The Role of Embedded Systems in 2024
Embedded systems are at the core of modern technology. The tiny chip within your smartwatch tracking your heartbeat and sleeping patterns, self-driving cars powered by a complex constellation of processors and sensors, and countless other marvels are all the workhorses of embedded systems. They are silent and ubiquitous, impacting our daily lives in many ways.
By simple definition, embedded systems are special computing systems dedicated to performing specific tasks discreetly embedded within larger devices. They are called “embedded” because they exist within a larger mechanical or electronic system.
This article is a valuable resource for prospective embedded system engineers to help them understand what embedded systems are, how they work, their types, and their various applications, especially in this era of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
What are Embedded Systems?
Embedded systems are small computers that are embedded within larger devices or machines. They are designed to perform particular tasks and are often found in everyday devices that we use, such as Wi-Fi routers at home, network printers at offices, IP cameras in the streets, traffic lights on roads, smartwatches, drones, and even the toys our children play with.
Embedded systems can vary widely in their user interface (UI), ranging from traditional graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to headless systems. Headless systems operate without a graphical interface and often rely on other means of interaction, such as remote or command-line interfaces. For example, some embedded devices, like digital thermostats, may have no user interface. On the other hand, others may feature minimal UI elements such as buttons, LEDs, or touchscreen controls.
Embedded systems are unique because they are designed for a specific purpose. They have limited resources, like memory and processing power, and often run on real-time operating systems that prioritize responsiveness over complex features.
According to MarketsandMarkets, the embedded system market is projected to reach $116.2 billion by 2025, driven by ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, the Internet of Things, and the demand for high-level processing chips.
How Do Embedded Systems Work?
Embedded systems are not entirely different from other computer systems; they work almost like them. In fact, they are fundamental to computer systems.
Embedded systems receive input from the environment through sensors or other input devices, e.g., a radio receiver. Depending on the application, these inputs can include data from sensors such as temperature sensors or motion detectors.
The input data in the embedded system is processed by its processor, which can be either a microcontroller or a microprocessor. This is accomplished by executing embedded software (firmware) programmed into the system, where specific algorithms and tasks are carried out to make decisions based on the received input.
Once decisions are made, the embedded system produces output to control the external environment. This output may be sent to actuators, which are devices that perform physical actions. Examples of actuators include motors, solenoids, valves, or any other devices that can change the state of the system.
In many cases, embedded systems need to communicate with external devices or other systems. This communication can involve sending and receiving data through various interfaces such as communication buses (UART, SPI, and I2C) or wireless protocols (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
Choosing the right communication channel depends on the specific application of the embedded system. High-speed buses like SPI and UART excel in data transfer rates, but often at the expense of increased power consumption. I2C, on the other hand, offers a more power-efficient solution but may compromise on bandwidth. Wireless protocols like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi introduce flexibility but consume more power than wired counterparts.
These processes continue in a loop as the embedded system continually interacts with its environment. This repetitive cycle allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and perform its designated function.
Embedded systems frequently employ power management strategies to enhance energy efficiency. One such approach involves the system entering a low-power mode during periods of inactivity and reactivation when processing or input/output operations are required.
Characteristics of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems have various characteristics that distinguish them from general-purpose computing systems. Let’s look at some of these characteristics.
Deep Hardware-Software Integration
Embedded systems exhibit a symbiotic relationship between hardware and software, unlike the modular design of general-purpose computers. This tight integration allows for optimized performance by directly tailoring software to the available hardware resources, maximizing efficiency and functionality within specific constraints.
Dedicated Functionality
Embedded systems are built to excel at a single, well-defined task. Their design revolves around a focused goal, which can be seen in devices like digital thermometers reading temperature solely or in traffic light controllers managing intersections efficiently. This specialization contrasts with the versatile nature of general-purpose computing systems.
Real-Time Response
Many embedded systems operate in real-time environments, requiring immediate reactions to external stimuli. This necessitates swift data processing and rapid decision-making, as seen in anti-lock braking systems in cars instantaneously adjusting wheel pressure or in industrial robots responding to sensor feedback in real time.
Resource Efficiency
Embedded systems operate under resource constraints, utilizing limited processing power, memory, and storage. This focus on efficiency stems from their specific tasks and cost-effectiveness priorities. Examples include wearable fitness trackers operating with low power consumption or microcontrollers in appliances prioritizing efficient memory usage.
Communication Capabilities
While some embedded systems operate independently, many leverage communication capabilities to connect and share data with other systems or the cloud. This enables features like remote monitoring in industrial automation or data aggregation in smart home devices, expanding functionality beyond their individual tasks.
Types of Embedded Systems
Mobile Embedded Systems
Mobile embedded systems are characterized by their compact size, portability, and battery-powered operation. These systems are designed for dynamic, on-the-go use. Smartphones are good examples in this category, integrating many embedded functionalities like sensor-based data acquisition, communication modules, and multimedia processing.
Networked Embedded Systems
Networked embedded systems are distinguished by their connectivity to networks. They generate outputs intended for other systems or cloud infrastructure. Examples include point-of-sale (POS) systems transmitting transaction data, home automation systems interacting with cloud platforms for remote control, and network devices like routers facilitating communication within connected networks.
Standalone Embedded Systems
Standalone embedded systems execute dedicated tasks independently without reliance on external systems. Calculators performing mathematical operations and MP3 players dedicated to audio playback demonstrate the self-contained functionality of these types of embedded systems.
Real-Time Embedded Systems
Real-time embedded systems prioritize time-sensitive operations. They are crucial in applications demanding immediate responses to external stimuli. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) in vehicles fall in this category because they require real-time analysis of braking conditions for swift and precise wheel pressure adjustments.
Applications of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems are versatile and can be applied across various industries. The performance of these systems has also evolved significantly, given the ongoing advancement of AI and machine learning. Let’s explore some of the diverse applications of embedded systems.
Automotive Industry
Embedded systems are applied in modern automotive innovations, particularly in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
These systems rely on specialized microcontrollers, sensor arrays (LiDAR, radar, ultrasonic), powerful ASICs, and sophisticated algorithms like convolutional neural network (CNN) for object recognition and Kalman filters for sensor fusion. This enables real-time data processing and decision-making, ultimately contributing to improved safety, reduced accidents, and the potential for autonomous driving in the future.
Healthcare
Embedded systems also have a plethora of applications in the medical industry. Devices like pacemakers and insulin pumps are prime examples, delivering life-saving therapies with remarkable accuracy and consistency.
These devices feature ultra-low-power microcontrollers like the MSP430 series, ensuring years of operation on a single battery. Sensor arrays, including accelerometers for activity tracking and biosensors for real-time health monitoring, enable continuous data collection and analysis.
Additionally, custom encryption modules protect sensitive patient data, ensuring privacy and security. Sophisticated signal processing algorithms like FIR filters and wavelet transforms translate raw sensor data into insights, paving the way for optimal therapeutic interventions and improved patient outcomes.
Consumer Electronics
Embedded systems power intelligent features in many consumer electronics. Smart home devices, like thermostats and voice assistants rely on synchronized hardware and software for complex tasks and decision-making.
Microcontrollers like Arduino handle real-time data processing and management. Sensor modules provide environmental data, while protocols like Zigbee and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) guarantee reliable and efficient connectivity.
Furthermore, machine learning algorithms like TensorFlow Lite analyze user preferences for personalized experiences and improved functionality, though not all devices incorporate this level of intelligence. However, robust security and privacy considerations are crucial to protect user information as devices collect and transmit data.
Industrial Automation
Automation has significantly enhanced industrial efficiency and productivity, largely influenced by embedded systems. These systems, encompassing everything from agile robots to complex factory setups, seamlessly connect and coordinate, revolutionizing manufacturing processes.
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are central to this transformation. Powered by powerful microcontrollers, like those from Atmel AVR and Siemens SIMATIC, PLCs manage and monitor industrial processes with real-time precision. They rely on proximity sensors and encoders to gather critical data.
High-speed communication protocols like PROFINET and EtherCAT ensure smooth integration into existing industrial networks, enabling efficient data exchange and coordinated actions.
Further process optimization is achieved through advanced control algorithms like Model Predictive Control (MPC) controller and Proportional, Integral, Derivative (PID) controller. These algorithms fine-tune process parameters, minimizing waste and maximizing output in industrial automation.
Conclusion
This discussion has revealed the pervasive impact of embedded systems in modern technology. While this understanding is a solid foundation, further exploration into the embedded system ecosystem is crucial to understanding its interconnected components, from low-level hardware to real-time software.
For those ambitious and super-smart engineers aspiring to actively contribute to the embedded domain, an exciting opportunity awaits you at embedUR. As a leading force in embedded systems technology, we provide a perfect environment where passionate engineers like you can transform your ideas into reality. Join us today to explore the frontiers of embedded technology and make a lasting impact on the future.
