An airborne platform data handling system

Abstract

This thesis project aims to follow up on previous work regarding the choice of microprocessor hardware for a small unmanned airborne platform. The project will involve building a basic microprocessor/microcontroller system which can be used for software development in the future and also create software and documentation so that a basic "framework" is available for future work on the same platform. The first decision will be n the choice of the peripherals and bus interfaces required by the system, so that the rest of the design uses components suitable for this. This part of ,the project involves choosing between Ethernet, CAN and I2C as on board buses and evaluating them for reliability, data rates, cost, ease of expansion, power consumption and complexity. The second aim is to select the microcontroller and support hardware to be used and obtaining it from the appropriate sources. A custom development board will be designed and built in order to gain familiarity with all the hardware needs, any pitfalls and problems and precautions that need to be taken. A software "toolchain" for programming and code development will be obtained. Both the networking and hardware selection must be as "future-proof' as possible, that is sure to be suitable for use in several years' time as the project is expanded. Thirdly, code should be implemented to interface with suitable I/O devices such as analogue to digital converters and standard RC servo motors. An example program using as many features as possible of the development system should be written as a reference for future users.