The Engineering Projects

Introduction to Python

Hello Engineers! Hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, I am giving you a detailed lecture on Python programming language. As I am writing this tutorial for beginners, that's why I will discuss each & everything in detail, so it's going to be a very lengthy tutorial and I have divided it in parts.

We will start from basic concepts in Python and will slowly move towards advanced concepts. It's going to be a quite long bumpy ride but I will try my best to make it as smooth as I can. So, let's get started with basic Introduction to Python Language:

Introduction to python

• Python is a multi-purpose, object-oriented High-Level Programming language, with applications in multiple areas, including scripting, machine learning, data sciences, scientific learning, cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
• It is the most popular language of 2019, and it is going to flourish exponentially in upcoming years because of its versatility & flexibility.
• Organizations like Google, NASA, and CIA are using it already.
• Python processes at RUNTIME by the INTERPRETER, so you don't need to compile your program before executing it.
• There are three major versions of Python programming language are available i.e. 1.X, 2.X and 3.X. They have sub-versions such as 2.2.3 and 3.3.1.

So, the IDE (Integrated Development Environment) which I am going to use is PyCharm Community Edition.

• PyCharm Community Edition is free of cost and open-source. You can use it easily.
• Jetbrains developed this for professional developers.

Prerequisites for Python

As I have told you earlier, I will start from the very basics and will cover almost everything about Python, so if you follow & practice this tutorial completely then you will surely learn Python, even if you are a beginner and know nothing about programming. But still, it would be better if you have:

• knowledge of some basic concepts like loops, control statements, variables, etc.
• It is not required to learn any other programming language before you learn python.
• It is not required to have an engineering background to learn this language.
• If you are from any other discipline like Sciences, Social sciences or any other academic field, you can still learn it.

Uses of Python

• As I have mentioned earlier, Python is used in various areas like Machine learning, scripting, scientific computing, Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing etc.
• So many communities are forced to use python these days, such as:
  • Network Engineers.
  • Software Engineers.
  • Data Analysts.
  • Mathematicians.
  • Scientists.
  • Accountants.
  • Website & App Developers.
• A wide range of jobs are using this multi-purpose language, namely:
  • Desktop application development.
  • Mobile application development.
  • Web application development.
  • Automation Scripts.
  • Algorithmic and high-frequency trading.
  • Machine learning.
  • Artificial intelligence.
  • Software testing.
  • Hacking.
  • Mathematics.
  • Networks.

I hope now you have the idea of Python's importance these days. So, let's move on to the next step.

DATA SCIENCE AND MACHINE LEARNING

Data science and machine learning are the main reasons, why programmers are learning this language.

• Python offers different frameworks and libraries, for example, PyBrain, PyMySQL, and NumPy.
• Python experience allows you more than R Language.
• You can create scripts to automate material and go with web developments, and so on, respectively.
•  If you want to work in machine learning, you can easily work with Python.
• Some of the examples of machine learning are, google chatbots. They answer your questions and queries through python algorithms.

Download & Install Python

Enough with the theoretical stuff, now let's get our hands on Python software:

• First of all, you need to download Python, they have provided Python for Windows, Linux/UNIX, Mac OS X etc.
• At the time of this writing, Python 3.8.3 is the latest version, so download & install it.
• Make sure you check the Python path when you continue, otherwise, it will not work in the future.
• Next, we need to download PyCharm, which is the IDE for professional developers.
• You will find two versions on its download page i.e. Professional and Community.
• We are going to download the community version for now, as we are in the learning phase.
• You can download PyCharm for Windows, Mac & Linux.
• After downloading the PyCharm, simply install it.
• During installation, you need to check on the
  • 64-bit launcher.
  • Add launcher dir to the PATH.
  • Create Associations .py
• I have ticked these 3 options, as shown in the below image:

• Now click on the Next button and then click on Install and PyCharm will be installed on your computer.
• You need to restart your computer for adding launcher dir to the PATH.

Creating First Python Project on PyCharm

• Click the PyCharm icon and open the IDE.
• On its first run, it will ask for the UI theme, which I am going to select Dracula, as I like the dark one.
• Now, click on "Create New Project, select the location where you want to save your file and then click close.

We have created our first project in PyCharm and next, we need to add python files to this project. So let's start with the first Python program.

• In the left window titled Project, we have a tree structure of our files.
• These are library files that are necessary for running the project successfully, we will discuss them later.
• So, in this Project Panel, we need to right-click on our Project Folder and then New and then select Python File, as shown in the figure on the right side.
• Give a name to your file, as I have named it myy.py.
• Now let's write our first line of code:

print("my world, my rules")

• Click on Run in the top menu bar then select Run. You can also use the shortcut key (Alt+shift+F10).
• IDE will ask you to select the file for execution, so we need to select our python file.
• Once you select your python file, a new dialog box will open up at the bottom, and you will find your string printed there i.e. my world, my rules.
• Here's the screenshot of our first Python code in Pycharm:

• So, we have successfully executed our first Python code in PyCharm. :)

So, that was all for today. I hope now you have a better understanding of what python is and why its so popular. If you have any questions, please feel free to as kin comments. In the next lecture, we will have a look at datatypes in python. Till then take care and have fun !!! :)

A Tour to NextPCB – Fabrication House

Hello everyone, I hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, we will have a look at another competitive Fabrication House named NextPCB. Recently, I was working on a project, where I need to design some PCBs and this time, I thought of trying NextPCB. If anyone ask me, about my experience with NEXTPCB in one word, then I would say splendid !!! So, let's have a look at why we should select NEXTPCB for our next PCB order:

Quick Review about NextPCB

• NextPCB, based in China, is working in PCB manufacturing field for 15 years.
• They not only design single PCB, but also fabricate PCB Assembly & PCB Stencil.
• NextPCB manufacturing materials are certified by IATF 16949, ISO9001, ISO14001, UL, RoHS and REACH.

• They work on all types of PCBs i.e. single layer, double layer, multi-layer, through-hole, surface mount etc.
• They are following modern techniques and are thus proved quite innovative in PCB assembling.
• They provide a quick delivery response as fast as 24 hours.
• They provide a dedicated 24/7 customer service, and you can also use online chat on their official website.
• They have a great Quality assurance team, which makes sure that your product has all quality testing approvals.
• Their no order size restriction i.e. you can order single PCB or can design hundreds.
• They have a user friendly website, which is quite handy as it has a lot of features i.e.
  • You can calculate your final price.
  • You can easily order PCBs and can also track them.
  • Can you customer support.
• Currently, there's a sale running on their site i.e. You can order 10 pieces of 4-layer PCB for $12.

NextPCB Price Packages

• On their website, they currently have four packages available, which are:
  • Price: $12 for 10 pieces of 4-Layer PCB.
  • Trial PCB Order is free of cost, you can order 5-10 pieces of 1-2 layer PCBs. (It's the best one)
  • Price: $4.5 for 10 pcs of 2-Layer PCB.
  • Price: $28 for 10 pcs of PCB Assembly Trial.

NextPCB Instant Quote

• I have found this calculator on its official site titled PCB Instant Quote, which is really helpful that's why mentioning here.
• Using this calculator, you can get the final instant quote of your order.
• It's rich with features so you can add all your requirements in it and then calculate the final cost.
• They have provided this calculator for single PCB, PCB Assembly & PCB Stencil, as shown in below figure:

NextPCB PCB Assembly Capabilities

• NextPCB provides competitive price with PCB Assembly Service.
• NextPCB uses AOI & X-Ray testing to guarantee the quality of assembly project.
• NextPCB is capable of small production and mass production for PCB Assembly, which start from 5 pieces.
• They provide fast delivery with DHL.
• Few of it's PCB capabilities are as follows:
  • PCBs with up to 16 layers
  • Min.Trace/Space 3.5mil(3.5mil)
  • PCB Materials Fr-4, Aluminum, Rogers, Arlon, Polyamide
  • Qty req 5-1000+
  • PCB Max. Dimension 510*590mm
  • Board Thickness 0.6-2.5mm
  • Dimension Tolerance ±0.2mm
  • Min. hole size 0.2mm
  • Outer Copper Weight 35um/70um/105um
  • Inner Copper Weight 0.5OZ/1OZ
• Please have a look at the below table, for few more features:

Why NextPCB ?

We have discussed almost everything about NextPCB i.e. what they offer, what are there packages and whether they have the capabilities to handle bulk orders. So, now let's have a look at why we should select NextPCB:

• As it's a fabrication house so they can provide you both simple PCBs or complete PCB assembly.
• Their manufacturing materials are highly certified, as I mentioned in the start, thus they offer various verification methods i.e.
  • X-Ray.
  • In-Circuit.
  • Optical.
  • Visual.
  • Functional.
• They have a team of professional engineers, who performs all these testings on your PCB or PCBA and thus provides you the best result.

I hope I have provided a detailed overview of NextPCB, and now you must have the idea why I am so impressed by their services. So, that was all for today, will meet you guys in next tutorial. Take care !!!

Top PCB Designing Software in 2020

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. In today’s tutorial, we will have a look at Top PCB Designing Software in 2020. The printed circuit board has become very common to us from your handheld device like mobile to GPS (global positioning system) this circuit board is used. There are many types of the printed circuit board, that used in different electronic and engineering projects according to their specifications. Due to the general use of this circuitry board, there are many software has been developed for designing of PCB. These software provide different features and designing techniques for printed circuit board production. In today's post, we will have a look at different PCB designing software and features and related parameters. So let's get started with Top PCB Designing Software in 2020.

Top PCB Designing Software in 2020

• There are numerous designing software available in the market to design and construct PCB. These software provider companies offer different techniques for PCB and customer can also give information according to their requirements.

• According to your circuit requirements for which you are using PCB, the circuit board can be constructed like single layer, double layer, etc.
• These are some PCB designing software are listed here.
  • Allegro Cadence
  • PADS
  • OrCAD
  • Kicad
  • Altium Designer
• Let's discuss these software with details and discuss their features, advantages, and disadvantages.

PCBWay

• PCBWay is very cost-effective and high-quality PCB manufacturer, its headquarter is located in china.

• The main thing that attracts me to use the services of this manufacturer is, it provides PCB prototyping, less volume production and PCBA all in one package.
• Nowadays there are many engineers, industries and students are using PCB in their projects manufactured by the PCBway I am also one of them. You can see in a given figure the PCB that I purchased from PCBWay.

• I am impressed with the quality of the boards, the delivery time and response to all my questions. Best price excellent service and speedy delivery. When I need another board I will certainly use this supplier.
• PCBWay strives to be the easiest manufacturer for you to work with. PCBWay – PCB Prototype the Easy Way!
• The main products provided by the PCBWay are HDMI, Server board, lift CPU Main control board, punch CPU,

  Industrial Motherboard, Lenovo, DSP board, GPRS Communication Products, wifi Module.

Allegro Cadence

• This PCB designing software provides a lot of features for the printed circuit board construction. This software has a lot of units that are linked to one another.
• Every unit sport the operation of other unit operation, in simple words working of every part, rely on other parts.
• This software is not good to observe the hardware execution needs. But can operate well in if used in different machines with the five hundred twelve megabytes random access memory.

• If your personal computer or that you using for your work is a single option than the Allegro is the finest option for your computer.

Advantages

• These are some benefits of Allegro Cadence software.
• It is the best choice for less execution hardware.
• This software is used to solve the complicated projects designed on PCB.
• It is used for such projects that use large no of components.
• It also offers compatible management environment.
• For auto-routing of arbitrary signals, it offers router technology

Disadvantages

• Its one drawback is that its operation is complicated and require special arrangements for operation.

 PADS

• One of the cheapest and easily available printed circuit board designing software is Pads.
• It is the best option for such technicians and designer that run their small company on their behalf and for a group of some designers.
• The main thing is that almost all small organization use this designing software for the PCB, due its less cost.

Advantages

• These are some advantages of Pads software.
• Its price is very less as compared to other designing software.
• Its installation and usage are also very easy.

• In operation is very simple you can easily lean it
• If we compare with other less cost designing software then it will be the best solution for you.

Disadvantages

• Its drawback is that it is not good for multiple layers of circuit boards.

OrCAD

• This software offers fundamental functions and capacities required for the designing of different printed circuit board projects.
• But such projects that have large dimensions and complicated design not use this software.
• The standards of this software offer complete functions for the uncomplicated circuit boards without particular conditions for placing speed signals or differential pairs.
• The main feature this software provides is that complicated higher operating speed printed circuit board cand be manufactured without any separate functions.

Advantage

• These are some advantage of this software.
• The installation and uses of this software are very simple.
• It offers a favourable user interface.

Disadvantage

• It is not helpful for complicated and large sizer projects.

Kicad Software

• This software is used C++ language for its operation. This software has numerous tools and services for designing the printed circuit board.
• This software also consists of various libraries that have many electronic components.
• This software has the ability to uses these electronic components to make three-dimensional models.
• By using this software you can design different dimensions of circuits according to your requirements.
• It also provides a feature to vary the design of a circuit at any point from start to end.
• Its quality is less than more advanced or paid software but still enough that we can easily understand it, but the three-dimensional formats like .iges and * .step  are not supported by this software.
• By providing different features it has some difficulties like it is difficult to understand and need special documentation for learning.

Advantages

• These are some advantages of this software.
• it is the best option for less performance hardware.
• It provides the edit options for designing.
• It is free software.
• In this software, we can construct our design in three dimensions way.

Disadvantages

• These are some drawback of this software.
• It is not good for complicated designing.
• it provides a non-friendly user interface.

Altium Designer (PROTEL)

• This printed circuit board software is the oldest designing software, using from almost the last thirty years.
• This software with time become etalons different electronic designing tools and provides different features to other manufacturers.
• Nowadays this software providing a more advanced solution known as Altium Designer. Having older features it also providing new features to customers.
• Many engineering universities teaching about this software, how to use it and its practical implementation.

Advantages

• These are some advantages of this software.
• It is the best software for single and double layer PCB boards.
• Its operation is high speed.

Disadvantage

• The use of this software for such PCB that has more than four layers.

That's all about Top PCB Designing Software in 2020 if have mentioned each and everything related to this article. If you have any question ask in comments. Thanks for reading.

3 Engineering Gadgets To Invest In This Year

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, we will have a look at 3 Engineering Gadgets To Invest In This Year. At present, there are more than 1.6 million engineers employed in the USA, according to the U.S.  Bureau of Labor Statistics. As we become increasingly reliant on technology, engineers will become progressively more important, and more students will study towards a suitable qualification. Although the engineering field is immensely diverse, there is one thing that every engineer is in need of – a set of useful tools and gadgets to help them solve problems, create prototypes, create advanced technologies, and even explore new worlds. Here is a closer look at three  engineering gadgets well worth investing in this year.

Flexible borescopes are surprisingly versatile

A flexible borescope gives an engineer  visual access to remote areas that are normally unreachable by both hand and eye. They are ideal for troubleshooting problems before spending unnecessary time (and money) on opening up a machine or engine. At present, some of the most common borescope applications include aircraft turbines, large diesel engines, wind turbines, bearings and gearboxes, heat exchangers and boilers, and electronic assemblies. Rigid borescopes are also being increasingly used in arms manufacturing, quality assurance inspections, and routine maintenance inspections, making them the perfect addition to any engineering toolkit. While the market is slowly becoming inundated with a range of borescope brands, it is essential to not part with any money unless you have conducted sufficient research into the various makes and models available and what each brings to the table. Flexible borescopes can have a price tag of anywhere between $100 and $60,000, all depending on their features and durability.

Pocket oscilloscopes are ideal for engineers on the go

Although benchtop oscilloscopes feature in most engineering labs, an increasing number of engineers and engineering students are embracing the value of a portable tool. Portable oscilloscopes are typically equipped with built-in batteries that eliminate the need of an external power supply. They are, obviously, a lot smaller than their desktop counterparts, making them the tool of choice for the engineer on the go. When looking for a quality pocket oscilloscope, seek out one that is not only sturdy but boasts a varied range of features as well. Apart from responding exceptionally well to touch and taking precise measurements, an investment-worthy device will also boast various menus and measurement modes, despite often being as  small as a deck of cards. Pocket oscilloscopes typically retail for anywhere between $100 and $1,000.

3D printers brought on a sea of change

3D printers are still considered to be one of the most innovative pieces of engineering equipment available today, despite dating back all the way to 1983. Despite being in existence for nearly 40 years, these printers remain somewhat of a novelty to many. For engineers, however, 3D printers have become a staple tool that enables them to create models, prototypes, and various products out of materials including metal and plastic. Prior to the wide-spread use of this technology, engineers often had great difficulty conveying the potential of their product design to potential clients. While industrial 3D printers are being used increasingly in manufacturing centers, smaller desk-top printers are ideal for in-office or at-home use. Regardless of the branch of engineering you are involved in, you will be in need of a range of tools. Having the right tools on hand will not only make your job easier, but will also allow you to develop your skills on an ongoing basis.

PCB vs Breadboard

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. In today’s tutorial, we will have a look at PCB vs Breadboard. For the production of electronic engineering projects and electric circuits, numerous circuit board are used but the most common are PCB (printed circuit board) and breadboard. In printed circuit board there are different conductive layers of copper are designed for the construction of different circuits. Base material that also named as a substrate is created with the epoxy resin or fibreglass. Copper layers are designed on this substrate material and symbols of different components are also drawn on this for so easily circuit can be constructed. While in breadboard arrangments like PCB are not exists, and no permanent circuit can be made on it. The main benefit of the breadboard is that it can also be used for other circuits. But in PCB it is difficult to make it reusable. The breadboard name is given to this board due to its bread-like structure. In today's post, we will have a look at PCB and breadboard with the detailed and compare their different parameters. So let's get started with PCB vs Breadboard.

PCB vs Breadboard

What is PCB?

• PCB stands for printed circuit board this circuitry board is used in different electronic projects, devices like mobile, computer, etc.
• This board has many types like single-sided PCB, double-sided PCB, multilayer PCB, according to requirements of project and circuits.

• This circuitry board is manufactured with the fibreglass, a resultant module is known as a base on which different layers of copper are made to create circuits.
• Different electronic components symbols like a capacitor, resistance, ICs, etc are designed on these conductive layers do make a connection.
• The printed circuit board is used in different medical instruments like an X-ray machine, computed tomography, etc.

PCBWay

• PCBWay provides less cost and high quality printed circuit board. The headquarter of this famous PCB manufacturer is located in China but its services available all over the world.

• Its most important features that urge me to use the services of this PCB manufacturer are, it provides PCB prototyping, less volume production and PCBA all in one packaging.
• Almost every technician, an engineering student, electrical and electronic industries using PCB board manufactured by this PCB producer. You can see in a given figure the PCB that I purchased from PCBWay.

• I am impressed with the quality of the boards, the delivery time and response to all my questions. Best price excellent service and speedy delivery. When I need another board I will certainly use this supplier.
• PCBWay strives to be the easiest manufacturer for you to work with. PCBWay – PCB Prototype the Easy Way!
• The main products manufactured by the PCBWay are HDMI, Server board, lift CPU Main control board, punch CPU, Industrial Motherboard, Lenovo, DSP board, GPRS Communication Products, wifi Module.

What is Breadboard?

• The breadboard is such a circuitry board for which there is no need of solder device like a printed circuit board. That makes it effective for use more than on time.
• In this board, there are numerous holes that are connected electrically with one another, components of circuitry are placed in these holes for circuit connections.

Breadboard Working

• As we discussed earlier that we can use breadboard again and again for circuit creation. For circuit construction, we draw a sketch of that circuit and make connections of circuits according to designing.

• There are two types of hole assembly at the surface of breadboard in centre two central layers of holes exits that have five holes in one column and at ends side, different holes are exits that used for input supply and power connection.
• This board is best choice for such circuits that used integrated circuits, these ICs have a large number of pins so breadboard is the finest choice for them.

Advantages of Breadboard

• These are some benefits of breadboard that make effective over the PCB.
• Its main benefit is that if some connection is not according to circuit requirements than we can easily change it according to requirements.
• The construction of different circuits is very easy as no fixed connection need for the layout of circuit.
• After making one circuit we want to add or replace some components we can do it very easily.
•  We can connect current meter for the for current measurement at any branch of circuitry, but in printed circuit board first, we need to remove a connection of circuitry than add resistance for calculation of current.

Advantages of PCB

• These are some benefits of PCB over breadboard.
• The circuit designed on this board for a long time and can be used in different electronic devices for circuit manufacturing.
• In the printed circuit board large amount of current can pass as compared to breadboard, we can draw current paths for large current requirements.
• We can also construct different points for exterior components linkage.

• We can also connect heat absorber on this board to reduce the heating during circuit operation.
• This circuit board is more common to use in different engineering projects breadboard.
• Due to open wiring system on the breadboard, it looks complicated but conductive paths are designed on the PCB board so its circuit construction is very simple.
• The connection on the board is very easy to understand on a printed circuit board while it not possible in a breadboard.

Should you use a PCB or a Breadboard?

• Both of these board printed circuit board and breadboard has their own limitations and benefits that define where to use them. So let's discuss them one by one.

When to use a Breadboard?

• The creation of circuits on this board is not permanent so it can be used for testing of different circuits before making them permanent.
• These board can also be used for such circuits where less amount of current is required.

When to use a PCB?

•  The printed circuit board is used in different circuits and electronic devices. After performing tests of different circuits on the breadboard we can design different projects on this board.
• So it widely used in different electronic devices and instruments.

That is the detailed tutorial on PCB vs Breadboard, I have mentioned each and everything related to both of these board. Also, discuss these uses, advantage and disadvantage and disadvantage. If You have any question about these board ask in comment. Thanks for the next tutorial.

Guidelines for Writing an excellent Homework Paper

For most university students in Australia, dealing with all their homework is difficult. Australian universities have a very good reputation as education and research institutions. However, to get a degree from one of these universities, students have to work hard. And doing many assignments is part of this hard work. This is why many students entertain the idea of paying for help when they have a difficult assignment. Some students would like to ask someone to “do my assignment for me Australia, please.” You can pay to Assigncode to get a paper that you can use as an example to do your homework. This is a good solution when you do not know how to start writing. It is much easier to write a difficult assignment when you have some guidelines. Writing from scratch requires advanced writing skills. Some students lack such skills. It is fine. In such a case, paying for help is legit. An experienced writer can write for you a paper about difficult topics like math or physics. This company hires writers with proven experience and education to do your assignments with good quality. If you pay for help, you must get the service you deserve. This is not a problem with this company. They have a very professional approach. They do their best to ensure all students are satisfied with the papers they get. Besides good writing, the writer in charge of your order will include different math examples when it is necessary. For example, algebra equations, statistics, and other technical content can be included upon request. Do not worry. All the writers can craft a technically sound paper for you. Thus, do not hesitate to contact this company and ask, can you help me to do my homework?”

What if Submission Deadline is Short?

Yes, you can trust on Assigncode as it's a reliable company. This company offers several guarantees to make your experience with it more satisfactory. The following are some of them:

• Punctual delivery. You can count on your paper for the date and time that you agreed with the writer. This is a guarantee. This company has managed to deliver 98.35% of all its orders on time;
• Affordable prices. In most cases, prices are flexible and you can find very cheap deals. A technical paper for the undergraduate level usually commands a price of $29 a page with a 240-hour deadline. Prices increase if the deadline is shorter. Hence, you can save some money by placing your order with a reasonable deadline. Do not wait until the last moment to ask for help;
• Experienced writers. This company hires former professors and researchers in AU to help students with their homework. Currently, the company has 324 active writers. Their expertise covers several technical disciplines. These experts are recruited through a very selective process that tests their different skills.

Place an order. You can count on your paper on the date you need it. Moreover, it will be done according to your specifications. There are some other advantages to using the service by Assigncode. One of them is privacy and confidentiality. Most students do not want anybody else knows that they paid for help with their assignments. As mentioned previously, this service is legit. There is nothing wrong with it. Unfortunately, many professors still frown on this type of assignment help service. Do not worry. This company has a very strict data protection policy. All the information you provide while placing an order is confidential. The company will use this information to complete your paper according to your needs. However, the information will never be shared with others outside the writer. Hence, you can confidently ask this company, “please, help me to do my assignment.” Whenever you say to yourself, “I need some help with my technical assignment,” contact this company. You can contact the 24/7 customer support. You can give them a call and discuss the paper you need. Or you can write them a message with the title “help me, please.” Placing an order online is not difficult. First, you have to create a personal account. You fill out an order form with the details about the paper that you need and some writers will contact you. You will be able to choose the writer that you deem most convenient. Then, you will get the paper you asked for.

Efficiency? Meet HVAC – The Air Conditioning Revolution

Hello everyone, I hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, we will have a look at the Air Conditioning revolution brought by HVAC. Air conditioning is a mainstream engineering wonder, and much of the world relies on their HVAC for comfort and day-to-day living. Unfortunately, as a study in the Journal of Energy and Buildings found, HVAC systems come with a high environmental cost amounting to 40% of energy consumption in all residential sectors. This comes chiefly from heat transfer, but also from air cleaning processes and lost energy. Clearly, huge efficiencies need to be found in the HVAC/air conditioning sector – and innovation is providing.

The air we breathe

A large component of the inefficiency of HVAC is through the air filtration it undertakes. As outlined by Consumer Reports, air purifiers have a high energy cost when run consistently – and HVAC will often have them running throughout the year. Technology often achieves progress through miniaturization, and the same is true with HVAC. New 16x20x1 air filters and similar configurations work with HEPA technology to provide air filtration in a more efficient and less cumbersome way than current filter types. This means less need for strong airflow, less work for the HVAC system, and less energy input overall – meaning a more environmentally friendly solution.

The heat exchange

The other energy-costly component of HVAC is heat exchange. New innovation could lead to a huge overhaul in how this process is conducted. This, in turn, will lead to more efficiency and a lower carbon footprint for HVAC systems. A report by Brown University in Phys.org outlined the use of an organic solvent that could help to rapidly convert water temperatures, boosting heat transfer capacity by 500%. This means that the energy requirements of HVAC systems can be vastly reduced. While work remains to be done to achieve the engineering framework required to make this work, it is “on its way.” Noting that other methods, such as antiparticle additives, are about a 10 ^th as effective as this, Phys.org reckon that these new methods of operating the internal systems of an HVAC could have a transformative effect on the energy requirements of the industry – if mass produced.

Moving away from HVAC

What about other methods for cooling the air? Increasingly, airflow management in new build homes is being developed through integrated engineering. The Harvard HouseZero eschews the use of expensive HVAC in favour of low-energy integrated sensors within the home that can detect and calculate how best to address heat fluctuations. Using sophisticated air modeling and flow algorithms, it might open a window in a seemingly unrelated part of the home to cool a different room, and close it for the converse. Smart engineering may ultimately render the need for HVAC unnecessary, as homes can be effectively conditioned using only warm (or cold) outside airflow. For the time being, however, HVAC is king, and finding efficiencies within its build will be important to maintain comfort while tackling climate change. Fortunately, there is clearly a lot going on already. This is the case, whether it be in simple replacement of inefficient filters or micro-scale heat exchange engineering.

How To Stay Calm During A Complicated Project

Taking a break from work might seem like a burden, but no matter how much you love your job or believe that you are the only one who is capable of doing it, it’s important to give your body and your mind a break. Sometimes people get so caught up in their work that they forget to take a moment to recharge.

A break can be beneficial to those who work long hours or to those who work seven days a week. Some might see a break as a time to kick-back and watch work flow by, but relaxing can provide an uptick in motivation, creativity, and productivity. Everyone relaxes in their own way: some people exercise and some meditate. Regardless of your method, it’s important to have something that takes your mind off your job. There’s an assortment of ways to stay relaxed during stressful projects.

Stay Active

Work can be extremely stressful on the mind, but it can also take a toll on the body. Science has proven that one of the best ways to combat stress and the symptoms that go along with it is with exercise.

Exercising also changes the brain in ways that protect memory and improve critical thinking skills. Researchers have found that regular aerobic exercise appears to boost the size of the hippocampus. The hippocampus is the brain area involved in verbal memory and learning. On top of improving the brain’s functionality, exercising also improves sleep and reduces stress and anxiety. All of these areas lead to positive work output. No matter what industry you work in, whether you specialize in contract management or industrial engineering, exercising improves all human bodies and therefore improves the work functionality of any employee.

Meditation

Another way to relax that has gained immense popularity over the past decade is meditation. To improve your ability to meditate try using Nag Champa incense, which has a great history of high-quality products. It seems like every week a new study emerges to illustrate a new benefit of meditation. Researchers all over the world, including some from prestigious institutions, are studying meditation’s benefits and the results are widespread. Similar to exercising, meditation reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, improves the brain’s functionality, and helps our overall psychological well-being. Another benefit of meditation is the improvements to concentration and attention. Since the strong focus of attention is one of the central aims of meditation, it shouldn’t be surprising that meditation helps people achieve better focus at their jobs. There are many types of meditation, so it’s important to hop on a search engine and figure out which meditation method is best for you.

Relaxing Is Important

Complicated projects can cause workers mental and physical pain. There are many ways to prevent this pain from happening in the first place. Methods like consistent exercise, meditation etc. usage all show promising benefits to the human body. It’s important to research them, read about their application, and figure out which, if any, fit best into your lifestyle. It’s also important to treat your body and mind with care, especially when work is coming down on you the hardest.

Market Your Business With Text To Speech Technology

Marketing is the cornerstone of any business. Yet, so many business owners struggle to find new and innovative ways to promote their business to potential consumers. In an ever-evolving economy, marketing your endeavor is going to involve plenty of thinking outside the box. We no longer live in a world were a simple ad-campaign or coupon promotion is enough to drive eyeballs to a site or feet through the door. If you’ve been looking for new ways to market your business without breaking the bank, there is one new method you should try: text to speech technology. Not only is it one of the freshest ways to market your business, but it is one of the most affordable. Let’s take a look at how text to speech technology can be used to market your business. There is much online text to speech converter to choose from, let’s examine how to put them to work.

Convert Text to an Mp3

While not available through all online text to speech platforms, many give you the option to convert any text to an Mp3. Why is this useful? Text to speech is useful to both website owners and those consuming the content you upload. With text to speech, you can convert text as often as you want with zero limitations. This is helpful because it maximizes the overall accessibility of your site. Suddenly, even those with learning disabilities or impairments can access your content. In addition to providing options for those with disabilities, text to speech also makes it easy for you to cater to potential customers who speak a different language. Many of these people understand spoken words, but they cannot read written content. With this tool in hand, any customer, regardless of native language, can understand what you’re selling or what your site is all about. The ability to convert the text to an Mp3 gives the user the option to read and examine content on the go. That’s a win-win!

Cater to All Age Groups

Make no mistake, the older generations love to shop just as much as millennials. Unfortunately, those above a certain age may have a hard time adjusting to the new fast-paced digital world. Some of them don’t know how to surf the web at all. Others have a very basic understanding. Text to speech is a tool that makes it easy for seniors to understand your content without having to do much leg work. It is basically a marketing campaign that works for itself. All you have to do is provide the text to speech capacity and your words or products will do the leg work for you.

Engage Users With Different Backgrounds

Believe it or not, many folks in more rural areas still suffer from illiteracy, at no fault of their own. Lack of educational opportunities or therapies can make it difficult for those who are illiterate to make strides toward literacy. With text to speech, those people no longer feel alienated. Despite their setbacks, many do have a basic knowledge of reading and writing. Unfortunately, they find it hard to browse websites due to all the text-based information. This leads to feelings of shame and may lead to them clicking off-page. When you include text to speech on your site, these folks can take in the content and browse the site as they deserve to. You can open up your doors to customers and let people know that you’re all about accessibility.

The Takeaway

Digital marketing firms and businesses need to realize that there is more than one way to present an idea. Some people can’t process huge amounts of text information. Others, simply don’t want to. With text to speech, you give users the opportunity to ingest your content on their own terms. With an added audio converter, any site user can get through large blocks of text-based information with total ease. Make your content more appealing and accessible, you’ll find an uptick in site visitors and those who simply like what you’re doing!

Introduction to Control Systems

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. Today, I am going to start this new tutorial series on Control Systems. I will start from the very basics and will slowly move towards complex concepts. I'll not only cover the theoretical control systems, but will also focus on their practical implementation. Throughout this tutorial series, I will use MATLAB software (where required) to solve & plot different features of control systems.

As it's our first tutorial, so today, we will have a look at a detailed Introduction to Control systems. Before starting with technical details, I would like to simplify things, by first providing the basic concept of a Control System. So, let's get started:

Introduction to Control Systems

• A system, whose output can be managed, controlled or regulated by varying its input is called Control System.
• If we look around, we will find many control systems in our surroundings i.e. Refrigerator, Air Conditions, Washing Machines etc.

• A control system can also be a combination of smaller control systems and is normally used to get desired/required output.
• Its block diagram is shown in the below figure:

• The above figure represents a simple control system and we can think of this control system as a mathematical equation i.e.

 X + 5 = Y

where, X is input, Y is output and Constant 5 is acting as a Control System.

• So, by changing the value of the input parameter ( X ), we can change our output value (Y).
• Similarly, if we want a particular output value, we can achieve it by fixing the input value.

Real Life Example of a Control System

As I have mentioned earlier, we are literally surrounded by control systems, these days. Keeping this simple, let's have a look at the example of a smart fan, which regulates its spinning speed with respect to atmospheric temperature.

• A pre-installed Temperature sensor reads the temperature, which is then fed into Comparator.
• The comparator compares current temperature with user-inputted temperature value and then regulates the Fan speed.

Hence the input parameter i.e. temperature helped us in changing the system's output i.e. Spinning Speed. Below is the block diagram for representing the control system of a smart fan:

Now I hope that you can quite easily find different control systems in your surroundings. Now let's have a look at Main two Types of Control Systems:

Types of Control Systems

Control Systems are classified into two main categories, which are:

• Open Loop.
• Closed Loop.

Let's discuss them one by one, in detail:

Open Loop Control System

• In Open Loop Control Systems, we have three main components i.e. Input, Controller & Output.
• Input signal is directly fed to the controller, which utilizes it and generates the required output.
• In Open Loop systems, generated output has no affect on the Input signal i.e. no feedback provided.

Example

Here we will be discussing two examples of open loop control systems, to get a better understanding of the process.

Clothes Dryer is a very simple example of an open loop system. When damp clothes are put in the dryer machine, the operator/user sets the time for drying the clothes. This time acts as the input signal for the dryer. Correspondingly at the end of that time, the machine stops and clothes can be taken out. Now the thing to be noted here is that no matter if the clothes are dry enough or not, the machine will stop because of the time (input signal) fed to it. So the output of the system does not affect the input in this case. For a better understanding the block diagram of a cloth dryer control system is shown below:

Traffic Light system is another easy-to-understand example of an open loop system. Certain input signals are fed to the controller, which then displays one of the three lights at the output turn by turn. The direct input signals can be altered to change the output light but the output has no affect on the input. As we are not passing any feedback i.e. which light turned ON or OFF.

Closed Loop Control System

• Closed Loop Control System (Feedback control system) is an advanced automated system, which generates the desired output by using inputs, Controllers and feedback elements.
• These systems use feedback elements to fed the Output back to the controller. By doing that, we can compare the current output with input to get errors.
• Here's the block diagram of a Closed Loop Control System:

The block diagram above is an excellent representation of a closed loop control system. As seen, the system output is being fed back to the controller through an error detector. The function of the error detector is to find the difference in the input and output signal, and feed this difference to the controller so that the output can be adjusted. In this way, the system output is being automatically adjusted all the time with the help of the feedback signal and the operator does not have to worry about it.

Example

The air conditioner is a very typical example of a closed loop control system. The input signal in the form of required room temperature is fed into the controller of the air conditioner. The compressor along with its various electrical and mechanical components helps in achieving the required temperature. Now, whenever the room temperature changes, the temperature sensor at the output senses the change in the room temperature and the signal from the sensor is calculated by the error detector and fed back to the controller through the feedback loop to maintain the required room temperature. In this way, the required output is always maintained automatically without any manual interference. The block diagram illustration of this process is shown below:

Pros and Cons of Open and Closed loop

• It must have been cleared by now that wherever an accurate and precise system is required, feedback closed-loop control system is the answer, as they provide the feedback and thus automatically reduces the error while open loop control systems are not reliable enough to provide an accurate output.
• However another thing to be kept in mind here is the cost of the system. More precision and complexity mean a greater cost. So closed-loop control systems are clearly more expensive than open loop control systems. Open loop control systems are cheaper and cost effective.
• Last but not the least, Open loop control systems are also simpler to design as compared to closed loop control systems.

So, fellows, this was all about Open and closed loop control systems. I hope things are much clearer now and we can move to another set of classification of the control systems.

SISO and MIMO Control Systems

Control systems are also classified into these two categories, named as:

• SIngle Input Single Output systems. (SISO)
• Multiple Input Multiple Output systems. (MISO)

SISO, as the name suggests, is a simple control system which has a single input signal and give out a single output signal. They are easy to design/implement and are used for most basic applications due to their Input/output simplicity. MIMO, as the name indicates, are complex types of control systems having multiple input signals triggering the system controller and in return generating multiple system outputs. These are larger and complex systems used in industrial applications mostly, which require a series of outputs.

Examples of SISO and MIMO Control Systems:

A fan speed control is a very common example of a Single Input Single Output system. A single input in terms of voltage is supplied to the system which in turn results in the fan working. On the other hand, a Radio system is a typical example of a Multiple Inputs Multiple Outputs system. A combination of Input signals is applied and transmitted over multiple lines to produce the required communication signals at the output. So this was all about SISO and MIMO control systems. The concept is pretty much basic but the same statement cannot be true for their applications. They are very versatile and at the same time very much used around us in our daily lives. So being done with these for now, I think it's time to move on to another interesting classification of the control systems.

Continuous and Discrete Time Control System

Before discussing the continuous and discrete time control system, it is important to understand the concept of a continuous time signal and a discrete time signal:

• A continuous time signal refers to a signal, which is continuous in the time domain.
• On the other hand, when a signal is discrete in the time domain, i.e. it can be obtained at discrete time intervals, it is called a discrete time signal.

The figure below represents continuous and discrete-time signals and will help you understand the concept much better.

So now coming towards the continuous-time control system and a discrete-time control system:

• As we know the difference, the only thing needed to understand is that in a continuous time control system, all the signals (including the input & output signals) are continuous in time.
• Whereas in a discrete time control system, all the signals of the control system (including the input and output signals) are discrete time signals.

So guys, this was all about the basics of control systems today. This topic is very elaborate including the different types of controllers and their design and everything, but I have tried to keep it simple and introductory as per the topic's name. For an in depth study of control systems and their controller design, stay tuned with this control systems tutorial by email. In the next lecture, we will have a look at the detailed Introduction to Transfer Functions. For now, I'm hoping that this would prove helpful for your basic concept and understanding. Till next tutorial, take care & have fun !!! :)