Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are small microcontroller devices, which are part of a larger control system. Why do some large computer controlled systems need smaller subsystems? Is there not enough computation power? In fact, the problem is not the computation power, it's the sheer number of relatively simple tasks demanding real-time control. This means the system must concurrently run a large number of programs with a specified functionality as well as a specified execution speed. The limiting factor is logistics rather than pure computation power. The solution is a distributed computer system where smaller embedded subsystems are responsible for the timeline. 

Students are already familiar with basic microcontroller electronics. This course is about deeper understanding the design of multitasking real-time capabilities. Suppose you want to make an elliptic cut into sheet wood. The device must simultaneously drive three stepper motors to describe an elliptic motion. However, the speed of the cutting head is crucial as well. If it's too fast, the drill bit will break, if it's is too slow, the wood will overheat.

Understanding the principles of microcontrollers. Hardware and software design procedures. Acquiring specific skills during lab work with Adruino Due architecture.

Lectures, discussion groups, laboratory project work (group and individual).