Personal project proposals/ideas.

Internet Radio

Summary - An embedded device capable of streaming audio available from free internet radio stations (Last-FM, Shoutcast etc...), allowing the user to listen to such stations without the use of a pc.

Requirements

• 802.11 wireless compatibility.
• Suitable Microcontroller (PIC 18F, Parallax Propellor...)
• TCP/IP stack (Open source or custom implementation)
• TCP/IP support. Within microcontroller or external IC, e.g. ENC28J60.
• MP3/Audio Decoder. E.g. VLSI VS1011.
• Audio amplifier.
• External buffer memory.
• Simple user interface.

Expansion

• Ethernet connectivity (Xport?)
• OLED/LCD Display
• Remote updates (Firmware via FTP?)
• Built-in power amplifier.
• External memory expansion (SD Card etc) and the ability to download songs.

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Motorbike 'Radar' Safety System

Summary - A device mounted to motorcycles that alerts the rider of potential hidden dangers. The ever-increasing range of UHF RFID technology currently allows tags to be scanned up to distances of 30 metres away. Incorporating the ability to scan for tags, as well as calculate there distance and angle, it is possible to effectively produce an RFID 'radar'. By placing RFID tags on vehicles, a rider approaching an obstructed junction would be alerted of vehicles waiting to pull out.

Requirements

• A compact RFID 'Radar' unit for mounting on a motorcycle.
• A small and cheap Tag, to be placed on vehicles (Passive?)
• A clear screen alerting the motorcyclist of potential dangers.

Expansion

• Vehicle positions could be overlaid onto a GPS map.
• Audible warning tones within the motorcyclists helmet.
• System activation only at key danger zones (Junctions, blind corners etc)