The short story
A global leader in industrial tools and equipment had built a large installed base of CAN-based tools used by customers worldwide. When launching a new generation of Ethernet-enabled controllers, the company wanted to offer a smooth upgrade path that would allow customers to continue using their existing CAN-based tools.
By using an OEM solution with ready-made products from Kvaser and RT-Labs, the company quickly established a solid platform to build their CAN-to-Ethernet application. This enabled them to extend the usability of legacy accessories with minimal effort.
The Challenge
The company needed a fast and cost-efficient way to connect existing CAN-based industrial tools to a new generation of Ethernet-based controllers. Developing a solution from scratch was not an option due to time and budget constraints. The goal was to enable reliable data exchange between embedded tool systems and backend systems without adding unnecessary complexity.
To meet these requirements, the company needed to develop a CAN converter that bridges their proprietary bus protocol from CAN to Ethernet. This allows accessories to connect to the controller over a local network instead of directly. The converter is designed to support tools with built-in controllers and interface with external accessories such as stack lights, I/O expanders, operator panels, and indicator boxes.
The Solution
The project was based on prefabricated hardware from Kvaser and a software platform from RT-Labs, including full real-time operating system support, drivers, and industrial network stacks. The only development required was a lightweight application layer for data conversion and transport between CAN and Ethernet. This modular approach significantly reduced complexity and risk, enabling the project to move from concept to production in record time.
Ready-to-use OEM platform
The OEM solution is built on proven hardware and software components, ready for immediate customization. Branding, overlays, and interface adjustments can be tailored to the end customer’s needs.
Certified hardware, tested from the start
The platform is pre-tested and compliant with key industrial standards, including CE, RoHS, EMC, and WEEE, eliminating time-consuming certification efforts.
Integrated industrial software stack
RT-Labs’ software platform includes real-time OS, industrial network stacks, and drivers, ready to be deployed with minimal configuration.
Supports remote firmware updates
Firmware can be updated directly over Ethernet, making maintenance simple and scalable, even after deployment.
Accelerated time to market
By reusing certified components and pre-integrated software, the development time was reduced by 80% compared to traditional approaches.
The Result
Thanks to the close partnership, the teams were able to move quickly from prototype to production. The resulting solution is now used in the field as part of the company’s industrial tool portfolio, enabling seamless communication in demanding environments.
Because this was an OEM solution, the product follows an impressive range of certifications, standards, and directives, ensuring compliance with industrial safety and communication requirements, such as CE marking, RoHS, EMC, and WEEE.
- i.MX28 processor from NXP
- Ethernet RJ45 female connection
- Four LEDs for power, communication, and mode status
- CAN I/O Bus male connection to accessories
- 24V M8 4-pin male power input
Convert CAN to any industrial Ethernet
Need to bridge CAN to Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, or other industrial protocols? It’s faster than you think. With our proven OEM platform, you can cut development time by up to 80% while ensuring industrial-grade reliability and compliance.
Tell us about your project – and let’s make it happen.