T113-S3 Motion Controller ODM Case Study: A Custom Control Solution for Industrial Automation

Project Overview

Industrial automation equipment requires reliable motor control, flexible connectivity, and stable long-term operation. For compact machines and cost-sensitive automation products, integrating these capabilities into a dedicated controller can help simplify system design and reduce development complexity.

This project explores a T113-S3-based motion controller ODM solution designed for small-scale industrial automation applications. The proposed architecture combines a Linux-based application processor with a dedicated MCU or motion control unit to support upper-level system management and real-time motor control.

KICKPI provides embedded hardware customization and software development services to help customers turn application requirements into production-ready control platforms.

Application Scenarios

The proposed controller architecture is suitable for applications such as:

• Conveyor systems and electric actuators
• Automatic doors and windows
• Small robotic arms and positioning equipment
• Packaging, dispensing, and labeling machines
• Auxiliary control systems for AGVs
• Compact CNC and industrial automation equipment

Depending on the application, the controller can be customized to support multiple motor channels, encoder feedback, limit-switch detection, remote communication, and local parameter configuration.

Technical Challenges and Solution

1. Separating Linux Applications from Real-Time Motion Control

Linux is well suited for network communication, configuration management, data processing, and user interface applications. However, precise pulse generation and synchronized multi-axis control may require more deterministic timing than a standard Linux application can guarantee.

The proposed architecture assigns high-level tasks to the T113-S3 processor running Linux, while a dedicated MCU or motion control unit handles time-critical operations.

This separation helps reduce the impact of Linux scheduling delays on motion execution and provides a more flexible foundation for industrial control software.

2. Integrating Industrial Interfaces

Industrial equipment often requires multiple communication and control interfaces. Depending on the final hardware design, the controller may integrate:

• Ethernet for remote monitoring and control
• RS485 and CAN for communication with external devices
• PWM and pulse/direction outputs for motor drivers
• Encoder inputs for position and speed feedback
• Digital inputs and outputs for limit switches and external signals
• ADC, RTC, and watchdog functions for monitoring and system management

Interface quantities, electrical characteristics, isolation, and connector configurations can be customized according to the project requirements.

3. Improving Reliability in Industrial Environments

Motor systems can introduce electrical noise, voltage fluctuations, and signal interference. A reliable design should therefore consider input protection, signal filtering, electrical isolation where required, power management, and appropriate PCB layout.

The software architecture can also incorporate fault monitoring, communication timeouts, watchdog recovery, and configurable responses to abnormal operating conditions.

For applications requiring continuous operation, validation can include extended runtime tests, communication stress tests, power-cycle recovery, and repeated motor operation.

ODM Customization Capabilities

KICKPI’s embedded ODM services can cover both hardware and software development, including:

Hardware development

• Custom PCB design and industrial interface integration
• RS485, CAN, encoder, PWM, and GPIO expansion
• Power supply design and protection circuits
• Industrial connectors, enclosure, and thermal design

Software development

• Linux BSP and device driver adaptation
• MCU firmware and communication protocols
• Motion control APIs and parameter configuration
• Fault handling, diagnostics, and OTA update integration

The final configuration depends on motor type, axis count, required control accuracy, interface specifications, and operating environment.

Conclusion

A T113-S3-based motion controller can provide a cost-conscious foundation for compact industrial automation equipment when combined with an appropriately designed real-time control unit and industrial interface circuitry.

Through customized hardware, embedded Linux development, and MCU firmware integration, KICKPI helps customers develop application-specific control boards for automation products, from prototype validation to production preparation.

Looking for a custom motion controller or industrial control board? Contact KICKPI to discuss your processor selection, interface requirements, software platform, and OEM/ODM development needs.