INDUCT offers a wide range of implementation services, from Matlab-code to machine code. If your platform of choice requires a programming language or specific knowledge we do not have in house, we will use one of our partner companies. INDUCT is also a certified National Instruments partner. At INDUCT we think it is essential that the designers of the algorithm are involved in its implementation. This is the only way we can guarantee the quality of the final results.
Simulink or LabView code
We regularly deliver our algorithms in Simulink-code (or m-files). The customer can then compile the Simulink-code to his platform using for instance the Real-time workshop of the Mathworks. For rapid prototyping we often use LabView code, which enables us to rapidly test new algorithms. We also have our own rapid prototyping hardware available, which can deal with a.o. digital & analog I/O and CAN.
C-code
If required, we can code your algorithm into C-code. This way you have our guarantee that the algorithm you saw in the rapid prototyping test is identical to the one in your commercial implementation.
Standard computer
For some applications a standard computer can be used (with Windows, Linux or Mac OS). For instance to perform an end of line test before a machine leaves the factory, we can use a standard computer with some extra measurement cards. The software will in most cases be written in LabView, since this allows for the fastest development. Upon request other alternatives can of course be considered.
NI hardware
The optimal hardware depends on the complexity of the code and the number of machines sold per year. This can range from a single-board RIO over industrial controllers such as FieldPoint and the Compact RIO to a PXI system. The advantages of using National Instruments hardware are:
- the complete system is thoroughly tested
- the implementation effort is significantly reduced
- your hardware is supported, world-wide
At INDUCT we have experience with all these systems, and can help you make the right choice for your application. We also offer application support on our solutions implemented on the hardware.
PLC hardware
INDUCT always aims at using the most cost-effective hardware, taking into account the design and implementation effort as well as the production cost. If a PLC is the best choice, this is what we will use. We have experience in the most common languages for PLC programming.
DSP
National Instruments supports BlackFin DSPs as real-time target. This means that the high-end LabView-code can be transferred onto a DSP with one mouse click. You get all the power of a DSP, without the tedious, low-level programming. Moreover, you can use the same program on your DSP as you have used during the rapid prototyping test.
Microcontroller
It is also possible to compile LabView code to ARM microcontrollers. You can get the low-price of a microcontroller, without having to invest in a long development trajectory to code the algorithm into your microcontroller.
Hardware
For some solutions more than computing power alone is required. The DSP or microcontroller may have to be built onto a PCB. External sensors or actuators may be required. For INDUCT also these aspects are part of the design, and thus we can also take care of their implementation. Of course third parties are used whenever appropriate.
