Getting Started with Embedded Linux

Finally, we are allowed to talk about it: We have developed an IoT high-torque screwdriver for torcbrain.

The development includes electronics, firmware, control engineering, security, web interface, as well as cloud integration and OPC-UA interface.

Our customized Embedded Linux Image is used, which already includes adapted device drivers and an up-to-date kernel for the project. The image is automatically created on our CI/CD servers and is therefore 100% traceable.

Simple Hardware Design

By using the SiP from Octavo Systems, the number of components and area were significantly reduced and the layout simplified. As an official Octavo Systems system partner, we benefit from direct contacts and further technical information.

Fast Boot Time

To ensure the security functions, it is important that the M4 code starts quickly. Therefore, we have developed a small and secure bootloader that enables short boot times for the M4 coprocessor and the subsequent Linux system.

Utilizing Existing M4 Code

The real-time capable coprocessor is largely compatible with the STM32 family and is based on a Cortex-M4 core running at 208Mhz.

Know-How, Anti-Clone Protection

The encrypted M4 code is decrypted only in the internal SRAM of the M4 and protected from being read by Linux through Trustzone.

Communication between the Linux application and the real-time controller is done through a dual-port RAM interface, allowing for maximum performance.

OTA Firmware Update

With the standardized Linux image, simple and secure updates of all system components are possible, for example via USB or online through access to our cloud infrastructure.

Through the rollback function, the operator can start the previous software version in case of unexpected problems after the update.

• Datasheet - English
• Fast boot => (MCU starts after ≈ 0.4s, Linux starts after ≈ 1.1 sec.)
• Complete secure boot solution (know-how protection, encrypted MCU code)
• Current, unmodified mainline Linux kernel
• Ideal for transitioning from existing microcontroller solutions
• (ARM M0/M4, STM32 Controller, ESP32, …)

Watch the blue power LED at the bottom left when the count-down ends.

Discover within seconds whether sensorless control of a BLDC motor is suitable for your specific application.

Our new evaluation kit, available at the beginning of the 3rd quarter of 2021, makes it easier to get started with this advantageous technology.

• Datasheet - German
• Datasheet - English
• STM32MP157-DK2 from STMicroelectronics
• TFT display with touch function
• ext. monitor (HDMI) / USB mouse
• Ethernet interface
• for web browser access
• 12-36V input
• BLDC motor connection
• Motor power stage
• idastroem BLDC_MP15x

Principle of operation of sensorless motor control

The control observes the motor’s response to the control signals and calculates the current rotor position and rotation speed based on a mathematical model.

The motor model is continuously updated and adjusted to the actual motor parameters. This eliminates time-consuming and error-prone calibration and measurement runs.

”Wheel of Fortune” Demonstration

(first presented at Embedded World 2020 at the DH electronics booth)