The Cogent Computing Applied Research Centre at Coventry University is pleased to be able to offer support for industry and other research organisations in the form both of consultancy and short courses, in a range of the Centre's areas of expertise, relating to sensing.
In addition to the Centre's well known excellence in the field of Wireless Sensor Networks we can also offer support in the more general domain of sensing, instrumentation and industrial monitoring.
Our research is focused on the practical aspects of the next wave of sensing technologies. We blend both theoretical and experimental research, using the theory to guide the way and the experiments to determine what is possible in the real world. We would be delighted to have the opportunity to apply the body of knowledge that we have accumulated to address real life sensing applications.
We pride ourselves on our ability to work with specialists in other domains, understand their concerns and needs, and support them in producing technological solutions to their problems. Specifically, we can offer tailored consultancy packages in the following areas:
Wireless sensing
Our extensive practical experience with wireless sensing systems has given us the knowledge to help 'jump start' enterprises approaching wireless sensing for the first time. Our services range from sober and realistic technology assessments for company managers unsure whether to embark in this area, to the design of bespoke sensing systems to individual requirements, or equipment selection and system design support for companies.
We have developed tools which can aid the design of wireless sensor networks, and can apply them to specific projects. At the other end of the research spectrum, we are developing the technology to allow the building of very large (thousand node plus) sensing systems, and can support, advise and scope large scale applications. In particular, we have internationally leading expertise in:
As educationalists, we pay particular attention to the pedagogic design of our short courses. These can be offered on a one-to-one tuition basis, or as a course for a small group. Usual duration of a course would be one or two weeks, and they can be delivered at the customer's premises or at the University.
We are happy to tailor a course to specific requirements, from any of our active areas of research, detailed above. Alternatively, we have a small range of existing courses which could be delivered to the customer's requirements at short notice. These courses have been focused on 'jump starting' an enterprise in new areas of activity or technology. They are as follows:
Getting started in Wireless Sensor Networks
Using the MICA sensing platform. A practical course for practitioners of either electrical or software engineering. The course covers the practical skills and knowledge required to start devising sensing applications using the Berkeley/Crossbow MICA sensing platform. Hardware and software aspects of the platform and practical experience of programming and configuring sensing systems are included. Details available on request for 3 days, 5 days or longer, bespoke courses. (Prerequisites: practical programming skills in any Object Oriented language)
NesC and Tiny OS
Focused course for those who need to start programming distributed sensing applications using this popular language and operating system, which are applicable to a variety of sensing platforms (MICA, TELOS, BSN, INTEL). Details available on request for 3 days, 5 days or longer, bespoke courses. (Prerequisites: practical programming skills in any Object Oriented language)
Programming from first principles
For application domain specialists who need to gain programming skills quickly in order to start to implement wireless sensor systems. Ideal as a precursor to the courses above, this course focuses on rapid acquisition of the core programming skills generic to a range of programming environments. The course is delivered using Python, one of the most popular new languages in the field of interactive systems design, and a new contender for embedded systems. (Prerequisites: at least A-level skills in a numerate discipline-(Mathematics or Science)
Sensor Mote hardware design
A rapid introduction to the design of sensor motes using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS), useful for those either engaging in hardware design or wishing to make an appropriate selection from commercially available platforms. The course examines the design of and reasoning behind of the ubiquitous MICA and TELOS motes, and follows possible directions for future designs, focusing on the available choices for sensor device interface, processor architecture, memory system, power management and RF stack. If required, participants with EDA experience may undertake a supervised and supported design of a mote to their own set of requirements. (Prerequisites: digital design experience).
For details about any of the courses above and general enquiries on Sensing, Sensor Networks and Instrumentation related opportunities you would like to explore with the Cogent Computing Centre, contact:
Dr Elena Gaura Reader in Pervasive Computing