Programming the AURIX Microcontroller Through Simulink: A Framework for Rapid Prototyping and Comparison with Speedgoat Systems

Development speed is a critical factor in the industrial world. The time and money required to deploy and test a prototype can significantly impact the final product's market value. This thesis investigates the potential of utilizing the AURIX microcontroller for rapid control prototyping, focusing on its efficiency and flexibility compared to specialized industry tools like Speedgoat target machine. The thesis begins with an introduction to the hardware devices, highlighting the key differences between FPGAs and microcontrollers. This is followed by an analysis of the code generation output provided by Simulink's Embedded Coder support package. A major emphasis will be placed on the integration of custom code into the code generation environment, as well as the process of leveraging the AURIX multicore architecture within Simulink. To evaluate the rapid control prototyping capabilities of the AURIX microcontroller, practical experiments are conducted. These tests include the control of a Buck converter and the conversion of a Speedgoat-dependent setup, which aims to stress test power switches destined for use in the automotive world. A comparative analysis is also performed between the microcontroller and the Speedgoat system, focusing on the development process and highlighting the differences in model structure between the two devices. The results of this thesis will provide valuable insights into the potential of the AURIX microcontroller for rapid control prototyping and its suitability as a replacement for traditional prototyping methods.