Physical Computing Hardware
Possible hardware technology to utilize in the nice fit physical table:
Arduino Bluetooth. We’ll most likely be using one of the various Arduino flavours (an open-source micro controller) to control the table based on input from a variety of sensors.
Ultrasonic Range Finder. Accurate readings of 0 to 255 inches (0 to 6.45m) in 1 inch increments. Available in varying beam angles.
RFID Reader. Power the module, hold up a card, and get a serial string output containing the unique ID of the card. 200mm range.
Triple Axis Accelerometer. Selectable range, digital output, programmable inertial wake-up interrupt.
Flexiforce Pressure Sensor. a piezoresistive force sensor. The harder you press, the lower the sensor’s resistance. Pressing hard, the resistance changes from infinite to ~300k. The sensor itself is thin and flexible, but the resistance does not change while being flexed. Resistance changes only when pressure is applied to the round area at the end of the sensor. Used as a presence sensor (someone standing), weight sensor, pressure sensor (impact testing), etc. The overall length is about 8.5″. This sensor ranges from 0 to 25lbs of pressure.
Infrared Proximity Sensor. Analog output that varies from 3.1V at 10cm to 0.4V at 80cm.