Research & Development

Graphical Display of Sensor Data from Host System MySQL Database / Remote Sensor M2M Gateway via Ethernet WAN

Morey’s hardware engineers are pursuing this solution because it demonstrates a simplified, end-to-end path of an M2M system architecture. The “Sense-Think-Act” framework central to any IoT application is enabled through sensor data aggregated in an M2M gateway connected to a host system, where a database resides. The medium between the gateway can be physical (ethernet) or wireless (wifi/cellular/satellite), and the data can be presented graphically for analysis.

Applications for this type of IoT system are increasing as this market explodes. This research applies to the M2M, P2M, M2P markets, and can be utilized for predictive data to achieve increases in efficiency and reliability, such as the Morey Connect series of telematics products.

Demonstrations are being performed using open-source development platforms on the Arduino and Raspberry Pi, and MySQL and Mathematica softwares.  This allowed for rapid development for proof of concept and tests monitoring temperature, light and a switch-contact closures. A wired Ethernet switch transmitted the sensor data; however, wireless technologies such as BLE, ZigBee and wifi could also create a full wireless sensor network.

AC/DC Power Meter module for use with MC-3 Products

These efforts are designed to increase capabilities for customers utilizing Morey’s MC-3 telematics products for powered assets. For customers with Bluetooth functionality in the device, the power meter is a complementary unit that communicates with the MC-3 via Bluetooth or a serial port, and report location and motion information for a portable generation, as well as usage information during operation. Users can also monitor peak and RMS voltage, as well as current, apparent, reactive and active power, and power factor.

Helpful for billing and diagnostic purposes, this system could be used with any moveable AC or DC generator set, with all necessary measurements and calculations completed by a Microchip MCP39F01. The team has also evaluated this technology as research for peripherals that communicate with MC-3 products, where the MC-3 would read the desired values and report to the back end without significant loading of its processor.

Sustainable, High-Speed Li-Ion Battery Charging

Based on customer interest in faster charging speeds for M2M systems across a variety of applications. With an explosion of battery powered wireless products, the team is pursuing fast Li-Ion battery charging solutions edge devices, sensor, monitors and other communication technologies. Morey’s engineers are driving solutions to charge cells more efficiently in hardware that require little or no software interaction.

Similarly, Morey’s team is researching solar charging functionality for battery powered M2M devices, such as the MC-1 telematics products for non-powered or occasionally powered assets that provide reliable, efficient charging options without sacrificing device size and functionality. In addition to using a sustainable source of energy and reducing battery waste, this application is ideal for remote, not powered assets like storage containers, removing the need to recharge or replace batteries in the field.

BLDC Motor Controls Replacing Brushed

Customers across several markets are engaged in mechatronics, or the conversion to electrical solutions in lieu of traditionally mechanical systems, or a hybrid of both.  In anticipation of increased customer demand, the team is exploring solutions for any motor controller that drives spinning shaft such as fan motors for vehicle cooling, vacuum systems, fluid pumps and engine coolant.

BLDC motors can provide 10 times longer lifespan than brushed technology, as well as increased efficiencies. Morey is focused on research related to 3 Phase controller design for 4K to 20K+ rpm. This supplements our experience with 2 Phase controller design from 4 Amp to 50 Amps targeted for automotive temperature in the range of -55° to 95C° operations.