Hu-: Project Concept

An open-source distributed acoustic sensing platform

Project Vision

Hu- is an open-source, distributed intelligent sensing, classifiation, communication and learning platform designed to sense and communicate information within, between, and across FabLabs. Starting with a combination of acoustic sensor and OLED display, the system will learn about the sounds in the Fablab and share this with users in and across the FabLab network. It is hope that over time, and to meet the needs of various labs, the system will be expanded to include a range of senses and outputs; integrated with LLMs; provided acess to datasets; and increased in complexity of its network.

Quick Overview

  • Project Type: Environmental Monitoring / Edge Computing
  • Key Technologies: ESP32, TensorFlow Lite, LoRaWAN
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Machine Learning: Training and deploying models for sound classification
    • Edge Computing: Real-time processing on resource-constrained devices
    • Distributed Sensing: Networked sensors for environmental monitoring
  • Status: Concept Development
Concepts Explored
  • Edge AI and Machine Learning
  • Distributed Sensing Networks
  • Low-Power IoT
  • Environmental Data Collection
  • Learning and Self-efficacy
  • AI/Human Interaction
  • Digital Conscious Awareness & its'qualia'

Project Concept Sketch

Hu- Project Concept Sketch

The conceptual sketch illustrates a single Hu- node

Prototype: System Architecture

Node Components

  • Microcontroller: ESP32-S3 Microcontroller
  • Audio Sensing: High-quality MEMS microphone
  • Local Wireless Communication: LoRaWAN communication module
  • Power: LiPo Battery
  • Enclosure: Weather-resistant enclosure

Server Infrastructure

  • ... to be explored ...

Key Features

Edge Processing

On-device sound classification using TensorFlow Lite, reducing data transmission needs and enabling real-time analysis.

Energy Efficient

Solar-powered operation with intelligent power management for long-term deployment.

Low-Power Communication

LoRaWAN connectivity enables long-range data transmission with minimal power consumption.

Data Visualization

Interactive web platform for exploring and analyzing collected sound data.

Potential Applications

Environmental Monitoring

  • Wildlife activity tracking
  • Biodiversity assessment
  • Habitat health monitoring
  • Climate change impact studies

Urban Applications

  • Noise pollution monitoring
  • Urban wildlife tracking
  • Traffic pattern analysis
  • Public safety monitoring