تطوير منصة صناعية مفتوحة المصدر باستخدام المتحكم الدقيق ATMega328P

DEVELOPMENT OF AN INDUSTRIAL ATMEGA328P MICROCONTROLLER BASED ON OPEN-SOURCE PLATFORM

Abstract

Microcontrollers are used widely now days in different applications, such as home automation, device control, wireless sensor network, and also for industrial applications. Generally, the microcontrollers that used in industrial application must have a number of properties to fit with industrial enviroment, such as reliability and robustness.
One of the most common microcontrollers platforms is the Arduino, which is an ATMega based microcontroller. There are a number of industrial microcontroller platforms that is based on Arduino or ATMega chip due to its number of specifications like efficiency and simplicity. Among them we mention: M-DUINO5858, Iono Uno, Controllino, Arduino Industrial 101, Industruino and Ruggeduino-ET. However, there are several advantages and disadvantages in the mentioned products, which highlight the map of the problem statement and the proposal of this thesis.
This thesis analyses the current products and does a cross section of the best properties of these products. Mainly rubust connection for input/output wires, additional envelope case. Additionaly, addressing the limitations which are lack of antivibration mechanism, decreasing drop voltage in power and processing, increasing output load power. Furthermore, some problems in programming. Hence, this work can be used as a guideline to propose a new ATMega based microcontroller platform with the best combination of features.
As an output of this work, a highly adaptable open-source platform, which is referred to with name of “Kerduino”, is designed and implemented. The design process is cross number of stages from simulation then schematic and PCB design untill 3D printing case. This product has been developed as an open-source to engage the community in the future development process and to support its sustainability.
Comparative results revealed the distinctive attributes of the Kerduino comparted to general industrial board specifications. More specifically, the device power supply is improved, as well as the mechanical properties of the device are improved too, by comparing with Arduino practically, and comparing with the enhanced industrial platforms theoretically. Finally, the cost is considered as an important factor of Kerduino design.
Furthermore, this research sets the stage for future explorations and developments in the field of industrial automation and control systems.