Shadecraft – Smart patio umbrella designed with operational & environmental safety in mind

A technology platform powered by renewable solar energy to improve human life outdoors through robotic technology and industrial design.

Shadecraft is the world’s first robotic shading system that tracks the sun and connects consumers to the Internet of Things (IoT) through Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration and voice activation features. Shadecraft’s premiere audio sound and voice experiences are both enhanced by Harman/Kardon’s impeccable audio and far-field voice input technologies.

Business Overview – Shadecraft

Our client is based in California, USA. We collaborated with Rick who wanted to integrate solar panels that generate and store renewable energy for uninterrupted usage and operation named Shadecraft.

Shadecraft was designed with operational and environmental safety in mind.

The SmartShade companion app for iOS gives you full control to all the technology in your Shadecraft – opening and closing, tilting and rotation, lighting, sound, sensor data, and more. Set alerts, notifications, events and privacy settings, all at your fingertips with SmartShade.

The Challenge

One major challenge we faced was to make it compatible with Alexa. Control it with simple commands from the comfort of your home.

Another big obstacle was to integrate sophisticated far-field microphones with noise cancellation and AI give you hands-free voice command and control.

To enhance the user experience in real-time, our team faced difficulty in integrating a multitude of sensors to collect data and operate autonomously.

Our Approach

We were dedicated to improving human life outdoors by using a wide range of technologies for robotics. Shadecraft has generated worldwide attention. We tracked the sun using solar power for automation, AI and IoT connectivity.

We integrated various sensors which collects data and operates autonomously. It enhances the user experience in real-time. Consumers for the first time will reduce the clutter outdoors with Shadecraft via its integrated audio, voice, connectivity, device charging and autonomous movement features that need no assistance.

This is how we overcame challenges

Bluetooth Low Energy(BLE)

We integrated an advanced BLE technology by using Python, which consumes less power and gives greater opportunities for IoT adoption.

Machine Learning Algorithms

Our AI team worked through various use cases to implement machine learning algorithms to interlink weather forecast data.

NLP for decision making

We examined and applied Natural Language Processing (NLP) concepts for systematic decision making in solar-charged variable-colour lighting.

Device communication

To transfer data through a network without requiring human support for mechanical movement with the sun to protect individuals from sunburn.

High-Definition Camera module

We have used Arducam mini module camera shield to create a camera module for capturing HD Quality candid shots of family and friends.

Temperature control

By combining a set of sensors, our experienced IoT team made sure that devices share information with one another for temperature control.

Project Highlights

Shadecraft has integrated solar panels that generate and store renewable energy for uninterrupted usage and operation.

It wakes up in the morning, opens up, tracks the sun until sundown and then closes automatically unless you tell it otherwise.

Shadecraft takes HD quality photos, it also voices control through built-in speakers. It is also equipped with LTE connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB charging port and control audio/video Systems.

Results – A journey from Ideas to Success

We successfully developed an IoT based platform for a smart umbrella known as Shadecraft.

Shadecraft’S sensors detect inclement weather, which opens and closes based on wind speeds or UV intensity.

Shadecraft also offers LTE connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB charging ports.

Shadecraft, offers voice activation, premium speakers, and app control.

Technologies we used

BLE

Blue Prism

Raspberry Pi

eSpeak

Client Testimonial

“SoluLab team was outstanding in bringing my vision to reality. They built IoT solution Shadecraft Bloom that allows users to interact with their patio furniture in a smart way. The team was flexible enough to accommodate tight deadlines and take calls in the late evening.”