PSA

HIGHLIGHTS

A leading global supplier of electronics and technologies for the automotive industry was searching for the optimal component formula for their car radio product line. They approached PSA to provide seamless integration and overall upgrades for the car radio device.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Launch an enhanced version of the car radio utilizing 3rd party CD drive while keeping the same device behavior for the end user.

Project Objective

Integrate CD drive into the car radio while enriching the functionality set of the device.

SOLUTION

Focusing on increased efficiency and smooth operation, the PSA engineering team integrated the 3rd-party CD drive into the Pioneer-based car radio device by porting the drive’s SW framework to the target platform. We compared the operation mode of these two devices, defined code modules to be reused, and updated the firmware for the newly-made device.
 

Our team adjusted the existing HMI to the new playback hardware (CD), resolving the interface differences between the old and the new UI behaviors. The upgraded car radio device supports a complete set of basic functions like play/stop/eject, load disc, fast forward / fast backward, folder up/down, playlist support, power control, etc. Additionally, we included new functions at the client’s request:
 

• 1. Music navigator

• 2. Random playback

• 3. Repeat functionality
   

Extensive bug fixing within the existing device was required to improve overall productivity. Thus, PSA increased speed for consecutive track switching, improved the algorithm to move between folders, fixed long waiting after disc loading, and optimized memory usage.
 

As an output, the client received a ready-to-launch car radio device with CD support and extended functionality. PSA provided our complete support during the warranty period as well.
 

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Firmware Porting and Updates
• 2. UI updates
• 3. Testing & Bug fixing
   

RESULTS
​

• 1. Enhanced car radio device is ready for mass production

• 2. Seamless CD functioning within car radio
   

TECHNOLOGY

Technologies
​

• 1. Java
• 2. C/C++

​Platform
 

• Embedded
   

Industry
 

• Automotive
   

Project size
 

• 1 Senior SW Engineer
• 4 SW Engineers
   

Duration

• 5 months.

HIGHLIGHTS

A startup focusing on Machine Learning-based products has collaborated with PSA in the field of production defect detection. Following the successful delivery of the Machine Vision QC System to the printing client, we proceeded to jointly enhance this product before market launch. We focused on the reduction of deployment and mounting efforts, as well as efficiency increase, by putting all the AI computing into the device to support plug-and-play implementation.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Assess the possibility and feasibility of creating a more capacious and efficient QC product for plug-and-play implementation without server AI deployment.

Project Objective

Check the possibility of the current Machine Vision System to perform AI computing within a device. Provide redesign efforts estimation.

SOLUTION

For the system to support real-time AI-based defect detection within a device, it required a more capacious hardware platform. We selected the Nvidia Jetson board as a performative and cost-effective solution as it maintained all the prescribed functionality, such as video capturing and analysis at high speeds, light and sound signalization, and speed and contrast measurement.

To assess the AI performance on the edge, and prepare a complete estimation of redesign efforts, our team performed:
 

• 1. A purchase of Nvidia development board & environment setup

• 2. Preliminary firmware source code migration from the initial solution

• 3. Work Breakdown Structure creation

• 4. Main components selection
   

For the client to avoid additional efforts and molding expenses, we selected the optimal ready-made enclosure requiring minimum modifications.
 

While estimating, PSA foresaw possible bottlenecks and made adjustments regarding:
 

• 1. Maintaining image quality without sacrificing speed

• 2. Optimization of memory usage for the accelerated video recording

• 3. Device protection against external objects

• 4. Power consumption, thermal regime, and powering

• 5. Alarm features, lighting control, and camera placement

• 6. Licensing issues

• 7. Additional visual standards support
   

Thus, the client gained a description of an elegant defect detection solution with server-free AI operation, which significantly unloads industrial networks. Also, the redesigned solution would simplify mounting and allow for avoiding errors during data transfer. 
 

A complete documentation packet includes a project plan and risk plan, a quote with future project estimation, an architecture description, and product cost estimation.
 

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Board procurement
• 2. Architecture design
• 3. Firmware migration
• 4. Components selection
• 5. Documentation creation
   

RESULTS
 

• 1. A complete assessment of product transfer efforts
• 2. The project on the product transfer is about to start

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies

• USB

Platform
 

• 1. ARM
• 2. Linux
• 3. Embedded

Industry

• Manufacturing

Project size

• 2 SW Engineers

Duration

• 4 months

HIGHLIGHTS

After years of successful PSA support of particle counting devices designed for cleanroom monitoring, the client contracted us for the development of its new generation. The main focus was on meeting the criteria of the modern world in terms of usability, functionality, and data integrity. Being a high-precision measurement tool, any enhancement for the device has to be done in view of its major requirements – to ensure the appropriate responsiveness and stability to work 24/7.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Release the next generation of the particle measurement instrument to meet the advanced market demands.

Project Objective

Extend functionality and upgrade UI of particle counter to provide intuitive and reliable operations control in compliance with high precision measurement requirements and data integrity standards.

SOLUTIONS

For the device to meet the requirements of the modern world, PSA designed a complex firmware to control operations for the new generation of particle counting device. Based on Qt, the upgraded UI allows for the following opportunities: 
 

1. Set sampling parameters, and execute sampling

2. See the actual state, configure the device, and run self-tests

3. Generate, save in PDF, and print reports

4. View & manage alarms, locations, and recipes

5. Control operations both locally and remotely due to USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet support

6. Choose language from 14 options

For the device to comply with standards for certification, we contributed to data integrity demands. 3-step access & NFC-based login were implemented to enhance security, whereas the opportunity to view up to 30k logs was to verify that data had not been changed. 
 

Starting from prototyping and moving through development, we implemented the new UI concept for simple air sampling management, and intuitive training using modern interfaces. We updated all UI elements and widgets, created mockups and user stories, and adjusted the interface to fit the new functionality. The device gained improved navigation capabilities, and a more intuitive look and behavior of the new screens and widgets.

To enhance usability, the PSA team implemented HMI both for:
 

1. The device with built-in display to provide portable particle measurement in the field
 

2. Web app for remote operation, continuous monitoring, and updates of devices

For the system to meet responsiveness requirements, we linked the interface with RTOS, defining the optimal way of data exchange to minimize latencies and optimize memory and CPU performance.

At the final stage, PSA engineers performed Acceptance Testing onsite. We ensured the complete operability of the modernized device and conducted training for the client’s development team in case of further modification to the source code within the components.

As a result, the client gained a more functional, secure, and user-friendly device with extended access opportunities, ready to be launched to market.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED

1. Requirements definition
2. HMI proof-of-concept
3. Architecture design
4. Specifications development
5. UI implementation
6. Software development
7. Qt optimizations
8. Quality assurance (onsite)

RESULTS
 

1. The new generation of the device has been launched to the market

2. International cleanroom certification standards meet

3. Reduction of human errors when using

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

1. HTML/DHTML

2. JavaScript

3. Angular

4. .NET

5. C/C++

Platform

Embedded

Industry
 

Environment
 

Project size

4.5 people

Duration

5 years

HIGHLIGHTS

In 2022, the PSA team took over the development of a shipping container monitoring product, and started enhancing it with new features. Leveraging the potential of integrated IoT infrastructure, our client is focused on further facilitation of the device deployment while strengthening data integrity and performance. To ensure maximized benefits, we provide flexible opportunities for the client to try out new ideas without breaking the budget.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Cost-effectively evaluate the possibility to facilitate product deployment and integration within multiple servers.

Project Objective​

With limited resources, deliver PoC of the solution to simplifying data transfer from breach detection devices to multiple servers while maintaining data integrity.

SOLUTION
 

To evaluate the concept, the PSA team created an MVP of a multiplexor (mux) – an app for transferring complete data from breach detection devices to a number of servers using the server communication protocol.
 

First, we modified the existing product architecture in Azure by fitting the mux there. Our engineers provided several connectivity options considering a more expensive option with private cloud enablement, and a less expensive option with no private cloud deployment. The app allows for seamless connection to:

1. The product app for shipping monitoring

2. 3-party system directly

3. 3-party system utilizing IoT Tartabit bridge as a mediator to simplify integration.
 

Second, our team developed an app with limited functionality, which allowed for the thorough evaluation of the basic concept. The solution works with the existing stateful and sequential TCP service, providing data tracking, quick data retransmission for better performance, and data retention in case of failure.
 

The delivered app contributes to data integrity by utilizing the unified protocol, and allows for facilitation of the deployment by excluding the need for unique provisioning in every device to particular server.
 

The client rapidly evaluated the PoC and leveraged it for investigation and testing of integration capabilities.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED

1.Requirements development

2. Infrastructure set-up

3. Architecture design

4. Software development

5. Functional testing

RESULTS

1. Time and money saved on concept evaluation

2. The app was considered to be utilized for investigation purposes

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies

1. Azure DevOps Server
2. TCP/IP
3. .NET

Platform

Server

Industry

Logistics

Project size
 

1 Software Engineer

1 DevOps Engineer

2 QA Engineers

Duration

4 months.

HIGHLIGHTS

Our client, a recently founded company, is working to establish itself as a top developer of machine vision products for production quality control. Enlisting the assistance of PSA, the company has developed a cutting-edge defect detection system leveraging neural networks for use in printing houses. Suffering a lack of relevant expertise, they asked PSA for additional support through the product manufacturing phase.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Finalize product prototype to prepare it for certification and further mass production.

Project Objective

Establish the end-to-end manufacturing process for 10 samples of the defect detection device to be used for trial operation.

SOLUTION

Having moved past the development stage of the Defect Detection Product, PSA prepared the foundational framework for all samples to be seamlessly manufactured. Our technical & management support included the following activities:
 

1. Components procurement based on the initial BOM, including processor modules and long lead components
 

2. Logistics management. Transferring the components to the manufacturing site
 

3. Documentation updates for production, defining errors and missing components
 

4. PCB assembly support, providing components’ replacement when missing
 

5. Final samples bring-up. Addition and adjustment of the light sources for the client’s needs

As an output, our client received 10 prototypes of the defect detection device to be used within the machine vision system at printing facilities. It allowed the client to launch their trial operation to maximize product potential, identify flaws, and create a strategy for further development.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

1. Components Selection & Procurement

2. Documentation Updates

3. Assembly Support

4. Assembly Support Improvements implementation.

RESULTS

1. Production and delivery of prototypes

2. Final BOM validated

3. Time and money saved on updates

4. Commencement of trial operation

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies

1. Jira

2. JavaScript

3. Python

4. C/C++

Platform

Embedded

Industry

Manufacturing

Project size

5 Software Engineers

Duration

16 months

FURTHER COOPERATION

Alongside our client, PSA is continuing work on further product development, evaluating the neural network's performance deployed in the device itself.

HIGHLIGHTS

Our client, a provider of internet audio products owned by a major automotive manufacturer, came to PSA with a request to develop a user-friendly car sharing app for corporate use. At the dawn of shared mobility, the client intended to perform a market test to investigate the sociology of car swapping and decide whether to invest in developing a similar service for public use.

CHALLENGE
 

Client Challenge
 

Run a pilot car sharing program in a controlled environment to assess the experience of swapping services.

Project Objective

Develop a multi-platform car sharing app for corporate use while considering frequently changing requirements.

SOLUTION
 

In tight cooperation with the client, we created a peer-to-peer (P2P) car sharing application, providing a convenient platform for swapping cars between the company’s employees for the short and long term. 

Running on Android, iOS, and Web platforms, the app provides the following functionality:
 

• 1. Register, log in, and set up user profiles
• 2. Select car by model, fuel, drive, and transmission type, personalized vehicle restrictions setting (ie. smoking, transporting pets, etc.),
• 3. Browse the history and schedule of availability, request, book, and confirm cars
• 4. Add vehicles to the pool
• 5. See the owner’s contact information
• 6. Get notifications of time starts and finishes
• 7. Document the condition of the car before and after the exchange

The PSA team performed the core development activities in parallel with the server backend and app interface design development on the client’s side. We structured the client’s concept by creating a use cases diagram and app architecture then defining requirements for interfaces, global types and structures within the software, and event processing. During development, we reviewed designs from the client’s side and performed testing and bug fixing, demonstrating strong collaboration. 

Aimed at investigation, the project has undergone 8 changes during development. We shared the client’s goals and have been adaptable to the project needs through conducting additional research, promptly reassessing terms, and re-calculating budget when needed. Thus, for instance, IE support and Facebook SDK were included in the app.

As a result, the client gained a simple and user-friendly car sharing application available on smartphones, tablets, and via the web. We also provided knowledge and technology transfer for the client’s team to refine and further develop the app internally.


DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements clarification
• 2. Architecture design
• 3. Software development
• 4. Interface design review
• 5. Project change requests implementation
• 6. Testing & debugging
• 7. Documentation creation.

RESULTS
 

• 1. Car sharing app completed

• 2. Market test run, and the required data was collected

​

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

1. 1. Angular
2. 2. Objective C

Platform
 

1. 1. iOS
2. 2. Android
3. 3. Java
4. 4. Web
    

Project Size
​

• 2.5 people
   

Duration

• 19 months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

PSA were contacted by a provider of comprehensive IoT solutions and products for fleet and fuel management. They had a vision of a new product for smart control of tank status and fluid level within, which would be appropriate for commercial scale. The main vector for them was to minimize production costs by leveraging ready-made components.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge

Create a low-cost product for remote control of tank fuel level.

Project Objective

Create the complete initial design for the fuel level monitoring system considering the tight production budget.

SOLUTION
 

The PSA team architectured a comprehensive hardware system for seamless remote detection of fuel levels in tanks. Сonsisting of sensors, a control unit, and solar batteries, the system is designed to provide reliable and cost-effective usage for both resting and mobile fuel tanks. 

The following system features were incorporated:
 

• 1. Sensing of fluid level, overfilling of the tank, and fuel leakages
   

• 2. Audial and visual alarm notifications 
   

• 3. LED-display for fuel level, power, and connection status
   

• 4. Communication with server via Wi-Fi, 3G and GPRS
   

• 5. Switch on/off and reset buttons
   

• 6. Simultaneous monitoring of up to 8 tanks by 1 control unit

For this project, the PSA team created a detailed system description, including its architecture, assembly guide, components requirements, product use cases, and all the functional and non-functional requirements for the system. This allows the client to proceed with seamless design, prototyping, and further manufacturing.
 

To support the low-cost design of the tank monitoring system, we conducted detailed market research and selected affordable and weather-resistant off-the-shelf components that require minimal adjustment to have the system completed. These components include:
 

• 1. Industrial-grade computer module based on Raspberry Pi
   

• 2. Communications board with US band 4G/LTE, GPS, and Wi-Fi
   

• 3. Enclosure
   

• 4. Battery
   

• 5. Solar panels
   

• 6. Equipment for mounting entire system with solar panels on a tank
   

In addition to the list of components with their possible design, PSA estimated the product implementation for 2k Fuel Tank Monitoring System units, including its design, prototypes, and production cost.
 

As a result, the client got all the documentation required for further product development and production  without technical and financial risks. The system contains all the components for management via the web, desktop, or mobile app.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

1. Market research
 

2. Requirements definition

3. Architecture design

4. Product specification creation
 

5. Components selection

RESULTS​

1. System ready for development and manufacturing

2. Technical and financial risks are minimized

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Platform

Embedded

Industry

1. Energy

2. Transportation

Project Size

6 People

Duration

1.5 months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

We were contacted by a leading food and agricultural company with global retail brand recognition. They intended to enhance the poultry production process by utilizing advanced analytics.

CHALLENGE


Customer Challenge

Improve business processes for poultry deboning and portioning departments.

Project Objective

Keep the client fully informed about business and production processes for poultry deboning and portioning.


SOLUTION
 

To have an opportunity to optimize processes, the client needed to have all relevant information on what’s going on in the enterprise. To provide this, we designed and developed a desktop application that automatically collects, stores, and analyzes the data from the production line for deboning and portioning, as well as relevant enterprise files.
 

The delivered app allowed the client to monitor:
 

• 1. Yield 

• 2. Faulty production

• 3. Safety incidents

• 4. Staff turnover

For the app to be used by quality engineers, enterprise analysts, and other interested staff, each user category was granted specific access rights. They can download the app to their devices and are authorized by login and password. The GUI of the app supports a touch screen as well. 

For the convenient monitoring of business processes, the app provides the following:
 

• 1. Generating and displaying reports in the form of charts

• 2. Printing the created reports

• 3. Search for selected data records

• 4. Input, modification, or deletion of the data records

Thus, the application allows the client to monitor productivity and efficiency indexes on a daily and weekly basis.


DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition
• 2. System architecture and design
• 3. Application development
• 4. Custom User Interface development
• 5. Functional testing
• 6. User Guide creation

​RESULT
 

• 1. Labor cost reduced by 50%

• 2. 70% less complaints on products quality

• 3. Profit increased by 10%
   

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. Seapine TestTrack
• 2. SQL
• 3. .NET
• 4. C#

Platform

• Windows

Industry
 

• 1. Foodtech
• 2. Manufacturing

Project size
 

• 2 people

Duration
 

• 4 months

SCOPE OF WORK


To develop a mobile application for Android 4.3 platform to display the results of measurements received from a personal dosimeter via Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE)

TECHNOLOGIES

• 1. Java
• 2. Android SDK
• 3. Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE)
• 4. XML
• 5. SqLite DB
• 6. JSON
• 7. Google maps API
• 8. Axure

TASKS

 

• ​1. Requirements Definition
• 2. GUI Design
• 3. Mobile Application Development
• 4. Functional, System and Integration Testing

PROJECT SIZE
 

• 4 person project
• 6 month duration
• Turnkey Development 

SCOPE OF WORK

Implementation of Bootloader for Atmel SAM D20 MCU to be used on a custom PCB with i.MX module, responsible for FW updates for both Atmel and i.MX FW.

TASKS
 

• 1. Develop Bootloader FW which performs the Application Update and Bootloader Update process
• 2. Provide API Healthcare with documentation for deploying, running and rebuilding developed FW
• 3. Integrate the new code into the current FW
• 4. Test the Bootloader on provided hardware
   

TECHNOLOGIES
 

• 1. C
• 2. Python
• 3. FreeRTOS
• 4. Linux
• 5. Atmel ATSAMD20 MCU
• 6. Atmel studio 7.0
  ​

PROJECT SIZE
 

• 1 employee
• 2 months duration. 

HIGHLIGHTS
 

Our client – a globally represented supplier of scientific instrumentation – involved PSA in their efforts to optimize the dosimeter calibration process that is executed using a range of radiation sources. Intending to launch a new generation of personal handheld dosimeters, they augmented the calibration equipment with a new device compatible with both existing and upcoming models of dosimeters. The crucial step of this optimization was to provide an opportunity for real-time remote monitoring and control of the whole calibration process for all types of dosimeters, including configuration, opening of the radiation source, and the transportation of dosimeters between irradiation stations.

CHALLENGE

Client Challenge
 

Reduce the costs for calibration of personal handheld dosimeters considering the launch of the new model.

Project Objective

Ensure precise and convenient calibration for multiple types of dosimeters while also increasing process performance.

SOLUTION
 

To provide comprehensive management of the dosimeter calibration processes, the PSA team developed desktop and web tools that allow for control of the augmented calibrating machine. In real-time, the application collects and sends data to dosimeters under calibration, the transportation system of the calibrating machine, and the irradiation source module, which contributes to the following functionality:
 

• 1. Radiation dose management for the particular types of dosimeter; open/close status for exposure source.
   

• 2. Establishment of position for dosimeters, and their moving between irradiation stations at the required direction
   

• 3. Adjustment of dosimeters’ settings in accordance with their response to exposure.
   

• 4. Delivery of calibration reports and provision of secure automatic data export to the centralized production management system
   

• 5. Studying the history of dosimeters calibration configuration, process, and results.
   

The PSA team designed the application from scratch starting with the complex architecture design, followed by implementing algorithms for dosimeters calibration, developing UI, and conducting onsite testing. During the project, we utilized real client dosimeters and IR readers, simulating doses and detector counts, and the imitation of the robotic system that  transports the dosimeters between irradiation stations.

To ensure performance is maintained in terms of data size increases, we connected the app to an SQL server. Also, our team implemented multi-tasking for the updated calibrating machine, which allows for simultaneous irradiation of several dosimeters. These features together with a responsive UI contributed to the ultimate performance and throughput of the system.
 

As a result, the threshold and sensitivity of the various types of client-produced dosimeters are set in adherence with the instructions of the PSA-delivered app. The client receives calibration verification, analysis, and reporting for every produced dosimeter, which helps verify the devices before sale. The high accuracy of calibration allows for the usage of personal handheld dosimeters for scientific, industrial, medical, and other purposes.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition
• 2. Architecture design
• 3. Software development
• 4. Algorithms implementation
• 5. GUI development
• 6. Functional testing
• 7. Integration & site acceptance testing
• 8. User and maintenance guide creation
   

RESULT
 

• 1. Productivity has doubled

• 2. Calibration costs have been reduced

• 3. Extendable to include future models
   

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technology
 

• 1. SQL
• 2. .NET
• 3. C#
   

Platform
 

• 1. Web
• 2. Desktop
   

Industry
 

• Environment

Project size​
 

• 2.5 people
   

Duration
 

• 19 months

HIGHLIGHTS

After the successful delivery of a number of projects, we continued cooperation with our client, a leading manufacturer and supplier of scientific radiation measurement equipment. For certification purposes, Electronic Personal Dosimeters (EPDs) have to be checked annually and calibrated if necessary. To perform calibration checks for dosimeters, the client needed a flexible and scalable tool that could interact with all the 3rd party irradiators used for this purpose.
 

CHALLENGE
 

Client Challenge
 

Simplify the process of issuing certificates for the multiple types of EPDs, including models currently in development.

Project Objective

Expand the functionality of the calibration-check system to ensure simple annual verification for various types of dosimeters, which allows for adding new devices and remote access.

SOLUTION
 

To ensure rapid and reliable dosimeter calibration checks, the PSA team developed a software solution that interacts with irradiators to perform these checks in real-time. It acts as a central repository for the EPD calibration and related data, providing an external interface to the calibrating system. The application allows for the following actions:
 

• 1. Choose a procedure for the calibration check from the list
   
• 2. Get procedure configuration parameters
   
• 3. Verify calibration check results for each EPD
   
• 4. Receive and print reports
   
• 5. Manage users, lists of irradiators, procedures, EPDs, and calibration check results

During the project, the PSA team solved the issue of scalability, thus allowing the delivered software to interact with the legacy, new, and prospective generations and types of dosimeters launched by our client and 3rd party irradiators. To promote scalability, we ensured the calibration check configurations include facultative elements that can run only if they are defined in the database.

Thus, the PSA-designed interface allows for:
 

• 1. Adjustment to capabilities of various irradiators, including various sources, dose rates, capacity, throughput, and levels of automation
   
• 2. Adjustment to the more advanced EPD concepts such as detector counter readings, detector gains, and partial doses
   
• 3. Compliance with application-dependant technical recommendations
   
• 4. Addressing specific issues that a customer might face.

​For the third-party irradiators to be seamlessly connected, we created APIs for the calibrating system. We simplified the integration process by utilizing the simulators for the maintenance database system and irradiators. 

We provided the client with all the necessary documentation for the system to be easily installed at any location globally. The documentation includes a User Guide, Administrator Guide, Deployment Guide, and Engineering Interface Specification.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Onsite requirements definition
   
• 2. Software design
   
• 3. API implementation
   
• 4. Database implementation
   
• 5. Web application implementation
   
• 6. UI development
   
• 7. Documentation creation
   
• 8. Functional testing
   
• 9. Acceptance testing

RESULTS
 

• 1. Calibration-checks are available for future generations of dosimeters with the use of various types of irradiators

• 2. Dosimeter verifications are performed faster

​TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. XML
• 2. Angular
• 3. SQL
• 4. NET
• 5. C#

Platform
 

• 1. Web

Industry
 

• 1. Radiology
• 2. Environment
• 3. Applied Science
• 4. EIoT

Project size
 

• 2.5 people
   

Duration
 

• 13 months

HIGHLIGHTS

Adaptive Micro Systems LLC is a cutting-edge Milwaukee based manufacturer of indoor and outdoor LED displays offering LED signage systems installed across the entire US and globally. They needed a software that  enabled  the Adaptive signs to control animations, motion backgrounds, and messages.

CHALLENGE

PSA recognized the potential for success in manufacturing modern software for the advertising industry. The goal was to create a system (a desktop application and sign player) able to set, schedule, and deliver rich media content that is seamlessly built into an LED billboard display which is “durable enough to stand up to years of harsh weather and demanding industrial environments, and deliver important visual information 2X brighter than any other electronic signage options.” We had to create an innovative media LED message software that is intuitive and efficient.

SOLUTION
 

After a comprehensive assessment of the project, we established a team of developers. With close collaboration they developed a high-quality system to satisfy the request of the client. The solution delivered by our team included the Ooh!Media desktop application for digital media content management and the ooh!Media Sign Player for rendering digital content.
 

One of the features we introduced within this project was the option of setting a schedule for displaying the message on a LED sign. The system supported video, images, and TrueType fonts capable of displaying the RSS information from the Internet. The custom UI was specially designed and developed for the ooh!Media app.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Software development (desktop applications).
• 2. Software localization (desktop applications).

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. XML
• 2. XSL
• 3 .NET
• 4. C#
• 5. C/C++

Platform

• 1. X86 32-bit
• 2. X86 64-bit
• 3. ARM
• 4. Windows
• 5. Windows CE
• 6. Embedded
• 7. Desktop
   

Industry

• 1. Entertainment
• 2. Industrial
• 3. EIoT
   

Project size
 

• 4 Team Members
   

Duration
 

• 10 Months

HIGHLIGHTS

In 2019 PSA delivered a board design - Raspberry Pi Serial Hat Platform (RPSHP) - for Palatiumcare Inc, an American leader in senior healthcare assistance. The entire scope of work consisted of two parts: platform prototype implementation and further update.

CHALLENGE
 

The primary objective of the Raspberry Pi project was to design a placement platform for the Netburner and Nano that would fit into a case with the existing X and Y footprint while also utilizing the original platform ports and inputs.
 

In order to provide enhanced technical functionalities, PSA engineers had to design an expansion card that connects to the Raspberry Pi 3 single-board computer via a 40-pin GPIO connector containing all of the following:

• 1. 2 additional RS-232 serial ports
   
• 2. Real-time clock
   
• 3. FRAM memory with SPI interface
   
• 4. Reset switch for configuration parameters
   
• 5. Miniature screen with I2C interface to display configuration information
   

• 6. Create a minimally modified case to fit the board according to specific measurements 
  
   

Other technical specifications provided were as follows:

 

• 1. Support for additional devices in the Raspbian operating system image
   
• 2. Support for the new Netburner configuration utility device
   
• 3. Modifications to the device case for outputting additional interface connectors
   
• 4. Reset switch for configuration and display

SOLUTION

To resolve technical issues, PSA specialists designed the entire device, including the electrical schematic diagram and layout of the expansion board. They also selected and purchased components for the assembly and delivery of 5 prototypes. The newly modified operating system of the device contained the necessary drivers and software modules to support additional new devices.
 

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED

• 1. Components selection and specifications review
   
• 2. Electrical circuit diagram design
   
• 3. PCB layout design
   
• 4. Mechanical design for enclosure and 3D modeling and 2D drawing creation
   
• 5. Prototyping and testing
   
• 6. Prototypes validation and design adjustments

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. PCB CAD
   
• 2. TCP/IP
   
• 3. Python
   
• 4. C/C++
   

Platform
 

• 1. Raspberry Pi
   
• 2. Linux
   
• 3. Embedded

Industry
 

• 1. Healthcare
   
• 2. EIoT
   

Project size
 

• 9 Team Members
   

Duration
 

• 8 Months

HIGHLIGHTS

Polimaster, a manufacturer of radiation measurement & detection instruments with a global presence in over 55 countries, approached PSA with a project requiring the development of an Android mobile application for a dosimeter.

CHALLENGE
 

The project was to develop an Android mobile application that would communicate with a wide list of dosimeters over Bluetooth.
 

The resulting application had to be able to receive and display real-time measurement data, store history and upload measured data onto NPNET or RadResponder servers, show tracking on Google Maps (GPS, mobile network), and share data over social networks (Facebook, Twitter).

SOLUTION
 

The PSA team performed design, development and testing of a mobile application on Android 4.3+ platforms to display the data received from a personal handheld dosimeter via Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE) protocol with a variety of personal dosimeters.
 

The final application allowed controlling the level of radiation and accumulated dose, saving the data and route map of the device movements within preset periods of time, and the capability to send the data to a remote server. In the event that the preset limit of radiation was to be exceeded, the application would initiate a sound alert.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition.
   
• 2. User interface design.
   
• 3. Support communication over Bluetooth 4.0.
   
• 4. Positioning support, integration with Google maps.
   
• 5. Implementation of storage of event history in various formats.
   
• 6. New devices discovery and pairing support.
   
• 7. Functional, system and regression testing.
   
• 8. User guide development in Russian and English.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN


Technologies

• 1. BLE
   
• 2. BT
   
• 3. Atlassian JIRA
   
• 4. XML
   
• 5. SQL
   
• 6. Java

Platform
 

• Android

Industry
 

• 1. Mobile
   
• 2. Radiology
   
• 3. Environment
   
• 4. Applied Science
   
• 5. Healthcare
   
• 6. EIoT

Project Size
 

• 9 Team Members
   

Duration
 

• 14 Months

HIGHLIGHTS

We were contacted by our regular customer – a leading provider of IoT and M2M connectivity equipment. Their cellular on-board diagnostics (OBD) device was expected to be implemented in vehicles, predominantly trucks, to help prevent accidents and detect incorrect driving. However, the system couldn’t perform updates via air, had poor functionality and connectivity capabilities, and lacked many parameters to be tracked.

CHALLENGE

Customer Challenge
 

Ensure a simple and available real-time monitoring of the vehicle fleet and traffic situation, as well as advanced EIoT analytics opportunities to prevent dangerous cases and optimize transportation expenses.

Project Objective
 

Enhance the ODB device to continuously detect problematic driving while supporting the requirements of a highly organized IoT ecosystem.

SOLUTION
 

Since the device was expected to process a large amount of driving data simultaneously, the system was built on ThreadX – the modern RTOS that supports multiple threads.
 

To prevent accidents and incorrect driving, the system was designed to detect excessive acceleration, sharp cornering and hard braking during vehicle motions. To reduce the cost of production without reducing the quality of the device, together with the client we decided to use only an accelerometer module without a gyroscope. Considering the lack of gyroscope and variations of the installation position of the device inside of a cab, we created a specific and highly complex algorithm for computing accelerometer data to calculate installed device orientation, movement vectors, and critical road situations.
 

To optimize the device and satisfy the requirements of the IoT ecosystem, we provided the system with the following functionality and capabilities:
 

• 1. Enhanced tracking capabilities;
   
• 2. Low energy consumption wireless communication;
   
• 3. Highest availability in difficult-to-reach areas;
   
• 4. Opportunity to update the device via the air. 

For this, we implemented support of the interfaces for GPS, LTE CatM radio, and Bluetooth. We also developed firmware to support the deployment of the existing OBD III Streamer device based on the Quectel BG96 module. We made a great effort here, since the module does not provide a built-in debugging possibility and usable firmware update procedure.

To provide communication between the device and the cloud, we implemented a central server communication logic. 

To ensure the system tracks location and performs diagnostics precisely, we performed production testing in about 1100 vehicles. Thus, we were sure that our client can guarantee full tracking and predictive maintenance of the whole vehicle fleet.


DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Protocols review and analysis;
   
• 2. Implementation of different interfaces and business logic;
   
• 3. Accelerometer data processing implementation;
   
• 4. Firmware development and implementation;
   
• 5. Testing and debugging.

RESULT

The updated device detects unsafe driving, can communicate wirelessly and collects all the critical data required for predictive maintenance.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. OTA
   
• 2. GSM
   
• 3. LTE-M
   
• 4. BT
   
• 5. GPS / Glonass
   
• 6. SMS
   
• 7. C/C++

Platform

• 1. Altera / Intel
   
• 2. ARM
   
• 3. STM
   
• 4. RTOS

Industry

• Transportation
   

Project size
 

• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 1 Project Manager
   
• 3 Software Engineers
   
• 1 QA Engineer

Duration
 

• 6 months

HIGHLIGHTS

We were contacted by a large international privately-held manufacturer and provider of irrigation products which are designed to minimize water consumption. They’ve been running a widget system on their control platform to provide their customers with data about current weather.

CHALLENGE

Customer Challenge

The widget system that was implemented on the platform did not allow their clients to get full weather info from different areas, and forced them to use other resources to monitor the areas that were not covered. The installed system showed the widget for only one particular zone, and displayed only a few basic weather parameters such as temperature and humidity. Thus, our customer risked losing their position in the market if they did not upgrade their system with new features.

Project Challenge
 

The initial purpose of this project was to develop a Web Widget for up-to-date Hyperlocal Weather information with regards to location, using an API provided by a 3rd party. Users of the controller should be able to add several widgets to the platform and see more weather info. Since the customer already had a widget system, our designer and front-end developer needed to fit the design into the fixed widget sizes.
 

After the start of the project, we realized that it would be nice for the client to validate the customer’s access to the widget and the information inside it. So, the challenge for the backend developer was to integrate an additional microservice with the initial software architecture. Thus, we had to create not just a specific widget, as planned initially, but an infrastructure that can be used by the client for adding any widget to the panel providing information from any 3rd party vendor.

SOLUTION

While developing this app we used an agile methodology, and the development model was a mix of waterfall and spiral models. The delivered solution consists of 4 main structural elements on a high level:

• 1. Browser-based frontend part adapted for desktop and mobile platforms
   
• 2. PC based backend core, API for interaction with frontend and cloud, and DB management services
   
• 3. Cloud-based data user and management service
   
• 4. 3rd party weather information service
   

The selection of the technologies was determined by the fact that we developed the add-on for an existing piece of software, so it was an Angular framework for the frontend and .Net for backend-related parts.
 

To put the system of interaction with the weather data provider into a separate module, we decided to use a cloud solution. As a result, we got a separate server that downloaded weather data from a particular resource and transmitted it to end-users, provided with security settings and a licensing system. Thus, we have designed an infrastructure that allows the client to create widgets, control subscriptions and payments.
 

Our developers have also performed engineering and unit tests of the delivered solution. Over 70 e2e test cases were prepared and executed by the QA team. The project code was then pushed to the customer’s repository for future merge with the main product codebase.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Building system infrastructure
   
• 2. Architecture design
   
• 3. New features implementation
   
• 4. Backend development
   
• 5. Frontend development
   
• 6. Integration and functional testing.

RESULT
 

The client received a system capable of displaying multiple weather widgets, allowing the operator to monitor up to 8 different weather parameters in various zones. Info in the widget system is presented in a readable form inside the in-app widget, split by hour, day and week. The solution supports automated and on-demand updates, cloud and local storage of historical data, and user validation.
 

Also, the client got a flexible platform for future implementation of different widgets which can obtain information from 3rd party vendors.
 

The delivered solution allowed not only to show the current state of the weather, but also to store, collect, and process data, turning the system into a full-fledged ecosystem of the Internet of Things.
 

Since the client sends solutions to more than 130 countries, it will not be difficult to internationalize the widget if necessary thanks to UI string values.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. Jira
   
• 2. GIT
   
• 3. GitLab
   
• 4. Angular
   
• 5. SQL
   
• .6. NET
   

Platform

• 1. OS platforms
• 2. Mobile

Industry
 

• 1. Environment
   
• 2. EIoT

Project size
 

• 2 Software Engineers
   
• 1 QA Engineer
   
• 1 Graphic Designer
   
• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 1 Technical Assistant
   
• 1 Project Manager

Duration
 

• 5 months

HIGHLIGHTS

PSA was contracted to deliver a quality control process monitor application for Perdue Farms, a major American food and agricultural company. This application was intended to collect data on the production line at chicken processing plants and display tracking results for poultry deboning and portioning processes.

CHALLENGE
 

The Business Improvement Process(BIP) application was designed to collect and store data on business processes, perform data trending, and display results in the form of various reports for plant production and quality control engineers. Vital data such as people, products and profitability by department was collected in order to improve the organization of business processes and planning.
 

The BIP application was intended for employee use, granting each authorized user access to the application and all of its features. The application allowed productivity monitoring and efficiency indexes for business processes, such as staff turnover, safety incidents, yield, and faulty production, both on a daily and weekly basis.

SOLUTION

After requirements collection and technical discovery, our development team designed the desktop application with a customized UI design specifically adopted to support touch screen operation. The user-assigned access to the app was secured with a login/password and access level mechanism. The application collected the data from data files and SQL databases, processed it and provided the ability to add, delete, edit and search data entries as well as the printable reporting feature (in the form of charts). 


DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition
   
• 2. System architecture and design
   
• 3. Application development
   
• 4. Functional testing
   
• 5. User guide creation.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. Seapine TestTrack
   
• 2. MS Project
   
• 3. SQL
   
• 4. .NET
   
• 5. C#
   

Platform
 

• 1. Server
   
• 2. Desktop
   

Industry
 

• 1. Foodtech
   
• 2. Robotics
   
• 3. Industrial
   
• 4. EIoT
   

Project size
 

• 8 Team Members

Duration
 

• 7 Months

HIGHLIGHTS

Livio, a subsidiary of the world leader in the production of both passenger cars and other industrial vehicles, turned to PSA to develop a Peer to Peer car sharing application (P2PCS).

CHALLENGE
 

The primary objective of this project was to deliver a convenient and intuitive mobile application that enabled Ford executives to exchange cars between them.
  

Some of the challenges of this project involved clarification of the objectives, evolving changes in daily tasks and continual discussions with the customer regarding the desired app features and user interface.

SOLUTION
 

The project entailed the development of a new mobile application for both Android and iOS platforms which would be utilized by Ford executives in their peer-to-peer car exchange program. The purpose of this application was to allow an executive to browse, request, book and confirm available cars with the option to provide detailed feedback about  their experience.
 

Since the objective was not clear initially, the PSA team often had to make sudden changes during the development process. The end result was the release of an application with the following features: car model selection, schedule of availability, fuel and drive type, as well as a personalized vehicle restrictions setting (ie. smoking, transporting pets, etc.). The system allowed you to document the condition of the car before and after the exchange, the amount of fuel used, and key transfer details. The app was released for both Android and iOS systems along with an available  browser version

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Development and analysis of technical requirements
   
• 2. User interface design and development
   
• 3. Functional, system and integration testing.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. JavaScript
   
• 2. Angular
   
• 3. Java
   
• 4. Objective C

Platform
 

• 1. ARM
   
• 2. iOS
   
• 3. Android
   
• 4. Mobile
   
• 5. Web

Industry
 

• 1. Mobile
   
• 2. Logistics
   
• 3. Transportation
   
• 4. EIoT
   

Project Size
 

• 8 Team Members

Duration
 

• 7 Months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

We were contacted by a producer of Workforce Management solutions for healthcare. The customer entrusted the PSA team with troubleshooting the device responsible for controlling access to medical premises, such as operating rooms, morgues, archives, and so on.

CHALLENGE

Customer Challenge
 

The access management system went out of service while performing updates, which allowed for violations and breaches of a medical facility’s security, and could endanger patients and staff.

Project Objective
 

Troubleshoot the access management system to ensure full-time access control to the medical premises, without risk of losing critical data and settings.

SOLUTION

To provide seamless firmware updating, we created a Bootloader for the customer’s controller hardware – Atmel SAM D20 microprocessor that would be used on custom printed circuit boards with i.MX module. Unlike conventional firmware reflashing procedures, we provided the possibility to restore the previous firmware versions, while backing up the application data as well.  

To deliver the project, we provided:
 

• 1. Designed and implemented binary communication protocol with integrity checking
   
• 2. Developed Bootloader firmware
   
• 3. Integrated the new code into the current firmware
   
• 4. Tested the Bootloader on provided hardware
   
• 5. Prepared documentation for deploying, running, and rebuilding developed firmware

During the development process, our team noted that the existing communication protocol is not secure enough, which can lead to critical data loss. Thus, we modified the communication protocol with the i.MX module from a template of the protocol emulator we developed for the testing procedure.


DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition
   
• 2. Firmware development
   
• 3. Software development
   
• 4. Testing procedures
   
• 5. Documentation creation

RESULT

The client got an access monitoring device which maintains 100% functionality while running updates and is fully adapted to the needs of medical facilities, considering security issues.

To deliver the solution we ulitized the following technologies:
 

• 1. C
   

• 2. Python
   

• 3. Free RTOS
   

• 4. Atmel ATSAMD20 MCU
   

• 5. Atmel studio 7.0

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• 1. Python
   
• 2. C/C++

Platform
 

• Linux

Industry
 

• Healthcare

Project Size
 

• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 1 Project Manager
   
• 1 Senior Software Engineer
   
• 2 QA Engineers
   
• 1 Technical Writer
   
• 1 Technical Assistant
   

Duration
 

• 2 months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

Kohler Inc., a leading manufacturer of residential generators, chose PSA for implementation of its Embedded Ethernet Library project. It was the first of many projects with this client which launched a long-term cooperation with PSA.

CHALLENGE

The Ethernet library had to be designed to provide a simple API for network communication and additional network services for easy remote configuration of the company’s products. The library was developed with the capability to be reused in the customer's products lineup, including both current and future models as needed. PSA also delivered an accommodating security mechanism for network data exchange.

SOLUTION

The project objective was to define and create a communication library that acted as an extension of an existing USB library which introduced transport and protocol layers.
 

The library encapsulated TCP/IP networking functionality and security for a residential power generator controller. Functionality of the library was designed to allow Kohler products developed on the NXP LPC2468 family of processors to add automatic configuration features and simplify remote configuration and administration of devices. The solution included a specific customer tool that provided monitoring and remote configuration of devices through TCP/IP protocol.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Design of Ethernet Library and Library API
   
• 2. Full integration with the custom USB KPDP protocol implementation
   
• 3. DHCP protocol integration
   
• 4. TCP\IP transport layer integration
   
• 5. USB library refactoring
   
• 6. Integration of security layer into the custom KPDP protocol
   
• 7. Integration and functional testing
   
• 8. Full source code review

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN
 

Technologies
 

• 1. Azure DevOps Server
   
• 2. USB
   
• 3. MS Project
   
• 4. TCP/IP
   
• 5. C/C++
   

Platforms
 

• 1. NXP
   
• 2. RTOS
   
• 3. Embedded
   

Industries
 

• 1. Smart Building
   
• 2. Energy
   
• 3. Industrial
   
• 4. EIoT
   

Project size
 

• 7 Team Members
   

Duration
 

• 9 Weeks

HIGHLIGHTS
 

A provider of electronics assembly and PCB design solutions for various industries had launched an animal thermometer specialized for veterinary use.

CHALLENGE
 

Customer Challenge
 

The existing thermometer was a high-cost option, and lacked the capability to automate and optimize temperature monitoring over the total head of livestock. Therefore, the customer company lost business to their competitors.
 

Project Challenge
 

The PSA team needed to create a lighter and cheaper version of the existing thermometer for animals and equip it with BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) support. Also, it was necessary to speed up temperature measurement by applying a predictive algorithm.
 

SOLUTION
 

To make the solution more affordable, we decided to reuse an already existing platform, including MCU, other hardware components and code sources. Our team updated the existing firmware to tune it for usage with new LCD and hardware buttons, thus providing a more cost-effective option.
 

To achieve the goal of the project we:
 

• 1. Realized a design for hardware, enclosure, and firmware for the specialized Animal thermometer, with a focus on reducing the overall Bill of Materials
   
• 2. Provided a small-sized, water-resistant, and ruggedized enclosure
   
• 3. Implemented fast temperature sensing and visualization features
   
• 4. Added calibration modes, battery management, and temperature pre-sets for different animals
   
• 5. Added a heater and two hardware control buttons for the Alarm Setting and Records View
   
• 6. Provided device configuration, data collection, storage, and transfer to mobile devices via Bluetooth
   
• 7. Maintained the measurements’ time and precision within the required range
   

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Hardware / Firmware / Industrial design
   
• 2. UI update with new features
   
• 3. Logic implementation
   
• 4. Quality Assurance
   

RESULT
 

The client got an updated animal thermometer with a water-resistant and ruggedized enclosure. The new version is smaller and cheaper than the previous one, and began to sense the temperature faster and visualize the data.

To deliver the solution we ulitized the following technologies:
 

• 1. OrCad
   
• 2. Keil Studio
   
• 3. C8051 Core
   
• 4. C
   
• 5. SolidWorks
   
• 6. Altium

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Industry
 

• Environment
   

Project Size
 

• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 2 Software Engineers
   
• 1 QA Engineer
   
• 1 Technical Assistant
   

Duration
 

• 7 months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

We were contacted by a supplier of wireless fuel management solutions, whose product line opens great opportunities for advanced BI for fuel distributors, commercial fleets, and automotive aftermarket companies. The Fuel Dispensing System is one of the client’s products that allows tracking of fuel consumption by users, which made the system widely used within private fueling stations. Since the solution contained 3rd party hardware, its production, maintenance, and customer support were too costly with the average set of functions. This forced the customer to “redevelop” the existing system to expand its functionality and reduce the cost of its components.

CHALLENGE
 

Customer Challenge
 

Reduce the cost of production of the fuel dispensing system hardware, while expanding the range of its use cases.

Project Objective
 

Develop an alternative fuel dispensing solution with extended functionality and more affordable hardware components.

SOLUTION
 

The PSA team developed the Fuel Dispensing System with access control and fuel level tracking which enables sharing of fuel tanks. To lower the cost of the components we designed and developed the customized hardware for the system which consisted of the following:
 

• 1. A fuel pump controller that is integrated with a pump, collects and processes the data from sensors, and sends it to the server
   
• 2. Control pad that allows for management of the system and provides visual and audio signals
   

Guided by the DFM approach, we optimized the cost of HW production by selecting reliable and efficient components and modules provided by our partner Toradex at affordable prices. Since the customer hadn't provided us with the components and suppliers they preferred, we utilized our own expertise and conducted detailed market research, defined functional requirements, and chose cost-effective and weather-resistant components that fully satisfied the functional requests.

We provided the Fuel Dispensing System with the following features:

• 1. Wireless (Bluetooth, WiFi) and cellular (4G) communication networks
   
• 2. GPS navigation
   
• 3. Support of large screen color displays 
   
• 4. Advanced technology in data management
   
• 5. Backward compatibility with existing hardware and software
   

To ensure this, we performed schematics, PCB-layout, and mechanical design for both the Fuel Pump Controller and the Control Pad, then developed firmware for them. After developing and flashing the system, the Control Pad freely communicates with the Fuel Pump Controller that communicates with the web server.
 

The Control Pad that we developed supports the LCD display, keypad, keyboard, and LEDs matrix. Access is controlled via iButton, Magnetic card, and RF Tags. We ensured its protection from intruders and operation in harsh conditions through tamper-proof housing.
 

To manage the Fuel Dispensing System and monitor fuel consumption, we developed a web configuration console that allows display of:
 

• 1. Online status of the Fuel Dispensing System
   
• 2. Internet connection
   
• 3. Fuel Pump Controller and the Control Pad status
   
• 4. Fuel level, overfill, and interstitial sensors status
   
• 5. White list of the users/vehicles
   
• 6. Pump motor status
   
• 7. Current and last counters
   

We ensured full control of the whole Fuel Dispensing System status and provided the users with data about the processor, allocated and free memory, OS and firmware versions, LEDs, system uptime, and app’s start count.  

At the output, the client got 5 tested PoC hardware units for the Fuel Pump Controller and the Control Pad which can be controlled and updated remotely. The system was accompanied by documentation that allows for launch to mass production.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED
 

• 1. Requirements definition
   
• 2. Hardware components selection
   
• 3. Schematics design
   
• 4. PCB development
   
• 5. Enclosure design
   
• 6. Firmware development and implementation
   
• 7. UI development
   
• 8. Bring-up and testing of prototypes
   
• 9. Product documentation
   
• 10. Continuous support

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN
 

Technologies
 

• 1. USB
   
• 2. XML
   
• 3. LwIP
   
• 4. C/C++
   

Platform
 

• 1. ARM
   
• 2. STM
   
• 3. RTOS
   
• 4. Embedded
   

Industries
 

• 1. Energy
   
• 2. Automotive
   

Project size
 

• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 1 Project Manager
   
• 1 Business Analyst
   
• 1 Hardware Engineer
   
• 3 Embedded Software Engineers
   
• 1 Technical Assistant
   

Duration
 

• 19 months

HIGHLIGHTS
 

We were contacted by a producer of a wide range of embedded processor modules and systems for industrial automation.
 

CHALLENGE
 

Customer Challenge
 

Expand the range of embedded processor modules to meet the high capability requirements of industrial automation IoT enterprises.
 

Project Objective
 

Deliver the module to satisfy the functionality request of industrial IoT enterprises, many of which have sophisticated infrastructure and lots of connected units involved in operational processes.
 

SOLUTION

For the embedded processor module to be industrial-oriented, it had primarily to:
 

• 1. Operate under the load of an industrial network
   

• 2. Perform real-time operations
   

• 3. Have a low power consumption to be affordable to utilize
   

• 4. Have universal implementation for various purposes
   

To meet these requirements, we had to provide support for various interfaces within the required board. Since the client had developed hardware for the future module solution, PSA needed to “bring up” the board by delivering the software part; namely, the Board Support Package (BSP) for it.
 

To make the board operable within overloaded industrial networks, we provided support of Real Time Gbit Ethernet TSN (PRU). To be applied for various purposes, we added support for a wide range of memory, audio, visual, and other interfaces, such as I2C (temperature sensor), LVDS, MCASP Audio, OSPI, and USB3.0. We expanded the functionality of the board by providing support for a touch display through an integrated graphics controller. For improving the safety and security of the future product, we implemented support of a Cortex R5 so-processor. All memory types which were implemented were non-volatile, enabling low power consumption and higher performance of the module as a result.
 

For the board to be ready for mass production, we also had to provide its fully secure boot. To implement all the mentioned features, we performed the following activities:
 

• 1. Porting drivers for components on the board
   

• 2. Configuring drivers and device tree to bring up board interfaces in u-boot and Linux 
   

• 3. Bootloader customization and secure implementation research
   

• 4. HW adjustment and modifications, resolving issues
   

• 5. Creation of Yocto meta layer to build a firmware package for multiple multi-architecture modules

The Board Support Package included an archive with source code, source code uploaded to the customer’s repository, and binary images for uploading onto an SD card or other bootable media.

DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED

• 1. Requirements clarification
   
• 2. Investigation and analysis of the customer’s board
   
• 3. Embedded software development
   
• 4. Firmware development
   
• 5. Documentation creation
   
• 6. Engineering testing and functionality verification
   

RESULT

The completed processor module entirely meets industrial IoT requirements and is ready to be put on the market.

TECHNOLOGY BREAKDOWN

Technologies
 

• C/C++

Platform
 

• Linux

Industry
 

• Industrial

Project Size
 

• 1 Technical Coordinator
   
• 1 Project Manager
   
• 3 Software Engineers
   
• 1 Technical Assistant

Duration
 

• 7 months