Inductive Sensing challenge selects finalists

element14 has selected 10 finalists in the Inductive Sensing Challenge, a global design competition using Texas Instruments’ LDC1000 inductance-to-digital converter. The finalists, representing 10 different countries in North America, Europe and Asia, were chosen from hundreds of submissions around the world to create innovative devices using the product.

The competition aims to challenge design engineers to create and discover new uses for inductive sensing, a contactless, magnet-free sensing technology. Sensors convert readings into digital information that can be stored and shared online, and this technology has significant implications for the Internet of Things.

“The possibilities for inductive sensing are endless, and we received submissions with many creative solutions that put this technology to great use,” said Dianne Kibbey, global head of community at element14.

“Ultimately we identified finalist projects that offer great possibilities for the Internet of Things in a wide variety of applications including health and wellness, construction, security and disaster preparedness, to name a few.”

Competitors have from now until 22 August 2014 to complete their projects using the LDC1000.

The finalists, as well as their locations and design proposals, are as follows:

• Gabriele Baldi (Italy): An earthquake detector capable of warning before destructive waves hit, saving lives in the path of the storm.
• Lex Bryan Bangot (Philippines): A device that evaluates the type of metal used in the construction of buildings to ensure it is to standard and matches the original plan.
• Michael Köhler (Germany): An acoustic ‘follow focus’, a mechanical device used to adjust the focus of a movie or DSLR camera.
• Elbert Kreukniet (Holland): A portable, wireless metal detector that utilises a smartphone or tablet app as a remote display.
• Arun Magesh (India): A non-invasive device that measures the iron content in blood, with implications for the health and medical industries.
• Piotr Parkeniuk (Poland): A sensor detecting body movement and changes based on heart rate, used to transmit data wirelessly for diagnostic purposes.
• Sammy Peiren (Belgium): A microphone with high sensitivity and dynamic range, with a digital output to connected speakers.
• Thierry Pottier (Norway): A waterproof, dustproof sensor detecting whether or not doors are closed, used for increased security.
• Michael Shonle (United States): “ForgetMeNot!” key and cell phone detection and loss prevention device, alerting the user to important forgotten items.
• Nabeel Sowan (Sweden): Contactless sliding doors for bathrooms and interior designs, allowing the user to open or close the door without touching it for sanitation and safety.

The grand prize winner of the Inductive Sensing Challenge will receive a 128 GB iPad Air, with the People’s Choice winner receiving a 32 GB iPad Air. Both prize recipients will be chosen by a vote on the award-winning element14 Community.

Participants will document their progress through photos, videos and blog posts at the element14 Community: http://www.element14.com/community/groups/sensor-technology