Specifications

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programmer. He is also the only group member with experience in setting up a
web server therefore he is best fit for that responsibility as well. The web server
is an extremely important part of the project because it is what allows the LCD
control panel to be viewed and manipulated remotely from a mobile device. Our
sponsors have repeatedly informed us that this is one of the most important
application features of all the requirements they have given our group.
Andrew‟s primary responsibility is wireless communication within the HVAC
control system. We are using a ZigBee wireless protocol (802.15.4) to
communicate between remote sensing units and the main control unit. Our
sponsors have specified they want as much wireless communication as possible
in order to keep the system easy to install and avoid having to install new wires in
a preexisting building. The temperature and relative humidity data that is
measured must be transmitted to indoor and outdoor sensors so that it is
important to make sure this data is accurate and not distorted in any way. Also,
dampers must be controlled wirelessly to direct air flow through the air ducts to
introduce new air into the system. A wireless signal must be sent from the main
control unit to control 24V AC relays to direct airflow how the user prefers
according to the specified conditions set at the control unit.
Cory‟s main responsibility is integration of microcontrollers into the system along
with Project Budgeting and Financing Goals for the project. The microcontrollers
are the main “brain” of the system and have overall control of the system. This is
obviously an important part as it will be the chief decision maker. The main
microcontroller will make the decision of which units to turn on and what is
necessary to meet the requirements set by the user. Cory is also responsible for
the communication between the main microcontroller and the user interface. He
must make sure that the microcontroller understands what the user is touching
on the LCD and that it responds accurately. The Project Budgeting and
Financing is important to both the group and the sponsor so that both parties
know the budget requirement is being met and that if the group buys parts with
out of pocket money they are reimbursed. An Excel spreadsheet will be kept
during the design and build processes to keep track of this information. Figure 2
below is a flowchart to describe the each group member‟s responsibilities
pertaining to the Senior Design 1 paper.