Yhills is inviting you to join us as we discover the hidden world of embedded systems and discover the incredible impact they have on our daily lives.

Learn about the embedded systems that control all the functions of your car and discover how they are in the process of taking over more domestic appliances.

• According to Frontiers, Embedded system design courses can be evaluated and measured by analyzing students’ learning readiness before studying the course. 
• According to Total Phase, Embedded systems are used in a variety of everyday applications, from safety systems to providing goods and services. 

“Embedded systems are the invisible workhorses that make our modern world possible” – Jack Ganssle

Embedded systems are the unsung heroes of technology, powering the devices and systems that make our lives easier and more convenient. From smartphones to cars, medical equipment to industrial machines, embedded systems are at the heart of it all. 

In this blog, we will explore the world of embedded systems, delving into their key features, applications, and the latest trends and developments in this exciting field. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an engineer, or just curious about embedded systems, this blog will provide valuable insights and information. 

So join us as we discover the hidden world of embedded systems and discover the incredible impact they have on our daily lives.

Examples of Embedded Systems

Automatic teller machines (ATMs) 

Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are embedded systems that are used in banks and other financial institutions to allow customers to withdraw cash, check account balances, and perform other transactions. These systems are connected to a bank’s database and use a combination of hardware, software, and communication technologies to enable customers to access their accounts and perform transactions. ATMs are widely used around the world and have become an integral part of everyday life for many people.

Additionally, embedded systems are used to connect the ATM to the bank’s network, which enables the ATM to communicate with other systems in the bank, such as the core banking system and the security system. This allows for real-time transactions and efficient management of the bank’s operation.

Traffic lights 

Traffic lights are embedded systems that are used to control the timing and sequence of traffic lights at intersections, ensuring that vehicles and pedestrians can safely cross the road.

These systems use sensors, processors, and communication technologies to detect the presence of vehicles and pedestrians and to determine when to change the light from red to green or from green to red. Traffic lights are an important part of our transportation infrastructure and help to keep roads safe for all users.

Smartphones 

Smartphones are a prime example of embedded systems in action. These devices use a variety of embedded systems to control and monitor various functions, such as making phone calls, sending text messages, and accessing the internet.

The brain of a smartphone is the system-on-a-chip (SoC) which is an embedded system that integrates all the components of the phone, such as the processor, memory, and wireless communication modules, into a single chip. The SoC uses embedded systems to process and execute instructions, such as running apps and providing access to the internet.

Elevators 

Elevators are another example of embedded systems in action. Modern elevators use a variety of embedded systems to control and monitor various functions, such as moving the elevator up and down, opening and closing the doors, and communicating with the elevator’s control system.

The heart of an elevator system is the controller, which is an embedded system that receives input from sensors and buttons inside the elevator and uses that information to control the elevator’s movement and operation. The controller uses embedded systems to process the data and make decisions, such as determining the best way to move the elevator based on the number of passengers and the floor they want to go to.

Automatic washing machines 

Automatic washing machines are embedded systems that are used to control the timing and sequence of the wash cycle, ensuring that clothes are washed effectively and efficiently.

These systems use sensors, processors, and communication technologies to detect the type and amount of laundry being washed and to determine the appropriate wash cycle and settings. Automatic washing machines are widely used in households around the world and help to make laundry easier and more convenient.

Home thermostats 

A home thermostat is an example of an embedded system, which is a combination of computer hardware and software that performs a specific function or set of functions within a larger device or system.

In the case of a home thermostat, the embedded system controls the heating and cooling of a home by monitoring the temperature and adjusting the HVAC system accordingly. The thermostat typically includes a microcontroller, which is a small computer that runs the embedded software, as well as sensors and other hardware components that allow it to gather information about the temperature and control the HVAC system.

With the advancement of technology, now many thermostats are designed to be connected to a home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing users to control them remotely via a smartphone app or web interface.

Automatic gates 

An automatic gate is a type of embedded system that uses a combination of computer hardware and software to control the opening and closing of a gate, typically at the entrance of a driveway or private road. The embedded system in an automatic gate typically includes a microcontroller, which is a small computer that runs the embedded software, as well as sensors, actuators, and other hardware components that allow it to gather information about the gate’s position and control its movement. 

Some automatic gates also include features such as automatic closing, obstacle detection, and automatic opening in case of power failure. Automatic gates can also be integrated with other security systems such as CCTV cameras, alarms, and intercoms.

Automatic sprinkler systems 

An automatic sprinkler system is a type of irrigation system that uses a network of underground pipes and valves, connected to a central control unit, to automatically water lawns, gardens, and other landscaped areas. These systems can be controlled by an embedded system, a computer system built into a larger device or machine. The embedded system in an automatic sprinkler system typically includes a microcontroller or microprocessor, sensors, and actuators.

One of the key advantages of using an embedded system in an automatic sprinkler system is that it allows for precise and efficient control of the watering. For example, the system can be programmed to water only when the soil moisture is low, or to adjust the watering schedule based on weather forecasts. 

Additionally, embedded systems can be connected to other systems, such as home automation systems, which allow users to control the sprinkler system remotely.

Automatic door locks 

Automatic door locks are embedded systems that control the movement of door locks, allowing only authorized people to enter a building or room. These systems use sensors, processors, and communication technologies to detect the presence of authorized individuals and to unlock the door for them.

Automatic door locks are commonly used in residential and commercial settings to provide security and control access to buildings and rooms.

Automatic garage doors 

An automatic garage door is an innovative and convenient embedded system that seamlessly blends technology and functionality to enhance the overall experience of owning a garage. The system comprises a microcontroller, the brain of the operation, which runs the embedded software, and an array of sensors, actuators, and other hardware components that work harmoniously to gather information about the door’s position and control its movement.

The embedded software in an automatic garage door is truly a work of art, with algorithms that are designed to control the door’s movement with precision, monitor its position, and respond to inputs from various sources such as remote controls, keypads, and even voice commands. You can even control your garage door from the convenience of your smartphone or computer through a web interface, making it the epitome of convenience and accessibility.

GPS Systems

GPS (Global Positioning System) systems are another example of embedded systems in action. These systems use a network of satellites orbiting the Earth to provide precise location and navigation information to users. The GPS receiver, which can be found in a wide range of devices such as smartphones, cars, and boats, is an embedded system that receives and processes signals from GPS satellites.

The GPS receiver uses embedded systems to calculate the user’s location and provide navigation information, such as turn-by-turn directions. It also uses embedded systems to process and display the location data on a map, and to provide other features such as real-time traffic updates and points of interest.

It’s a Wrap

In conclusion, embedded systems are playing a transformative role in various industries, from healthcare to transportation. They are making our lives more efficient, convenient, and safe by providing real-time data and control capabilities. With the advent of technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, and 5G, the future of embedded systems looks even more promising. 

We will see more and more embedded devices in our everyday lives, from smart homes to autonomous vehicles, making our lives more seamless and connected. The possibilities are endless and the impact of embedded systems will only continue to grow. 

It’s an exciting time to be a part of this ever-evolving field and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for embedded systems.