Until now, these types of devices had not been used to perform such demanding functions. However, Xilinx and IK4-IKERLAN have integrated a system-on-a-chip for critical applications that has met the stringent requirements imposed by TÜV Rheinland.
Until now, it was necessary to have two chips working in parallel within the same system when used in safety applications (i.e., those where the safety of people or high-value infrastructure depends on their proper functioning). This way, if one failed, the other continued performing the safety functions.
The new platform developed by Xilinx and IK4-IKERLAN allows this critical task to be performed with a single device. To achieve this, two functional safety channels have been implemented within the same chip. Thanks to this advancement, a more efficient solution has been achieved, requiring fewer components for manufacturing and, consequently, resulting in lower costs.
The usefulness of this development has been proven with a pilot project designed to locate anomalies in electrical power systems. It is a single-chip application that monitors the electrical flow of the network to prevent overvoltages that could jeopardize the integrity of an installation. This application has demonstrated to the certification body TÜV Rheinland that the device is capable of guaranteeing the safety of critical infrastructure such as an electrical grid.
Beyond this application, the platform is suitable for use in various demanding sectors such as automotive, rail, and medical.
