Baseline Software Development for the EVERGRIN project

The automotive industry is undergoing a rapid transformation with the integration of advanced technologies to enhance vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency. This thesis presents the development and integration of baseline firmware for a Vehicle Management Unit (VMU) that plays a pivotal role in harnessing the potential of modern vehicles. The core objective of my thesis work was to integrate a MATLAB model into hardware, enabling efficient communication with various sensors and signals through the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. There are several important points of the thesis work: - Hardware and software integration. This research successfully bridges the gap between the virtual world of MATLAB simulations and the physical reality of a vehicle's operating environment. By creating firmware that interfaces with a real-world VMU, this study enables real-time data exchange and decision-making. - CAN Bus Communication: The implementation of a robust CAN bus communication system is central to this research. This system enables the VMU to receive and process data from various vehicle sensors, such as the acceleration pedal. Bidirectional communication ensures timely access to critical information, facilitating more informed decision-making. - Task Scheduling: To ensure efficient operation, a task scheduler was designed to manage the reading of messages from the CAN bus, execution of the MATLAB model, and transmission of information via the CAN bus. Proper scheduling enhances the responsiveness of the VMU, contributing to safer and more efficient vehicle management. In conclusion, the development of a baseline firmware for a Vehicle Management Unit represents a significant step toward enhancing the capabilities of modern vehicles. By combining MATLAB simulations with hardware integration and effective CAN bus communication, this research contributes to the ongoing advancement of vehicle technology.