A new vision, control, and sensor solution for precision robotic applications has been unveiled by Sundance Multiprocessor Technology in the form of the Sundance VCS-1. This innovative robotics controller is now available in a custom enclosure, the PC/104-Blade, designed to eliminate the need for any fans and provide a rugged environment, according to Sundance. This makes it particularly suitable for harsh industrial settings where reliability and durability are paramount.
Key Components and Features
“The VCS-1 is a PC/104 Linux stack composed of two main components, namely the EMC2 board, which is a PCIe/104 OneBank™ carrier for a Trenz compatible SoC Module, and the FM191 expansion card that fans out the I/Os from the SoC to the outside world.” This modular design allows for flexibility and scalability, making it easier to customize the system for specific applications.
The SoC (System on Chip) provides standard connectivity options such as SPI, RS232, I2C, USB, GigE, and PCIe. It also features ARM-based processing, which is used to run Ubuntu Linux OS and ROS Melodic. This combination of hardware and software ensures that the VCS-1 can handle complex robotic tasks efficiently. The memory interfaces and programmable logic used for hardware acceleration and GPIO further enhance its capabilities.
The SoC can either be a Xilinx Zynq 7 Series (Dual Core ARM Cortex A9) or a Xilinx MPSoC Zynq Ultrascale+ (Quad Core ARM Cortex A53). This choice allows users to select the processing power that best fits their needs, whether they require a dual-core or a more powerful quad-core processor.
Applications and Use Cases
The Sundance VCS-1 is designed for a wide range of precision robotic applications. For instance, it can be used in automated manufacturing processes where precise control and real-time data processing are crucial. The rugged design of the PC/104-Blade enclosure makes it ideal for use in environments where traditional cooling methods like fans would be impractical or unreliable.
Another potential application is in the field of autonomous vehicles, where the VCS-1 can be used to process sensor data and make real-time decisions. The combination of ARM-based processing and programmable logic allows for quick and efficient handling of complex algorithms, which is essential for tasks like object recognition and path planning.
In the medical field, the VCS-1 can be used in robotic surgery systems, where precision and reliability are of utmost importance. The ability to run ROS Melodic on Ubuntu Linux OS ensures compatibility with a wide range of existing robotic software, making it easier to integrate into current systems.
For full specifications and purchasing options, jump over to the official Sundance website by following the link below.
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