Prototype

After the 7 structured labs that cover basic digital signal processing (DSP) operations, ECE 420 students will explore in depth a chosen fundamental DSP algorithm using Python for 2 weeks on prototype.

Later, the final projects should be built upon the prototype. Students have to demonstrate their understanding of the algorithm and its implementation through oral quiz during the demo and presentation.

Students have to develop a testing and validation plan to demonstrate that the high-level implementation works. Methodology and results should be included in the prototype proposal.

The Prototype Plan must be submitted using the provided LaTeX template. Submissions that do not use the required format will not be graded.
✅ Latex Template

ECE 420 Prototype Plan

Team members: _______________________________________________

Lab section: __________________

Project title: _______________________________________________

This document is intended to be a concise engineering plan. Answer each item directly.

1. Project Objective

In one sentence, state what your prototype will accomplish.

Your objective:

______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

Example: Implement a "Face ID" application that identifies one of several registered users from the tablet camera.

2. Input / Output

Select the Android tablet input/output devices that your project will use.

Input

• [ ] Camera

• [ ] Microphone

• [ ] Accelerometer

• [ ] Gyroscope

• [ ] Other IMU sensor: __________________

• [ ] Touchscreen

• [ ] Stored audio/image/data file

• [ ] Other: _____________________________

Output

• [ ] Display

• [ ] Speaker

• [ ] Vibration

• [ ] Stored data/file

• [ ] Other: _____________________________

Briefly describe what data enters the DSP system and what result it produces.

Input: ______________________________________________________________________

Output: ______________________________________________________________________

3. Signal and System Constraints

Define at least two specific assumptions or constraints under which your prototype is expected to operate successfully.

Do not attempt to design a completely general-purpose system. Restrict the problem to a reasonable working scenario that can be implemented and tested during the course.

Constraint 1

Constraint 2

Constraint 3 (optional)

Example — Face ID prototype:

1. The user's face is approximately frontal and positioned within a predefined region of the camera image.

2. Lighting is assumed to be reasonably bright and approximately constant between registration and recognition.

3. The prototype identifies only members of a small registered database, such as 3–5 users.

4. DSP Algorithm

Identify the main signal-processing algorithm or technique used in your prototype.

Main DSP algorithm/technique: ______________________________________________________________________

Briefly explain how the algorithm works. Focus on the DSP operations that your group will implement rather than providing a general introduction to the topic.

Suggested length: approximately 1/2 page.

4.1 System Block Diagram / Flowchart

Draw a block diagram or flowchart showing the major stages of your system.

Your diagram should show the complete path from input → signal processing → decision/output.

Example:

4.2 Key Equation

Provide one important equation representing the core DSP algorithm. For example,

Then, define every important variable used in the equation.

4.3 Technical Reference

Provide at least one technical reference describing the algorithm. Appropriate references include research papers, textbooks, or technical documentation.

Reference:

5. Testing and Validation Plan

Describe at least two specific tests that you will perform to determine whether the prototype works correctly.

Each test should specify:

• the test condition or input,

• the expected output or behavior, and

• a measurable criterion for determining success whenever possible.

Example — Face ID using Eigenfaces

6. Expected Prototype Demonstration

In 2–3 bullet points, state what you expect to demonstrate to the teaching staff when the prototype is complete.

• ____________________________________________________________________

• ____________________________________________________________________

• ____________________________________________________________________

These items should be specific enough that the teaching staff can determine whether the proposed prototype has been successfully completed.

Evaluation

The Prototype Plan defines the scope and expected functionality of your prototype. You are not graded on producing polished prose. We are primarily evaluating whether:

• your project objective is clear and appropriately scoped;

• your assumptions and working conditions are specific;

• you understand the primary DSP algorithm;

• your implementation has a logical signal-processing flow; and

• you have a meaningful way to test whether the algorithm works.

Each team member is responsible for understanding all technical material included in this plan. Teaching staff may ask any team member to explain the algorithm, equations, system diagram, assumptions, or validation tests during the prototype demonstration.

Prototype Demo and Presentation

The Prototype Presentation will consist of a prepared oral presentation with supporting visuals (e.g., PowerPoint), to an expert panel consisting of the ECE 420 teaching staff and possibly additional outside experts, describing in detail the project goals, the proposed project design, the background research findings or other arguments leading to the selection of this approach as the preferred solution. A test and verification plan must also be included.

The Prototype Demo will involve a live demonstration of the results and outcomes of the prototype.