Development of a modular platform for embedded control systems laboratory coursework

A new hardware system for the ECE 4550 Control System Design lab is proposed. The current hardware is examined and its shortcomings are documented. Design guidelines for the new system are put forth and interfaces between hardware elements are defined. Four hardware elements are developed: a motherboard, an I/O daughtercard, a DC motor driver daughtercard, and an AC motor driver daughtercard. Each of these systems is examined in depth from a design decision standpoint as well as from the standpoint of the design guidelines promulgated earlier. Technical limitations for each system are disclosed and examined in detail.M