LCD paired with a single board computer for a Marine Peli Case application

CASE STUDY - EMBEDDED SYSTEMS DIVISION

Scope

C-Tecnics, specialists in the design and development of underwater imaging and video recording systems, required a paired LCD and single board computer solution to be integrated into a Peli Case as part of a revolutionary underwater camera monitoring system.

"C-Tecnics have been working closely with Impulse spanning back 7 years, in tailoring a computing solution consisting of an industrial motherboard, solid state drives and a custom display for several C-Tecnics ruggedised case systems. The support received from Impulse on new solutions and technical support is greatly appreciated and highly recommended."
Scott Younger, Technical Manager, C-Tecnics

Application

The new C-Vision system from C-Technics would be designed to allow remote monitoring of both inshore and offshore divers working in dangerous environments, with up to three streams being fed to remote health and safety experts who monitor the progress of the divers and ensure their safety at all times while they work. Onshore applications such as pipeline inspections, where remote video monitoring is essential, would also benefit from the C-Vision system. Made from injection-moulded Polypropylene copolymer, Peli Cases are high-impact, IP67 rated for dust and water ingress, and chemical resistant, and their overall ruggedness, range and reliability make them one of the most popular cases on the market.

Challenge

With the customer’s requirement for the screen to be situated in the lid of the Peli Case, it was not possible to use a Panel PC for a number of reasons. Peli Case lids offer limited depth, so a panel-mounted Panel PC would not fit. Furthermore, the volume of cabling for the amount of I/O needed for the cutting-edge C-Vision system would be too large to be stored in the lid, so, to keep with the OEM look of the C-Vision system and IP67 rating, an embedded board would need to be located in the base and paired with a separate LCD screen.

Design

To accompany the customer’s desired 15.6” LCD panel, our Design Specialists were tasked with identifying a suitable single board computer which would fit their requirement of high-power components with minimal heat production. A previous concept of the model used a 3.5” single board computer, but to minimise heat build-up and cost, the Impulse Design Engineers picked out a Mini-ITX single board computer which provided all the I/O the project needed, enough graphic power to support up to three simultaneous video streams, along with a reduced cost of ownership.

Build

Due to the specific layout of the Peli Case, it was imperative that the customer’s cabling requirements were adhered to. After receiving the relevant measurements of the enclosure, the Impulse Design Engineers created and standardised a cabling solution, ensuring the required length and configuration of the cabling did not conflict with the electrical threshold of the technology. Screening was integrated with the cabling to stop any potential noise from interfering with other components, and after thorough endurance testing the kit of parts was signed off and prepared for mass-production.

Support

The systems were designed and built to withstand the most rugged environments but, as with all our projects, we offered free, lifetime technical support, ensuring fast frontline support and quick turnaround on RMAs. Due to our large 35,000 sq. ft. facility, we were able to offer flexible call-off schedules, allowing C-Tecnics to benefit from purchasing economies of scale, fast turnaround of parts whilst maximising credit terms and product warranties.

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Impulse services used in this project

Design services

Build services

Support services

Analysis

Technology analysis and selection

We recommend a suitable hardware and core platform for your project based on our 360 Assessment with you

Prototyping services

Customise cable harness

Custom or market specific connectors and specifications can be created and supplied in-house with all embedded and industrial computing solutions

LCD & board pairing

We can pair our range of single board computers to your choice of LCD panel with a custom display BIOS and cabling for a fully customised HMI to your exact requirements

BOM compatibility testing

Compatibility testing is provided free of charge as a standard practice for all components within your BOM (Bill of Materials)

BIOS modification

We can personalise splash screens, additional features and persistent settings on your core computing platform for continuity and reliability

Customer software testing & integration

We offer preloading of your software to ensure compatibility and inclusion in the imaging setup process

Build services

Production & assembly

Our programmised system build routines are undertaken in our antistatic controlled engineering facility based in the heart of the UK

Soak & functional testing

Our advanced test services are designed to meet your specific needs including extended soak, full load, burn in and software testing

Build specification documentation

We supply as standard, detailed photographic and documentary evidence of our build process for all computer system solutions

Logistics services

Customer stock holding

We can become an extension of your own stock-holding with fast call-off or pre-agreed inventory for improved cashflow and JIT manufacturing (based on a project SLA)

Scheduled orders and call-offs

For OEMs requiring next day/Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery of custom systems with inventory/build management and pre-agreed delivery scheduling

Custom kitting

We offer custom kitting for your complex projects and installations requiring specialist and robust packing and labelling services

Advanced delivery

For more demanding logistics needs we can offer you our advanced delivery services including FORS, same-day and pallet despatch

After-sales services

In-country RMA service

Our in-country RMA service is available in over 26 countries and allows for localised returns and repairs, reducing your overall cost of ownership

After warranty repair service

Our after warranty capability offers you peace of mind beyond standard product warranties essential for long lifetime industrial system supply

Lifetime technical support

We offer complete 3rd line UK technical support, free of charge for the lifetime of your product

Get in touch

Our technical sales team are ready to answer your questions.

T: +44 (0)1782 337 800 • E: sales@impulse-embedded.co.uk