Feature: Sustainable Solutions
in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C - an essential feature for construction site equipment like Novatron's Xsite solution. The current performance is more
than sufficient for comparing real- time construction machine and environmental parameters, which are queried at a rate of 200 Hz, with the target data from 3D BIM models. The results can be visualised on touch panels and LED displays. Novatron is well-prepared for potential future projects: If more powerful processor integrations become necessary, the Xsite controller is based on Computer- on-Modules following the PICMG COM Express standard. This allows for easy processor replacement, even if it has a new pinout or comes from a different manufacturer.
Computer-on-Modules make it easy to upgrade performance Novatron has already implemented this multiple times. After using the AMD Embedded G-Series, Novatron installed the AMD Embedded R-Series, which was released in 2015, before transitioning to the current AMD Ryzen Embedded V1000. However, using application-ready Computer- on-Modules offers more than just scalability across different processor generations and manufacturers. It also provides maximum future security and independence from specific module manufacturers. Novatron highly values the design
reliability of a Computer-on-Module with a thoroughly tested BSP. It greatly reduces the development effort compared to creating a fully custom design, which would otherwise be necessary. This is especially important because the MCC22 controller, used for 2D applications, has a real compact size of just 250 mm x 160 mm x 90 mm. As a result, it cannot accommodate a standard embedded motherboard based on its footprint alone. Additionally, neither smaller
general-purpose SBCs nor off-the-shelf carrier boards for COMs, which are
both available as options, do have the required interfaces or components specified for harsh environments. The MCC22 controller includes thus a carrier board designed by Novatron to specifically meet the requirements of the Xsite solution's 2D application controller. It includes various interfaces such as CAN, RS232, USB, display port, SIM card, Ethernet, PWR, GSM, UMTS, LTE, HSPA, and GPRS. "For such as feature set the current
COM and carrier approach is the right fit for us," explains Jesse Kettunen, head of machine control hardware development, a representative from Novatron. "While a ready-made board would be convenient, it would most likely come from a single supplier. Instead, we prefer to use our own carrier boards and purchase a COM Express module as an application- ready standard component. In our opinion, this approach is much more sustainable and also ensures the high quality of our products."
COM Express vs. COM-HPC When asked about the impact of the new PICMG high-end computer- on-module standard COM-HPC on Novatron's design decisions, Jesse Kettunen remains relaxed. "We don't require as many interfaces as COM- HPC offers, and with the PCIe Gen4 support of COM Express, we are still well-equipped for the next generation of our Xsite controllers," he explains. The topic of semi-automated
construction machinery is also not a reason for Novatron to change its controller concept in the medium term. The target/actual comparison can be visualised, and data can be transmitted to control systems. However, the controller design required for autonomous construction machinery would involve a different domain and would require video data processing. It will take some time before all of this merges with real-time BIM clouds. Nevertheless, Novatron is in the semi-automation of excavators. The company also supports
OEM customers in developing as-a- service offerings, as the Xsite solution provides the necessary database, including cloud platforms and BIM integration. However, Novatron did not
provide specific details about future innovations, as time-to-market is crucial for their introduction. They do acknowledge that standardised Computer-on-Modules would contribute significantly to reducing time-to-market. For instance, utilising modules with integrated AI engines would be possible. "With Computer- on-Modules, innovation cycles in processor technology can be realised much faster - especially when they come with a well-prepared BSP ready for application," adds Jesse Kettunen.
High performance for service as well By the way, the Xsite controllers utilise COM Express modules from congatec. Novatron has chosen the leading provider of embedded computer technology, which specialises specifically in the field of computer- on-modules. This specialisation ensures high quality and offers a wide range of price/performance balancing options. It also guarantees a sustainable roadmap for future upgrades of Xsite controllers. However, Jesse Kettunen is not
only impressed by the extensive range of modules and the ecosystem that includes suitable heat sinks and carrier boards for evaluation. He has also been consistently impressed by the personal integration support provided by congatec, which is always easily accessible and highly responsive. "The entire congatec team is incredibly agile and efficient. Such a high level of service performance makes working with new technologies very enjoyable, as you receive prompt answers to any questions that arise and change requirements within the BIOS are very easy to address as we can do it within our images on our own," expresses Jesse Kettunen with satisfaction.
www.electronicsworld.co.uk September 2024 31
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