

This subsection shall include two separately identified components: the intended user and the intended use. To properly design an end product that will provide the maximum satisfaction and perform in the most efficient manner, it is essential to understand the end user and the associated end uses.

1.5.1.Intended User(s)

The intended operator for the design is a member of the United States Military. However, the design may be utilized by other individuals as well. Thus, the intended user group is a constraint of the client specifications, rather than inherent in the design itself. The design assumes full use of all limbs and fingers and the ability to understand words and symbols common to the English language and utilized on standard American computer keyboards. Education level is assumed to be of a high school equivalent or higher with adequate training on system use prior to operation. The design is intended for use by both males and females and is not age specific. The workstation shall be implemented so that any operator may use it regardless of height.

1.5.2.Intended Use(s)

The workstation is intended to be installed on a watercraft or aircraft for military purposes. As such, the design will facilitate use and proper operation within limited physical space. The projected prototype shall not be platform specific or require any special software beyond the standard hardware device drivers. The design will allow proper operation of any application requiring standard personal computer capabilities. Input/Output capacities allow further hardware or software expansion as needed.

1.6.Assumptions and Limitations

This subsection describes design assumptions and limitations taken prior to development. Although these are flexible and may change, the majority shall remain integral components to the design process. The assumptions are made in regard to specific uses and functionality, while the limitations are taken in regard to operating environment and power availability.

1.6.1.Assumptions

1. The initial number of users shall be one, but the system shall be network capable to enable communication between systems.
2. The system will be used in a tactical military environment and thus subject to tolerable environmental factors such as dust, dirt, temperature variations, gravitation, and vibrations.
3. The system will be installed in a secure area; therefore hardware personnel identification devices (i.e. identification readers) are not necessary.
4. Physical area unit utilizes will be limited to smallest design possible while maintaining functionality.
5. The workstation shall be sheltered such that direct sunlight, rain, snow, etc. are not factors.
6. Only reading capabilities are needed; therefore a standard CD-ROM drive is sufficient.
7. Networking implementation will be wireless.
8. The prototype will utilize the Microsoft Windows XP operating system. This allows for ease of use and budget considerations and is in no way a limitation of the design itself.

1.6.2.Limitations

1. The system will run from both a 120 VAC source and a rechargeable battery system.
2. The system should occupy the smallest amount of space possible.
3. The placement of components cannot interfere with the mobility of the operator.
4. All hardware must be securable to either the chair or the operator.
5. The functionality must match or exceed that of a common personal computer.
6. All components must be modular, allowing for easy replacement and adjustment in a tactical environment.
7. All components must be robust and able to endure greater than normal physical wear.
8. Although military specifications upon components is desired, budgetary constraints impose a limitation to standard components. This is a budgetary imposition and in no way reflects a limit of the design itself.

1.7.Expected end product and other deliverables

A standalone, completely operational prototype for the Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation will be delivered to Lockheed-Martin. The Workstation will provide or exceed the same functionality as a personal computer, but in a modular and compact design. Complete functionality will be provided through voice-activated functions in a novel setup, head-mounted display, and standard input. Communication between the display module to the main processor shall be wireless. The system shall demonstrate non-conventional methods of data entry into a computer, allowing for less space to be used by the traditional computer input devices.