Electronic development

Thinking ahead. Finding better solutions.

We develop analog/digital and mixed signal circuits covering all project steps from conception to series production. We always use state-of-the-art tools to live up to the demands of the competition.

An integrated and optimized workflow from schematic to simulation and layout through to mechanical tuning enables efficient development and short time-to-market. Prototypes and small series are assembled and manufactured in-house.

We develop firmware on almost all existing microcontroller platforms. In this process, our focus is on ARM architecture. However, we also work with PIC, HC08 and other systems.

We use the latest tools and methodologies for static code analysis. Due to our expertise and experience with software modules, we are able to work with almost all common communication interfaces (e.g. CAN, SPI, I²C, SDIO, USB, Ethernet).

We work in partnership with processor manufacturers, first and foremost, STmicro and Microchip. We always use the latest Microsoft technologies in our developments. Quality, testability and reusability are our primary development goals.

Development projects

We develop microcontroller firmware for home appliance electronics. These are mainly series control electronics for hobs (radiant heating and induction) and cooker hoods. The software is designed in such a way that complete product ranges with corresponding variants can be easily mapped.

State-of-the-art sensor technology, such as infrared or capacitive touch sensor technology, enables extensive operating concepts with menu structures and detailed setting options for the end user. Our experience in HMI (Human Machine Interface) from automotive engineering produces coherent and intuitive operating concepts.

Our skills and experience:

  • Infrared sensor technology for touch operation
  • Capacitive touch sensor technology for single sensors and sensor matrices with multiplex operation
  • Control of induction generators
  • Diagnostic communication on various bus systems typical for household appliances such as (DBUS, MBUS, LIN etc.)
  • Software development for functional safety
     / IEC60730 Class B
  • Implementation of remote control solutions using Bluetooth technology or radio transmitters (433 / 868 MHz)
  • Realization of complex control concepts
  • Optimization of power consumption in standby mode

Automatic testing technology for household appliance sensors

For the testing and calibration of position sensors for use in household appliances, an automatic testing method was developed in close cooperation with our customers. Areus developed a control software based on an industrial computer. Precise, spatially homogeneous and temporally constant magnetic fields for sensor calibration can be generated via a controlled current source. An air conditioning unit was also incorporated to provide the necessary temperature balance.

The actual calibration data are calculated from the measurement data obtained using statistical methods and programmed into the microcontroller using the firmware of the position sensor. In this case, the software controls the programming device fully independently, loads the firmware and calibration data, and programs both into the sensor’s controller.

Our references