However, we’ll also be interfacing many of the common modules & sensors on our way through. That’s why in the following tutorials we’ll be more focused on the microcontroller programming and we’ll discuss each of the modules in detail to understand the underlying mechanics. In fact, most MCUs chips have datasheets that are between 200-2000 pages long! Each module within these small chips can have a documentation that is 25 pages long on average. On the other hand, a very simple microcontroller will typically have a datasheet that is no less than 100 pages long. A typical sensor or actuator may possibly have a datasheet associated with it that can take no longer than 10 pages. There is no doubt that the ♜ or the embedded computer is the most important part of these components as it handles almost everything. It also interfaces all sensors to collect all the needed data for a robust controlled behavior and also communicates with the operator ( you) via the RF module to pass your commands to the vehicle which will follow them. Central Computer Microcontroller This is the brain of the system that handles all computations implemented in the control system mathematical model. It’s the bottleneck of the whole system which can definitely tell for how long can this machine fly in the air. DC Power Source Batteries The rechargeable power source used for drones. Actuators 4 x Brushless Motors These are the actuators that cause motion for this vehicle.
These electronic circuits are pre-built and packaged devices that are being sold as an electronic driver solution used for brushless motors.
External Memory On-Board additional memory for data & settings storage Drivers Circuitry ESCs Electronic Speed Controllers. Used for communicating with the control station. Used for control or data transfer RF This modules adds a Radio Frequency connectivity to the vehicle. Modules WiFi This modules adds a WiFi internet connectivity to the vehicle. Compass This sensor is used to measure the heading angle of the vehicle which is very helpful for controlling its orientational motion. In order to keep its balance and plan for smooth maneuvering.
Such as angular rates, tilt angle, and acceleration in 3 axes. It’s typically used to get information about the static/dynamic properties of the vehicle. IMU An IMU is an inertial measurement unit. GPS This sensor is used to get the coordinates information of the vehicle at any instance of time. We’re only concerned with the electronic embedded system which has the following components Sensors Camera Electronic sensor used for imaging and video recording. Well, this aerial robot consists of some mechanical & electrical parts. Let’s consider the Drone for example.Ī typical drone will have an internal structure as shown in the diagram below. Now, we’ll consider one of the previous embedded devices examples to have a closer look at its main components.
You should also know that microcontrollers are not the only option out there for embedded solutions/devices, but MCUs are our main interest in this series of tutorials. The computers being embedded in these devices are small microcontrollers (MCUs) or also abbreviated as ♜.
We’ve also mentioned numerous examples of embedded devices applications.