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Session 582

Implementing Simple Protocols in Multiple Processors Control Applications

Steve Hsiung, Tyson McCall, Corinne Ransberger Engineering Technology Department Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA 23529

Abstract

Using microprocessor/microcontroller in various control applications is not only one of the major topics in Engineering Technology curricula, but also of interest in industry applications. To accomplish it correctly the process of designing application programs starts from the individual module development through extensive testing, verification, and modification. Applying these developed modules in a useful manner requires the links and integrations that lead to the practical project implementation. Frequently, in students’ senior project designs and faculty’s research plans, the microprocessor/microcontroller resources become scarce or cause conflicts during the modules’ integration stage. To accommodate the shortfall of the resources and resolve any conflict state, several choices must be considered, such as the need to revise or totally rework the module, or apply the module with additional circuit design. This article presents a proven concept that implements the simple serial communication protocols in a multi-processor environment, which aims to keep the pre-developed modules intact with the least possible modification when they are integrated into the project.

I. Introduction

A project called Sparring Partner was implemented under a contract between a private company and Old Dominion University, Technology Applications Center in 2004. This project was to design and develop a training robot that is to be used in the boxing training exercises. Its original design relied on a single CPU (Motorola 68HC11) to control 8 DC motors, 8 position sensors, and some other peripheral and safety features. After the prototyping and examination of the mechanical functions, it was determined that the control circuits had to be revised. The requirements for this 68HC11 had grown to 9 DC motors and 18 position sensors with the same safety features. Due to the limitation of the 8 bit 68HC11 CPU, the processor’s resources were exhausted 6,7. The mechanical designers desired to

Proceedings of the 2005 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2005, American Society for Engineering Education

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McCall, T., & Ransberger, C., & Hsiung, S. (2005, June), Implementing Simple Protocols In Multiple Processors Control Applications Paper presented at 2005 Annual Conference, Portland, Oregon. 10.18260/1-2--15326