Embedded software

Embedded software serves as the cornerstone of intelligence and functionality in modern embedded systems. As the complexity of these systems continues to grow, ensuring the utmost reliability of the firmware becomes an ever more challenging task.

At 3T, we specialize in the development of dependable Embedded Software that meets stringent real-time requirements and ensures the overall quality of the system. Our approach revolves around the creation of a robust architectural foundation, complemented by the integration of best practices, including static code analysis, unit testing, code reviews, and continuous integration.

Over the years, 3T has accumulated extensive expertise in embedded software development, spanning diverse application domains. We harness technologies such as real-time operating systems, embedded Linux, and programming languages like C++. Our core areas of excellence include communication protocols, signal processing, and control systems.

By partnering with 3T for your embedded software needs, you can be confident in receiving tailor-made solutions meticulously crafted to your unique requirements. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your embedded systems operate operate reliable and efficient.

The Sirius Pintuition System presents an innovative solution for breast cancer surgery. The procedure involves the insertion of a tiny titanium-encased magnet into the tumor using a needle. To assist the surgeon further, a specialized rod is introduced through a small incision in the breast. This rod detects the magnetic field and offers valuable guidance during the surgical process. Notably, this innovative approach enhances cosmetic outcomes and facilitates more breast-conserving surgeries.

Throughout the system's development, 3T spearheaded the electronic aspects, addressing challenges in accurately detecting and interpreting the magnetic field. Collaborating with a third-party provider, we devised sophisticated mathematical algorithms for precise positioning.

As a result, the device's screen now provides real-time information, displaying the distance between the rod and the magnetic seed in millimeters, proving to be a vital asset during surgery.

Download application report

The digital controller for a diesel Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) serves as an exemplary illustration of a complex embedded system with stringent real-time requirements. It meticulously monitors and analyzes over 100 input parameters, including frequency, voltages, currents, and their phase differentials. This data is indispensable for detecting power failures and regulating the speed of the diesel engine. Moreover, the controller seamlessly communicates with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) through Modbus TCP, overseeing the entire UPS control system.

A standout feature is its extensive logging capability, which records all inputs, outputs, and control signals. These logs can be accessed through the Ethernet interface, proving invaluable for analyzing and diagnosing issues in our customer's installation.

Additionally, the controller's ability to assess the quality of the utility voltage using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) adds another indispensable dimension to the UPS system's functionality.

A pyranometer, also known as a solar irradiation sensor, is a precise instrument used to measure the amount of sunlight reaching the earth's surface. Originally designed for meteorological purposes and used by operators with a thorough background in analog measurement and calibration techniques, the growing demand from the PV market prompted the need for a user-friendly, plug-and-play sensor that could seamlessly integrate into digital networks within minutes.

Given that the sensor essentially functions as a precision temperature sensor, any nearby heat dissipation could introduce errors. To address this challenge, we've developed an exceptionally low-power interface that ensures the accuracy needed for our clients' entire product range, including their top-tier meters.

MINT, short for Multi INTerface, is a versatile development tool known for its high-speed solution capabilities.

Inside MINT, you'll find an Intel Arria V SoC, a powerful fusion of an FPGA and a Dual-core ARM CortexTM-A9 MPCore. This unique combination harnesses the computing power of an FPGA and the adaptability of software on an ARM-based hard processor system (HPS). All interfaces are readily accessible from both the FPGA and the ARM-based HPS.

Learn more

The latest microcontrollers have opened doors to applications that were once deemed impossible. However, harnessing their full potential comes with its own unique set of challenges.

In a recent project, we implemented the acquisition and processing of many analog inputs on a low-cost microcontroller, a task that previously necessitated FPGA usage. To achieve this, we had to make optimal use of the microcontroller's peripherals (SPI, DMA) and different types of memory and of an RTOS to prioritize the different tasks performed by the microcontroller.

Our expertise spans from lower-level system software (device drivers, BSPs) and higher-level application software. With a strong emphasis on object-oriented design, we meticulously segregate different components, particularly the application-level and system-level software, ensuring a structured and dependable approach.

Wout Klaren, Software Competence Officer

3TEmbedded Software

Our Capabilities at a Glance

Interfacing with sensors and actuators
Complex digital signal processing on many channels and at high speeds by using the latest, most powerful microcontrollers
Control systems for time-critical applications
Designing complex algorithms using model-driven development

Real-time execution of software using an RTOS
Real-time industrial communication interfaces and protocols (CAN, EtherCAT, Modbus)
Optimal selection of the hardware platform for a real-time application (e.g., powerful microcontroller or SoC combining a CPU with an FPGA)

Industrial and medical applications
Implementation of extensive error detection and error handling
Ensuring high quality of the software by following best coding practices (coding standards) and employing techniques such as unit tests, static code analysis, continuous integration, regression testing and code reviews

3T B.V. (HQ)

Institutenweg 1
7521 PH Enschede

The Netherlands

Google maps

+31 53 433 66 33

info-3t-iac@kendrion.com

3T is a renowned Dutch electronic design house with over four decades of industry expertise. Our dedicated team of 100+ developers is wholeheartedly committed to delivering excellence and innovation in every project we embrace.
Visit our start page and learn more about who we are, our working principles, our customer solutions, and our core competencies.

Visit the 3T start page

Analog & mixed signal design is our most distinctive competence. If you have an application that requires precision sensor interfaces, real-time data acquisition, or a complex control circuit, 3T is the place to be. Being an AD and TI design partner, we have access to the latest technology.

3T has built up FPGA knowledge and experience since FPGAs were introduced in the market. As a design partner of Intel, AMD, and Microchip, we have access to the latest FPGA technology, such as the newest generation of Systems-On-Chip devices.

Controlling actuators and managing heat dissipation are crucial aspects of various applications, ranging from industrial automation and robotics to electronic devices and power generation. A control algorithm enables precise manipulation of physical systems while optimizing heat dissipation to ensure system performance, reliability, and components' longevity.

Model-Driven Development enhances productivity, reduces development time and costs, and improves maintainability by establishing a clear and traceable relationship between the real world (models) and the implemented system. For Model-driven development, we use the toolchains of MathWorks and ANSYS.

Using our in-depth knowledge of the developed application, the development of associated test systems and test strategies is a logical consequence. Depending on the situation, the concept of testing has a different perspective and effect on the development process.