SPUTNIC_IX - CAN Interconnected Cluster

Description:
SPUTNIC [Single-chip Processor Unit Together with Network Interface Chips] Projects The SPUTNIC Projects are based on the Motorola HCS12 single-chip processor (microcontroller). Three SPUTNIC projects (I, II, and III) were undertaken in 2002/03 and two more (SPUTNIC IV and V) in 2003/04.

Key Objectives:
The SPUTNIC systems include several Controller Area Network (CAN) interfaces - see for example www.interfacebus.com/ Design_Connector_CAN.html - and the purpose of this project is to investigate, design, and implement, a local clustering/interconnection mechanism to allow a number of SPUTNIC 'nodes' to be connected together. It is envisaged that a 'master' node would act as a gateway between an ethernet (TCP/IP) network and the CAN network. This project is likely to involve elements of operating systems, embedded systems, and of course network and communications. One project deliverable is envisaged to be a software library + API to allow other SPUTNIC projects to harness the capabilities of such a local interconnection network.