Seeed Monthly Wrap-up for August 2024: How to Add AI to Almost Anything?
In this edition, boost your knowledge with 12 in-depth tech explorations offering expert insights, 4 weekly livestream recaps, and 10 product and service showcases. Stay updated with 7 highlights on Seeed’s latest news and events, and explore the vibrant open-source community with 8 inspiring projects that showcase the future of innovation.
Hey community,
Welcome to the latest edition of Seeed Monthly for August 2024! This month, we’re diving into one of the most exciting trends in tech: adding AI to almost anything. From smart devices to industrial applications, AI is transforming industries and empowering makers to innovate like never before.
In this edition, boost your knowledge with 12 in-depth tech explorations offering expert insights, 4 weekly livestream recaps, and 10 product and service showcases. Stay updated with 7 highlights on Seeed’s latest news and events, and explore the vibrant open-source community with 8 inspiring projects that showcase the future of innovation.
📚 I. In-depth Feature & Tech Exploration
01. Your Shortest Path to Build an AI Gadget
Adding AI to almost anything is trending, and we’ve navigated the challenges of creating AI devices so you don’t have to. The SenseCAP Watcher is the result of our efforts, designed to make building AI devices easier. With our customizable services, you can take your AI hardware from concept to market in just a few weeks. Find out more.
02. Add a physical AI agent, SenseCAP Watcher, to Home Assistant
In this wiki, we will guide you through the process of integrating Watcher with Home Assistant, enabling you to harness the full potential of AI in your smart home setup. Read more here.
03. How to run VLM with speech interaction on reComputer Jetson
Training AI models for specific object detection is widely used everywhere, what about asking for a general description of the scene? Multimodal VLM on NVIDIA Jetson Orin helps you with that. Now it’s easily to get started with VLM combined with speech interaction to build your virtual AI assistant on the edge. Check out today.
04. NVIDIA Jetson —from Beginners to Masters
Introducing reComputer-Jetson-for-Beginners, a comprehensive guide collection designed to empower developers with the full potential of NVIDIA Jetson AI computing capabilities. This project covers everything from: AI Fundamentals, Jetson Hardware & Software Stack, AI Software Ecosystem, Applications across Vision AI, Robotics, and Generative AI.
By completing all modules, you’ll be equipped to build end-to-end industry workflows, eg. leveraging new Jetson Platform Service to create your own AI-powered NVR system! Click for more.
05. Generative AI with reComputer-Jetson®
Explore our hashtag#GenerativeAI Wiki for hands-on tutorials that bring AI from theory to real-world applications! Check it out now.
06. Run Depth Anything V2 on NVIDIA Jetson Orin
Excited to share how you can deploy Depth Anything V2 on NVIDIA Robotics Jetson Orin NX in just one click!
- Select depth estimation models in the UI.
- One-click TensorRT model conversion.
- Support for video, image, and webcam inputs. Find out more.
07. reComputer R1000 act as OPC UA server with Node-RED
As an edge AIoT controller & gateway built on Raspberry Pi, reComputer R1000 supports BACnet, Modbus, and OPC UA simultaneously. With such extensive compatibility, it acts as a bridge between the IT and OT realms. You could also enjoy a visualized interface of data exchange with NodeRed onboard. Click for more.
08. Building Smarter IIoT Solutions: The MING Stack and Raspberry Pi-Powered reComputer
MING stack is a powerful combo and pre-built toolset ready to be leveraged. When deployed on reComputer R1000, packed with reTerminal DM, the HMI, check how seamless the data transfer is through our demo. Check out the Walk-through wiki and detailed explanation on the MING stack.
09. Tutorial of AI Kit with Raspberry Pi 5 about YOLOv8n object detection
Dive into our latest tutorial on training and deploying YOLOv8n on Raspberry Pi 5 with AI Kit from scratch. It’s a complete tutorial covering model training, format converting, quantizing, and compiling. Empowered by Ultralytics & Hailo, You’ll craft a perfect-sized quantized HEF INT8 object detection model for your RPi AI Kit! Learn more.
10. reComputer R1000 install FIN
FIN Framework (FIN) is a software framework with application suites that can integrate, control, manage, analyze, visualize and connect. Its capabilities can be integrated by OEMs into a range of products and services. This article mainly introduces how to install FIN on reComputer R1000. Read more.
11. ChatGPT – Raspberry Pi
This guide walks you through integrating voice input, large model response, and voice output functionalities using a Raspberry Pi 5. With ReSpeaker Lite as the audio input/output device, you’ll enable seamless conversations with ChatGPT and speech-to-text services. Check it out.
12. Start running with ESP-NOW protocol on XIAO Series
ESP-NOW is a wireless communication protocol developed by Espressif Systems that enables direct, fast, and low-power control of smart devices. This Wiki will tell you how to use XIAO ESP32 Series to communicate using this protocol. In order to enable everyone to utilize the ESP-NOW protocol in the XIAO ESP32 series, we prepare thress XIAO ESP32 types C6/C3/S3 to comuncate. Check out today.
🎬 II. Weekly Livestream: Making Next Gadget
Our renewed livestream “Making Next Gadgets” is back! Each livestream will feature a different tech theme, with our product dev teams sharing the latest product updates, project demos, and exclusive deals. Join us on a journey through the tech revolution happening right now!
01. Update: AI Boosted RPi for Real World Applications
In this livestream, we addressed the very questions raised by our users about the reComputer R1000 and RPi M.2 Hat. In part two, they showcased our upcoming RPi AI Box integrated with the Hailo 8L 13Tops NPU. Watch the recap here.
02. The Most Advanced AI Camera?
This week’s livestream, Our Product Manager Ethan Zhou, and Marketing Manager Jennie Wang walked through reCamera’s hardware component and rich expansion possibilities, also integrating NodeRed to offer the most verstile platform for geekers developing vision AI systems. Watch the recap.
03. Meshtastic for Hazard Response
In the live stream, our CEO, Eric Pan, and BD Manager, Kingsley Li, shared about real-world hazard scenarios and explore how AIoT-driven response capabilities are vital for building a sustainable future. Learn how you can join us in the ongoing effort to innovate and improve hazard response solutions. Watch the recap.
04. LET’S PARTY! AI Hardware & Chelas ｜ Con Eric Pan de Seeed Studio
In collaboration with Hacedores Makerspace, we hosted a special meet-up at Mexico, filled with innovation, fun, and community spirit. Attendees enjoyed drinks, snacks, and exclusive Seeed Studio products, with our CEO Eric Pan shared the latest news from Seeed. Watch the recap.
📰 III. Product & Service Showcases
Stay up-to-date with the latest product releases from Seeed. Discover new tools, platforms, and services designed to streamline your workflow and accelerate innovation in your projects.
01. Introducing the World’s First IP65-Rated Meshtastic Tracker Device, SenseCAP T1000-E
SenseCAP Card Tracker T1000-E, the world’s first IP65-rated Meshtastic device with a nifty card size, effortlessly fits in your pocket or attaches to your assets, and works seamlessly with the Meshtastic LoRa mesh network. It embeds Semtech’s LR1110, Nordic’s nRF52840, and Mediatek’s AG3335 GPS module, providing a high-precision, low-power positioning and communication solution. With 2 onboard sensors, you can also get the temperature and lightness data as well. Find out more here.
02. Meet Seeed Studio XIAO RP2350, the Smallest MicroPython-Ready Dev Board Powered by Raspberry Pi RP2350
We’re excited to announce Seeed Studio XIAO RP2350! This tiny board packs the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi RP2350 chip into the beloved XIAO form factor, making it one of the smallest dev board for MicroPython. It includes 19 GPIOs, an RGB LED, battery management, and more. Read more.
03. Meet XIAO RA4M1, Powered by Renesas 32-Bit ARM® Cortex®-M4 RA4M1 Microcontroller
Introducing XIAO RA4M1, a thumb-sized powerhouse featuring a 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M4 core. Powered by Renesas RA4M1 microcontroller, XIAO RA4M1 packs a punch with 256KB Flash, 32KB SRAM, and 8KB EEPROM, all in a compact 21×17.8mm form factor. Discover More.
04. Protect Your Workstation with SenseCAP Watcher
Need to step away while testing a product kit but want to leave a clear message to others not to touch it? Tying a paper note might easily fall or be missed. Enter the SenseCAP Watcher—the AI-powered device designed to monitor your workspace, detect anomalies, and take action as needed. Just speak to the Watcher, and it will carry out your instructions when something happens. Read more.
05. Ochin Tiny Carrier Board V2 for Raspberry Pi CM4
The latest update from one of the Co-Create Products from Seeed Studio Fusion: Designed by Flavio Ansovini, the Ochin CM4 2.0 is a compact carrier board for Raspberry Pi CM4. With a small form factor, it is ideal for low-power consumption applications in limited spaces such as drones, robotics, home automation, etc. Find out more.
06. Grove Vision AI Module v2 is now fully supported in Edge Impulse
Our Grove Vision AI Module v2 is now fully integrated and supported in Edge Impulse! Learn more about the board and get started here.
07. Workshop: How to Add AI to Almost Everything
Designed for AI beginners and Arduino enthusiasts, this workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to machine learning while demystifying the world of AI.
🔸 Familiarity with the fundamental features and workflow of SenseCraft AI Platform.
🔹 Proficiency in essential steps such as data preprocessing, model training, and evaluation.
🔸 Understanding of ML concepts and their application scenarios.
🔹 Ability to deploy models to the XIAO ESP32S3 Sense using the Edge Impulse platform. Start Now
08. Map out the Global LoRaWAN® Coverage with SenseCAP T1000-A Tracker
SkyNet IoT global IoT LoRaWAN gateway map provides a real-time overview of the LoRaWAN® access points and networks connected to SkyNet IoT. The Coverage and Mapping Map (BETA) is an open project, and the team has sent out invites to developers to map out the global LoRaWAN® Network at no network cost using cost-effective tracker devices, including our SenseCAP T1000-A. Find out more now.
09. SenseCAP Helium IoT hotspot and WeatherXM weather station helps combat Xochimilco water crisis
SensorETA is helping Xochimilco, Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage site, combat its water crisis with essential weather data. They deployed the first Seeed Studio SenseCAP Helium IoT hotspot and WeatherXM weather station in the area, as part of the WeatherXM/ SwissBorg project. The data collected will be integrated into SensorETA’s ETA Rules engine, offering comprehensive insights by combining it with soil, air quality, and other environmental data. Read more.
10. Smart Coastal Management: IoTech Deploys SenseCAP LoRaWAN Weather Station to Enhance Environmental and Water Quality Monitoring in Bournemouth
The “Bathing Water Quality” project at Boscombe Seafront, Bournemouth, marks a significant advancement in coastal environmental monitoring, driven by IoTech’s deployment of the UK’s first 9-in-1 smart weather station. This initiative, part of BCP Council’s “Smart Place” program, leverages SenseCAP compact weather sensor and the SenseCAP S21000 LoRaWAN Data Transmission Unit to provide real-time, accurate environmental data crucial for maintaining high water quality standards. Read more.
👩💻 IV. News & Event Highlights
Get the inside scoop on recent events and news. Gain valuable insights, key takeaways, and highlights from industry experts and thought leaders at the forefront of ML innovation.
01. Seeed Studio at FAB24: A Deep Dive into Innovating Digital Fabrication
FAB24 Mexico, hosted by The Fab Foundation, Fab City Foundation, The Center for Bits and Atoms at MIT,Institute of Design and Technological Innovation (IDIT), and The Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Business (CIEN) of Puebla, is a celebration of innovation and creativity bringing together makers from around the world. Seeed Studio was thrilled to be a part of this dynamic event as a key sponsor again. Here’s an in-depth look at our participation and exploration this year.
02. Seeed and KaaIoT Partner to Advance Remote Asset Tracking Solutions
Seeed Studio has partnered with KaaIoT to provide remote asset tracking solutions for smart buildings using LoRaWAN. KaaIoT offers a cloud-based tracking management platform integrated with SenseCAP T1000 tracker and SenseCAP M2 Gateway. More info.
03. Wio Tracker 1110 Dev Kit for Meshtastic in the Wild: Transformational Festival Field Report from Ozora 24
Davide Gomba, one of Seeed Studio’s Ranger, attended a wearable & decorations LED/light workshop in Ozora Festival, where he brought the Wio Tracker 1110 Dev Kit for Meshtastic for the workshop. Find out more.
04. Back to School Sale
Our Back to School Sale is here, featuring limited-time discounts on microcontrollers, AI tools, DIY kits, and more. Whether you’re a beginner looking for user-friendly workshop kits or an advanced learner seeking development tools for in-depth AI and ML studies, we have you covered! Don’t miss out—offers end September 30th! Click to Join.
05. Tech for Sport: A Look at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 
As the Olympic Games in Paris showcases, the fusion of technology and sports is creating a new era of athletic excellence. Technology is helping to create a seamless and enriched experience for attendees and athletes around the world! More info.
06. Join Seeed Studio at The Things Conference 2024
Join us in the upcoming The Things Conference 2024 happening on September 25-26 in Amsterdam. If you’re visiting, make sure to come to say hi at our booth, or workshop, or even check out our keynote, roundtables, and more. More
07. Announcing the winners of the August Monthly Campaign
In August, we received a total of 9 amazing projects for our “Monthly Campaign to Scale Up Your AI Gadget“. The top three winners are:
- Raspberry Pi 5-Based All-in-One PC Inside a Keyboard by Arnov Sharma which gained 22 likes
- Gameboy ML by Arnov Sharma which gained 21 likes
- Light Guidance System by Chaihuo Maker Space which gained 13 likes
Congratulations to our winners! We will provide free services to help make these projects available as products in our store soon! More info.
🌈 V. Community Project Spotlight
Celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of our community members with featured projects and ideas in machine learning. From open-source libraries to DIY solutions, there’s no shortage of inspiration to be found among our talented community.
01. uPhone, An AI Wearable for Better Interaction, Powered by XIAO ESP32S3
Created by visionary technologist Cayden Pierce, uPhone is not just another AI wearable – it’s a paradigm shift in human-computer interaction. This groundbreaking device takes the form of a necklace, with a display that faces outward, visible to everyone engaged in conversation with the wearer. It’s a wearable computer that bridges the gap in human augmentation by making AI assistance, real-time translation, and information sharing a collective experience. Check it out.
02. Custom Your Tesla Model 3 Brake Light with XIAO ESP32C6
Seth Evans, an innovative maker, along with his friend Jared Farago has developed an innovative custom brake light for all Tesla Model 3, designed to enhance safety and style with selectable lighting patterns using the XIAO ESP32C6. Learn more.
03. 3D Printed Fish Feeder RC Boat With Controller
Gokul kb has transformed a fish feeder into a multi-functional gadget. The boat communicates with the controller using the ESP-NOW protocol, powered by our XIAO ESP32C3, offering a streamlined setup with a range of up to 200 meters. Find out more.
04. 20W RGB Portable Video Light
Gokul kb transforms our XIAO ESP32C3 into a powerful 20W RGB Portable Video Light! It features a fully 3D-printed design, making it accessible for anyone with a 3D printer. The light includes a rotary encoder for easy one-knob control of hue and brightness and comes with a magnetically attachable diffuser for softening the light and a honeycomb grid to reduce light spill. The 5000mAh battery ensures 2-3 hours of usage and is conveniently rechargeable via USB-C. Dive into the project.
05. Hive Helper – Xiao ESP32C3 ePaper Home Assistant Display
Check out the latest innovation by Timothy Lovett, the Hive Helper! This smart home device brings your Home Assistant data to life with an eye-catching 2.9″ ePaper display powered by the XIAO ESP32C3, along with the Grove Flame and Gas sensors. Not only does the Hive Helper monitor the weather, but it also tracks room temperature, humidity, and hazardous gases like NO2 and CO, making it a versatile addition to any home. Learn more.
06. LoRa P2P Communication using ESP32 & Xiao nRF52840 
Ever wondered how to set up a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) communication link using LoRa without ever using a gateway? Check out Asim Z.’s latest tutorial that walks you through the entire process! He walks you through the step-by-step process of implementing LoRa P2P communication using the REYAX TECHNOLOGY RYLR993 LoRa module. You will learn how to configure your LoRa settings, establish a P2P communication link, and seamlessly send and receive data between an ESP32 and a XIAO nRF5284. Find out more.
07. ANAVI Dev Mic by ANAVI Technology
ANAVI Dev Mic is an open-hardware USB Type-C omnidirectional microphone, featuring the Seeed Studio XIAO RP2040, designed for AI and ML voice applications. With its compact size, high-quality sound capture, and open-source firmware, the ANAVI Dev Mic offers a unique blend of affordability and versatility. It’s perfect for developers who want to customize and expand their projects, thanks to its 9 GPIO pins for hardware integration and the ability to flash your firmware. Learn more.
08. AI-driven Sound & Thermal Image-based HVAC Fault Diagnosis
Have you ever wished you didn’t have to do regular inspection and maintenance to prevent malfunctions of your hydronic HVAC systems? Now you don’t have to, thanks to the AI-driven Sound & Thermal Image-based HVAC Fault Diagnosis system made by Kutluhan Aktar. Find out more.
That’s all for today, thank you all for reading through this August Monthly Wrap-up in your spare time. If you wanna share what projects you’re working on, shoot us a tweet @seeedstudio, let us know on LinkedIn and Discord, or publish your project on our Project Hub on Hackster.
#Notes
If you’re new to this session, here is a brief intro. We have gotten dozens of requests over the years for a Seeed Monthly Newsletter. Although we already have a newsletter for weekly updates, we still need a place to host overall information about what’s happened on a monthly basis. It can offer an efficient and friendly way to get updated for the whole community. And that’s what we expect for our Seeed Monthly Wrap-ups. Instead of putting it as a subscribe-to-read format, we’re publishing them on our blog, so as to keep it as open and accessible as possible for the whole community. For each entry, we will cover awesome projects from the community, campaigns that we are running, new products, IIoT Solutions, and even secret recipes for prototyping and manufacturing.
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