CRAPPY goes embedded: Including low-cost hardware in experimental setups

Abstract

In a previous publication, we presented CRAPPY, a Python module designed for researchers wishing to easily develop code for driving complex experimental setups. In a complemented version, now targeting a broader audience, we extended the framework to include low-cost sensors, actuators, and cameras. Using such devices, it is now possible to set up tests with CRAPPY in a more cost-effective and flexible way. This can be achieved from embedded computers like the Raspberry Pi, on which the module is now fully functional. Alternatively, we introduce a solution for driving embedded sensors and actuators directly from a regular PC. Other enhancements for the integration of microcontrollers and remote equipment are also described. Based on examples of existing tests driven using CRAPPY, we demonstrate in this paper the feasibility of including low-cost equipment in experimental setups to obtain relevant results.

Keywords

• Control-command
• Acquisition
• Python
• Low-cost
• Embedded hardware