Embedded Systems

Through our 360 Assessment, Impulse Design Engineers recognise the requirements of a device manufactured for outdoor use in harsh UK weather conditions, with consideration given to operating temperature range, display characteristics, processing power and power consumption. The requirement for OS and software stability are also noted, along with the need for ease of integration into the proposed chassis design. As this product is a new entry to the transport market, pricing stability during ramp in is also discussed.

The customer provides a 3D model of their proposed chassis design so that Impulse Design Engineers can add the electronic sub assembly into the model. A kit of parts, comprising enclosed PSU, cables harness, embedded single board computer, OS and stretched display, is provided to the customer for software testing. In the meantime Impulse fabricators create a sample metal housing and sub assembly BOM for the initial prototype, which is subsequently approved and a complete digital technical pack created to aid the customer with compliance testing.

To deliver systems to the high quality standards our customers have come to expect, Impulse Build Engineers follow stringent production processes in our dedicated production facility; an extremely clean and ESD controlled area with extensive environmentally controlled storage areas for components. A unique customer-specified test routine is followed to simulate the various electrical conditions typical in the transportation environment, and an extended soak test is then performed before the product is finally packed into custom-made cartons and despatched to the customer.

As the customer is an OEM with the need to support both existing installations and new customer sites, a quick turnaround on product despatch is required. A flexible 'call off' facility is arranged with minimum stock levels and alerts to ensure continuity of supply in all demand eventualities, and for units damaged or vandalised in the field, a fixed price 'renew' facility is agreed to recycle existing electronics into new mechanical housings. Complimentary technical support is provided for the full product lifecycle, along with a controlled and barcode tracked BOM to enable warranty and component traceability down to a site level. End of Life (EOL) and Product Change Notifications (PCN) are also managed by Impulse to ensure longevity and continuity of supply.