Real-time reconfigurable SoC for process control

Real-Time (RT) embedded control applications require a skilled balance between HardWare (HW) and SoftWare (SW) competencies. This paper aims to use a methodology based on novel Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating embedded processor cores using RT kernel. This methodology has been applied to the implementation of motor control algorithms, in order to enhance both flexibility and determinism. Various SW/HW architectures have been contrasted in terms of speed/area. Implementation results demonstrate successfully the capacity of implementing, in high-level coding, RT complex control algorithms. The flexible design flow can be readily applied to any control algorithm with minor adapting.