BackChair Mobile Application for Bluetooth-Enabled Chair Control

Overview

The BackChair Mobile Application is a sophisticated IOT app designed to enhance user comfort and ergonomics by enabling users to control and adjust chairs via Bluetooth. This project, targeting both Android and iOS platforms, focuses on seamless integration with Bluetooth controllers and Arduino, ensuring precise and customizable chair movements. The application includes advanced functionalities such as multiple user logins, chair profiles, and multi-device management, aiming to provide an intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Key Features

1. Advanced Login Options:
   • Users can securely log in via multiple methods, including FaceID, TouchID, Email, and social accounts.
   • Ensures accessibility while maintaining robust security.
2. Dynamic Chair Control:
   • Supports real-time chair adjustments via:
     • Scroll wheel or slider controls for intuitive user interaction.
     • Direct numeric input for precise position settings (e.g., typing 22.5°).
   • Includes functions like “Get Current Chair Positions,” “Add Setting,” and “Stop Chair Settings.”
3. Bluetooth and Arduino Integration:
   • Seamlessly connects with Bluetooth controllers and Arduino for precise chair movement and motor control.
   • Auto-pairing mode if no device is detected on launch.
4. Multi-Chair and User Management:
   • Allows users to manage multiple chairs and profiles through a centralized system.
   • Ensures smooth operations even in multi-user environments.
5. Design and Usability:
   • Wireframes designed to incorporate visual chair representations for intuitive control.
   • Multi-level settings enable users to create and switch between various chair configurations.

Key Achievements

• Comprehensive App Design:
  • Developed wireframes and specifications that addressed user needs and technical feasibility.
  • Integrated visual chair controls for enhanced user interaction.
• Streamlined Workflow:
  • Defined clear next steps and deliverables, including invoice processing, feature development, and specification reviews.
• Innovative User Features:
  • Introduced functionalities like multi-chair management, customizable profiles, and advanced Bluetooth commands for optimal control.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Handling Multiple Users on a Single Chair:
   • Challenge: Prevent conflicts when multiple users attempt to control the same chair.
   • Solution: Implement a serialization scheme and user-lock mechanism to manage simultaneous connections.
2. Remote Work and Testing Constraints:
   • Challenge: Device testing was delayed due to lockdown restrictions.
   • Solution: Focused on feature development and documentation until devices became available for testing.
3. Bluetooth Controller Selection:
   • Challenge: Identifying a suitable Bluetooth controller compatible with Arduino and app architecture.
   • Solution: Reviewed and shortlisted controllers like the DSD TECH HC-05, ensuring compatibility with device identification and signaling requirements.