Research and development of modular hardware and matching software architectures

Context & background

CTRL Engineering develops advanced automation and control solutions for industrial applications, including custom testbenches, motion control systems, and data-driven engineering solutions. A key part of this work involves in-house hardware (electronics) development for edge and IoT devices. As these devices grow in complexity and variety, there is a growing need for more scalable and reusable approaches to both PCB design and embedded firmware.

Currently, hardware modules are often developed in a tightly coupled manner, limiting their reusability across projects. CTRL is eager to explore strategies for modularisation, both in electronics and in firmware, to build a flexible, scalable architecture for next-generation edge devices.

Thesis objective

The goal of this thesis is to research and develop a modular design architecture for hardware and firmware targeting edge/IoT devices. The student will investigate strategies for standardising modular PCBs — including efficient, low pin-count interfacing between a baseboard and interchangeable modules — and explore how firmware can dynamically support such hardware through autodetection, identification, and configuration. Based on this research, one or more proof-of-concepts or prototypes will be developed to validate the proposed architecture.

Research deliverables

• A technical research report evaluating modularisation strategies for both PCB design and embedded firmware.
• An analysis of communication protocols, power distribution, and mechanical/electrical interfacing strategies for modular boards.
• A documented firmware architecture supporting autodetection, identification, and dynamic configuration of connected modules.
• One or more proof-of-concept prototypes validating the proposed modular hardware and software architecture.

Research question examples

• “What are the most effective low pin-count interfacing methods between a baseboard and interchangeable hardware modules?”
• “How can firmware be designed to automatically detect, identify, and configure modular hardware components at runtime?”
• “What design principles best ensure scalability and reusability in modular PCB and firmware architectures for edge devices?”

Student Profile

We are looking for a motivated student with a genuine interest in electronics, hardware design, and embedded systems. Relevant skills and interests include:

• Experience or strong interest in PCB design and electronics hardware development
• Knowledge of embedded firmware development (C, C++, or similar)
• Familiarity with communication protocols (I²C, SPI, UART, etc.)
• Interest in modular system design, scalability, and hardware abstraction
• Ability to work independently and document findings clearly

Speciality: Electronics, Hardware, Firmware — 1 student position available.

interested?

We would love to hear from you! Please contact the dedicated CTRL contact person for this case. We can set up a meeting to get to know each other and discuss whether your wants and needs match ours.